Children's dental costs
How much does children's dentistry cost?
At Y3 Smiles Dental in Broadmeadows, a children's check-up is from $99 for ages 0 to 6 and from $149 for ages 7 to 15. Eligible children are bulk billed under CDBS, so there's nothing to pay for covered services. With general dental extras cover, check-ups are usually gap free, depending on your level of cover.
What do children's check-ups cost?
| Visit | Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Children's check-up, ages 0 to 6 | From $99 | Bulk billed for eligible children under CDBS |
| Children's check-up, ages 7 to 15 | From $149 | Bulk billed for eligible children under CDBS |
| Fissure sealants | Quoted at assessment | Covered under CDBS for eligible children |
| Custom sports mouthguard | From $250 | Not covered under CDBS |
Prices are a guide and shown as a starting point. Your final fee depends on your clinical needs and is confirmed in a written quote before treatment begins.
How does CDBS bulk billing work?
Eligible children are bulk billed under CDBS up to the $1,158 two-year limit, and we plan treatment to stay within it. That limit applies to two-year periods starting in 2026. For covered services we claim directly from Services Australia, so there's no gap. CDBS covers check-ups, x-rays, cleans, fissure sealants, fillings, root canal treatment and extractions, but not orthodontics or cosmetic treatment. Read more about CDBS bulk billing and eligibility.
What if my child isn't eligible for CDBS?
You pay the fees above on the day. If you have private health insurance with general dental extras cover, children's check-ups are usually gap free, depending on your level of cover. We claim through HICAPS while you're here. Check your policy for limits and waiting periods. See health funds at Y3.
Which item numbers apply to a child's visit?
Common items on a children's check-up and clean are 011 or 012 (examination), 022 (intraoral x-ray, if needed), 114 (removal of calculus) and 121 (fluoride). Fissure sealants are usually item 161. Your invoice lists the items used, which your fund needs to process a claim.
What if treatment is needed?
If the dentist finds something that needs treating, like a cavity or white spots from early decay, we explain it in plain language, show you, and give you the options and costs before anything happens. For CDBS-eligible children, we plan treatment within the available balance. Nothing is done without a parent or guardian's consent.
Is prevention cheaper than treatment?
Usually, yes. A regular check-up, clean and fluoride costs far less than treating decay once it has grown, and it spares your child the discomfort of a filling or extraction. Early decay can often be stopped before it needs a filling. If your child does need treatment, our children's aftercare guide explains how to look after them at home.
Other questions people ask
Is my child's first visit expensive?
A first check-up for a young child is from $99, and eligible children are bulk billed under CDBS. First visits for toddlers are usually gentle and short.
What if my child needs a filling?
Fillings are covered under CDBS for eligible children. If your child isn't eligible, we'll explain the fee and get your agreement before treatment.
Do I need to pay upfront?
Not for CDBS-covered services within your child's balance. For other visits, you pay on the day, and we claim your health fund on the spot through HICAPS.
Can we use Afterpay?
Afterpay and humm are available for treatment, subject to their approval. humm is regulated credit, so fees apply and interest may apply.
Are sports mouthguards covered by CDBS?
No. Custom sports mouthguards are from $250 and may be claimable on some extras policies.