Planning your visit
Medicare bulk billing – Child Dental Benefits Schedule
Newport Family Dentist bulk-bills eligible children under the Medicare dental scheme for children, the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS), and provides children’s dentistry in Newport, VIC.
Dental care for children
Preventive care
Check-ups, cleaning, fluoride and fissure sealants help protect teeth. Your dentist recommends care for your child’s needs.
Early intervention
Your dentist checks for decay and other concerns, then explains treatment such as fillings when needed.
Orthodontic evaluation
We can assess your child’s bite and discuss whether further advice or referral is needed. Orthodontic treatment is not covered by CDBS.
Education
We explain brushing, cleaning between teeth, food choices and habits that affect oral health. Ask about sports mouthguards when relevant.
Behaviour management
Tell us about any worries or additional needs. We discuss ways to support your child and whether options such as happy gas are suitable.
Emergency care
Call for advice about dental injuries, toothache or swelling. Our emergency care page explains urgent symptoms and what to do.
Is my child eligible for the Child Dental Benefits Schedule?
Children aged 0 to 17 for at least one day of the calendar year may qualify if they are eligible for Medicare and they or their family receive an eligible government payment. Services Australia decides eligibility.
For a two-calendar-year benefit period starting in 2026, the cap is $1,158. Unused first-year funds can be used in year two if your child remains eligible; any remaining funds expire after that period.
CDBS covers eligible basic dental services. It does not cover orthodontics, cosmetic dental work or dental services in hospital. See current CDBS coverage.
We bulk-bill eligible services within the available benefit cap with your child’s Medicare details and signed consent. We discuss costs for uncovered services or treatment above the remaining balance before proceeding.
How to book your child’s dental visit
Call (03) 9399 3399 or use our online booking system. Provide your child’s Medicare details so eligibility and the remaining balance can be checked.
Frequently asked questions
Is my child eligible for the CDBS?
Children aged 0 to 17 for at least one day of the calendar year may qualify if they are eligible for Medicare and they or their family receive an eligible government payment. Services Australia decides eligibility. Check your child’s eligibility and balance through Medicare before the visit.
Do you bulk-bill the CDBS?
Yes. For eligible children we bulk-bill CDBS services, so you pay nothing for those services up to the benefit cap. We need your child’s Medicare card details and a signed bulk-billing consent. If treatment would go over the cap or isn’t covered, we discuss the cost with you before going ahead.
How much does the CDBS cover?
For a two-year period starting in 2026, eligible children can claim up to $1,158. The cap depends on the year their first eligible service occurs. Unused first-year funds can be used in year two if eligibility continues; any remaining funds expire after that period. Ask us to check your child’s remaining balance.
Care and appointments
What does the CDBS cover?
CDBS covers eligible basic services such as examinations, X-rays, cleaning, fissure sealants, fillings, root canal treatment and extractions. Item and timing limits apply. It does not cover orthodontics, cosmetic treatment or dental services in hospital. Before treatment, we explain what is covered and any costs you may need to pay.
When should my child first see a dentist?
Arrange a first dental visit when your child’s first tooth appears or by their first birthday, whichever comes first. The dentist checks their developing teeth and gives advice about cleaning, food, drinks and fluoride. Tell us about any worries so we can plan the visit with you.
Can my child have happy gas?
Happy gas is nitrous oxide mixed with oxygen, breathed through a small nose mask. It may help an anxious child while they remain awake. The dentist assesses suitability and explains risks, consent and costs first. Ask the team whether any sedation charge is covered by your child’s available benefits.