Frequently asked questions

What does a dental check-up include?

Each check-up appointment includes a comprehensive oral examination, removal of plaque and calculus, diagnostic x-rays (If required), preventative fluoride treatment and a dental care plan. We also provide information to patients about the importance of maintaining great oral health. Our services are provided by highly trained staff in a fun, relaxed environment to ensure every patient has a great experience visiting the dentist.



Am I eligible for CDBS and how do I claim?

The Department of Human Services assess a child’s eligibility from the start of each calendar year.

To be eligible, you or the child must be claiming one of the following benefits: Family Tax Benefits-Part A, Parenting Payment, Abstudy, Youth Allowance, Carer’s Payment, Disability Support Pension, Special Benefits or Double Orphan Pension. If eligible a notification is sent to the child or the child’s parent/guardian either electronically, or by post. To enquire if your child is eligible, please contact Medicare on 132 011. Once your child’s forms have been completed, we will individually check each child’s eligibility to see if treatment can be bulk billed through Medicare.

Routine checks are performed throughout the year to determine newly eligible children. Most children will be notified of their eligibility at the beginning of the year.

What is the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS)?

The CDBS provides individual benefits for a range of services including examinations, x-rays, cleaning, fissure sealing, fillings, root canals and extractions. Benefits are not available for orthodontic or cosmetic dental work and cannot be paid for any services provided in a hospital.

Eligible children will have access to a benefit cap of $1,000 over a two calendar year period.

To be eligible a child must be aged between 2-17 years and their family must receive Family Tax Benefit Part A or a relevant Australian Government payment.

Families can check whether their child is eligible for the CDBS by contacting the Department of Human Services. General information about the program can also be found on the Department of Human Services website.



Why is my child not eligible for the CDBS?

The eligibility for the Free Dental Service is administered by the Department of Human Services – Medicare.

Medicare advise Teeth N Smiles who is eligible, we do not make the determination.





How long does eligibility last?

Once a child has been assessed as eligible, they are eligible for that entire calendar year even if they turn 18 or stop receiving the relevant government payment. However, they must be eligible for Medicare on the day the service is provided



Can your service be claimed if we have private health insurance but my child is not eligible for CDBS?

Yes, depending on your level of cover most private health insurers, provide two free check-ups and cleans per family member each year. Our team will organise full payment for the appointment after the service, an invoice will be sent to you to claim back part or all of the cost through your private health fund - depending on your type of cover.



How qualified are your staff?

Staff at Teeth N Smiles are all highly qualified, experienced individuals who are registered with Australian Health. Our staff meet all the requirements of the Practitioners Regulation Agency (PRA) on service delivery. All staff providing the service have up-to-date current registration, police checks and medical malpractice insurance, copies of which can be provided on request. In addition, all dental staff carry photo identification tags which display their working with children number.



How do we store and use information collected on the website?

We comply with the Australian Privacy Principles which are available for viewing on the Australian Government AIC website. All documents and records will be kept in accordance with these principles.



Are you insured?

Teeth N Smiles maintains relevant public liability, professional indemnity and workers compensation requirements. Copies are available on request.