The indexation amount of dental benefits payable for dental services provided under the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) will increase at the start of the coming calendar year from $1,026 to $1,052 for 2023-2024 relevant two-year period.
The indexed cap rate will apply from 1 January 2023 until 31 December 2023.
However, the cap amount for the two-year calendar period commences in the year in which the child first accesses services. So, for example, if a child first accessed benefits in 2022 the 2022-2023 cap of $1,026 applies. If a child first accesses benefits in 2023 the 2023-2024 cap of $1,052 applies.
The CDBS provides individual benefits for a range of services including exams, x-rays, fillings and root canals (it excludes orthodontic or cosmetic dental procedures), for children aged 0-17 years whose parents receive Family Tax Benefit Part A or a relevant Australian Government payment.
Provided dentists are registered with the Dental Board of Australia and hold a Medicare provider number, they can provide services under the CDBS but before any treatment commences the eligibility of the child for the CDBS must be confirmed and the remaining amount of funds in their allocation must also be checked.
This can be done online at .
