If you’re a parent in Australia, you already know how quickly the cost of raising kids can add up. Between school supplies, sports fees, and the never-ending grocery list, dental bills can sometimes feel like that extra pinch nobody asked for. Thankfully, the government has put a system in place to make things a little easier on families—the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS). And in 2025, the benefit amount sits at a generous $1132 over two years.
Now, if you’re scratching your head wondering how exactly this works, who’s eligible, and what treatments are covered, you’re in the right place. Let’s break it down in plain English, with a bit of conversation, so you know exactly how to use it without all the confusing fine print.
What Is the $1132 Child Dental Benefit?
The Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) is a government initiative that helps cover basic dental costs for kids aged 0 to 17 years. Instead of parents carrying the full weight of dental expenses, eligible families can access up to $1132 worth of dental treatments spread across two calendar years.
Think of it like a bank account, but instead of cash, it’s dental coverage. Once your child uses part of the allowance, the balance reduces until it runs out. And if you don’t use the full amount within the two-year period, it simply expires—so honestly, it’s a “use it or lose it” deal.
Who Can Get It?
Eligibility is pretty straightforward, but let’s spell it out:
- Age: The child must be between 0 and 17 years old.
- Medicare: They must be eligible for Medicare.
- Family Payments: At least one parent, guardian, or carer must receive a relevant government payment like Family Tax Benefit Part A or certain other allowances.
If your child ticks those boxes, you’re most likely in. To be fair, the system is designed to help families who could use a little financial relief.
What Treatments Are Covered?
The great part is that the $1132 benefit doesn’t just cover check-ups—it goes much further. Here’s a quick snapshot of what’s included:
| Treatment | Covered by CDBS? |
|---|---|
| Dental Check-ups & Exams | ✅ Yes |
| X-rays | ✅ Yes |
| Cleaning & Fluoride | ✅ Yes |
| Fillings | ✅ Yes |
| Extractions | ✅ Yes |
| Root Canals (basic) | ✅ Yes |
| Orthodontics (braces) | ❌ No |
| Cosmetic Dentistry | ❌ No |
As you can see, the focus is on essential and preventative care. If you were hoping the CDBS would help pay for braces, whitening, or cosmetic work, that’s not on the menu. On the flip side, everyday treatments that keep your child’s teeth healthy are definitely included.
How Do You Use the Benefit?
Here’s the simple version:
- Check Eligibility – You’ll usually get a letter from Services Australia, but you can also check through your Medicare online account or the Express Plus Medicare app.
- Book an Appointment – Find a dentist who accepts CDBS (most public and many private dentists do).
- Give Consent – Before treatment, you’ll need to sign a form agreeing to the costs.
- Medicare Covers It Directly – No awkward out-of-pocket surprises for eligible services, as the dentist claims directly from Medicare.
Honestly, once you’ve done it once, it’s smooth sailing after that.
Why This Matters for Parents
Dental health isn’t just about a bright smile—it ties directly to your child’s overall health. Tooth decay, if left untreated, can affect speech, eating, sleep, and even confidence. Having $1132 worth of cover every two years means parents don’t have to delay treatment because of cost concerns.
To be fair, not every family will use the full amount. Some kids may only need a basic check-up and clean. But others may require fillings, X-rays, or extractions, which can quickly add up. That’s where this benefit really proves its value.
Key Things Parents Should Remember
- The $1132 resets every two years. If you don’t use it, it’s gone.
- The coverage is per child, not per family. So if you’ve got two kids, each has their own separate benefit.
- Always ask your dentist upfront if the treatment is covered before signing consent.
- Orthodontics and purely cosmetic procedures aren’t included, so budget separately if that’s on the horizon.
Final Thoughts
The Child Dental Benefits Schedule is one of those programs that genuinely helps families, especially with the rising costs of living. $1132 may not sound like a fortune at first glance, but when you start tallying up dental visits, it’s a lifesaver.
So, if your child is eligible, don’t let it sit unused. Book that check-up, get those X-rays done, and keep their dental health on track. Because honestly, prevention is always cheaper—and less stressful—than dealing with big dental problems later on.
FAQs
Q1: How much is the Child Dental Benefit in 2025?
It’s $1132 over two calendar years, per eligible child.
Q2: Does the benefit cover braces or orthodontics?
No, orthodontics and cosmetic treatments aren’t covered.
Q3: Can unused benefit amounts roll over beyond two years?
No, the balance expires at the end of the two-year period.
Q4: How do I check if my child is eligible?
You can check via your Medicare online account, Express Plus app, or by calling Services Australia.
Q5: Do all dentists accept CDBS?
Most public dentists and many private clinics do, but it’s always best to confirm before booking.