Time to read : 4 Minutes
Parents know only too well that the costs of kids’ dental check-ups and treatment really add up. But the costs can turn into a health and financial crisis further down the line.
A survey of 25,000 people by the Australian Dental Association has found recurring factors contributing to infant and child tooth decay.
These include:
drinking high sugar beverages such as soft drinks and fruit juice
not visiting the dentist from an early age
not accessing free, government-funded dental entitlements.
The survey also uncovered a big misconception as to when parents think children should start seeing a dentist. ADA recommends kids start visiting a dentist when the first tooth pops out, usually before or around turning one.
But… 32% of parents reported their child’s first dental visit was when they experienced pain or a dental problem.
And according to the ADA, many parents don’t realise if kids visit the dentist for the first time when there’s a dental issue, such as decay, it has the potential to create a life-long phobia of all things dental. In reality, many dental issues can be avoided and dentists should be seen as being ‘superheroes’ for the good work they do.
This is where health and finances collide. It costs a lot today but could cost your child even more in the future. The good news? If you think cost is a barrier to seeing the dentist on a regular basis, then read on to find out about financial benefits you may be able to take advantage of.
Have you heard of the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS)?
CDBS is a government-funded initiative that provides financial assistance for basic dental services for children every two years.
It’s capped at $1,095 for each child, and if needed, you’re able to use the full amount in the first year.
Be aware: using the full amount in the first year means you won’t have any funds for the second year. You’ll need to wait for a new two-year period to start.
What does the CDBS cover?
Dental services that your children can access include:
regular dental check-ups with scale, clean and polish
X-rays
tooth fillings
extractions
root canal treatment.
Be aware: some dental services may have claiming restrictions. A good dentist will let you know about the costs before the work is carried out.
The Child Dental Benefits Schedule does not cover:
any orthodontic services such as braces
mouthguards or splints
cosmetic dental work.
What’s the eligibility criteria for CDBS?
To be eligible for this program:
children should be under the age of 18
children have to be eligible for Medicare
the parent or child is receiving Government payment such as Family Tax Benefit Part A, Parenting payment or Double Orphan Pension payments.
Learn more about the Child Dental Benefits Schedule including full eligibility criteria, what’s covered and how to claim.
What other options are there for dental care?
If you’re not eligible for CDBS, private health insurance with dental extras is probably going to be your best option. You and your children – everyone on your policy – can take advantage of two dental check-ups each year.
Some funds will give you 100% back on twice-yearly check-ups, scales and cleans if you use a dental practice in their network. This alone helps offset a big chunk of the cost of your extras.
Depending on your policy, there may also be no out of pocket costs for other services such as having an X-ray every 12 months or getting fillings. And if major dental work is needed, you’re likely to get a more generous rebate when you have dental extras.
If you’re taking up a new policy or switching, check the finer details so you and your family are covered for what you think you’ll need.
The important thing to remember with private health insurance is that if you don’t use the dental services twice a year – that you’re paying for in your premiums – you’re throwing money away.
Going to the dentist every six months is the perfect way to maintain healthy teeth and gums. Plus you’re instilling good habits in your children from a young age, and helping to shape positive attitudes towards visiting the dentist.
Bottom line
The best thing parents can do to help children look after their teeth – other than trying to reduce the sugar in their diet – is to maintain twice-yearly dental checkups. It can help catch any dental issues early on and dentists can be viewed as ‘superheroes’ rather than ‘villains’.
Why not take a closer look if you’re eligible for CDBS. And if you need help with private health insurance, the experts at Compare Club can help find a cover that suits your family.
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Disclaimer
Any health or financial advice is general in nature and does not take into consideration your circumstances. Always check with a financial or health professional before making any decisions.
