Child Dental Benefit Schedule (CDBS)
The Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) commenced on 1 January 2014 and provides access to benefits for basic dental services to around 3 million children Australia-wide aged 2-17 years.
The total benefit entitlement is capped at $1,000 per child over a two calendar year period. The CDBS has a means test, which requires receipt of Family Tax Benefit Part A (FTB-A) or a relevant Australian Government payment.
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.
Many of our practices accept the CDBS, search a practice near you to find out if your local dentist is one of them.
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Children’s Dentistry
Children’s dentistry is quite literally the dental treatment of children, aged anywhere from toddler to teen. Although children may not need dental treatment that can be as complex as some adult dental treatments, e.g. implants, crowns and bridges etc., it is crucial that your child starts seeing their dentist early in their life to prevent dental related issues from arising. Developing positive oral hygiene habits from a young age can often be the difference between a positive or negative experience with their oral health.
What dental work does my child need?
Most children’s dentistry is preventive. Modern dentistry puts a strong focus on teaching good habits regarding brushing and flossing, seeing your child regularly to monitor and maintain their ongoing oral health and providing fissure sealants or other protective measures. Fissure sealants basically form a protective barrier on your child’s tooth, filling in the crevasses on the chewing surfaces of the teeth. This shuts out food particles that could get caught in the teeth, causing cavities. The application is fast and comfortable and can effectively protect teeth for many years. Of course if your child is experiencing more serious dental concerns your general dentist can either provide treatment or refer you to a specialist, however these are the most common dental services for children.
What age should my child start seeing the dentist?
Technically, once teeth start coming through in your child’s mouth you can start to take them to the dentist. Firstly, for promotion of great oral health but secondly, to help them create a positive association with their dentist and create a good relationship with the whole team so that they develop a positive outlook to their future dental visits. This will also allow for your dentist to monitor oral function, normal development and cleanliness and if necessary, provide advice on areas to improve.
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Hygiene Services
Maven Dental Group hygienists are highly trained clinicians who are enthusiastic about educating patients on the most effective ways to keep their teeth and gums healthy and long-lasting. They will advise you on all aspects of dental hygiene, including the use of toothbrushes, electronic aids, dental floss and inter-dental brushes.
There are two simple steps to good oral hygiene and healthy teeth and gums; regular visits to your Maven Dental Group dentist and dental hygienist, and good home care.
Poor oral hygiene can lead to a number of health concerns, some of them extremely serious if left untreated.
Some signs to look for are:
What will happen if I have poor oral hygiene?
Research shows a clear link between periodontal disease and the following medical conditions:
- Cardiovascular disease. Increased risk of stroke and heart attack
- Premature birth with low birth weight in babies
- Increased risk of pneumonia, particularly in elderly patients
How often should I see my dentist or hygienist?
For most people, to maintain healthy teeth and gums, it is recommended you visit your clinician and dental hygienist twice a year.
What will my dentist or hygienist do?
Your dentist and dental hygienist will examine your mouth to assess the overall health of your teeth and gums and to look for any signs of disease (see below for more information).
He/she will then do a professional clean and polish using a combination of modern techniques. This process removes any bacterial deposits and plaque from above and below the gum surface. Once the plaque has been removed, your teeth will be polished, leaving them feeling smooth and fresh.
Your dentist or dental hygienist will then show you how to care for your teeth at home, and will recommend the correct products for you to use.
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