Children's Dentistry
Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) in Darwin
Compass Dental Care in Parap accepts CDBS for eligible children aged 0–17. Up to $1,158 in dental benefits over two years for check-ups, cleans, fillings, and more.
What Is the Child Dental Benefits Schedule?
The Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) is a federal government program that provides eligible children with access to Medicare-funded dental care. The program covers basic dental services — routine check-ups, X-rays, cleans, fluoride treatments, fillings, and extractions — up to a benefit cap of $1,158 over a two-calendar-year benefit period.
CDBS is designed to help families access essential preventive and restorative dental care for their children without the full cost of private dental treatment. It is not a bulk-billing scheme — the dental practice charges its standard fee and families claim the applicable rebate from Medicare.
At Compass Dental Care in Parap, we accept CDBS and work with families to make the process as straightforward as possible. We provide a clear cost estimate before any treatment, explain which items are covered under the schedule, and process claims efficiently so you know exactly what you will need to pay.
What Does CDBS Cover?
Examinations
Comprehensive check-ups to assess your child's oral health, identify any issues early, and plan treatment.
X-rays
Dental X-rays to detect decay between teeth, assess root development, and monitor jaw growth.
Scale and Clean
Professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar build-up and polish teeth — the foundation of preventive care.
Fluoride Treatment
Topical fluoride application to strengthen tooth enamel and reduce the risk of cavities in growing children.
Fissure Sealants
A protective coating applied to the biting surfaces of back teeth to prevent decay from forming in the grooves.
Fillings and Extractions
Restorative treatment for cavities and removal of teeth that cannot be saved — covered when clinically necessary.
Note: Orthodontic treatment, cosmetic procedures, and hospital costs are not covered under CDBS.
Who Is Eligible?
Children aged 0 to 17 are eligible for CDBS in a calendar year if they (or their parent or guardian) receive an eligible Family Tax Benefit Part A payment — or certain other qualifying government payments — at any point during that year.
Eligibility is determined by Medicare, not by the dental practice. You can confirm your child's eligibility through:
- Your Medicare online account via myGov
- The Express Plus Medicare app
- Calling Services Australia on 132 011
You can also ask our front desk team at our Parap clinic to check eligibility for you using your child's Medicare card details when you arrive.
CDBS at Compass Dental Care, Darwin
At our Parap practice, we make children's dental visits as positive as possible. A good experience at the dentist early in life builds habits and attitudes that carry through into adulthood. We take the time to explain what we are doing in age-appropriate language, move at a pace your child is comfortable with, and celebrate every visit as a win.
Happy gas (nitrous oxide) is available for anxious children who need a little extra help relaxing during treatment. It is safe, mild, and wears off quickly — most children can go straight back to school afterwards.
We are conveniently located in Parap Village, close to the Parap Markets, with free on-site parking. Saturday morning appointments from 8:30am to 12:30pm are available for families who find weekday appointments difficult. We welcome children from across Darwin and surrounding suburbs including Bayview, The Gardens, and Darwin City.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Compass Dental Care accept CDBS?
Yes. Compass Dental Care in Parap accepts CDBS. CDBS is not bulk billed — patients pay for treatment and claim their Medicare rebate. We process HICAPS claims on the spot where possible. Call (08) 8995 9530 to confirm your child's eligibility before booking.
How much is the CDBS benefit?
Eligible children receive up to $1,158 in dental benefits over a two-calendar-year benefit period. The benefit covers examinations, X-rays, cleans, fissure sealants, fillings, and extractions. Orthodontic treatment and cosmetic procedures are not covered.
Who is eligible for CDBS?
Children aged 0 to 17 are eligible if they (or their family) receive Family Tax Benefit Part A or certain other government payments during the calendar year. Check eligibility via myGov, the Express Plus Medicare app, or by calling Services Australia on 132 011.
What services are covered under CDBS?
CDBS covers examinations, X-rays, scale and clean, fluoride treatments, fissure sealants, fillings, root canals on baby teeth, and extractions. Services must be clinically necessary. Cosmetic procedures and orthodontics are not covered.
Is CDBS bulk billed at Compass Dental Care?
No. CDBS is not a bulk-billing scheme. We charge our standard fee for each service and patients claim the applicable Medicare rebate. We will always provide a clear cost estimate before any treatment so you know exactly what to expect.
Related Services
Book Your Child's CDBS Appointment
Compass Dental Care accepts CDBS at our Parap clinic. Saturday mornings available. Free on-site parking at Parap Village.
