Services to Expect When Signing up for Bulk Billing in Dental Care

Australia has a Medicare system that allows for free access to select health services and this includes dental care. Under the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) children can get certain procedures done for free as long as they meet the eligibility criteria. When your dentist bulk bills you for procedures done to children it means the bill will be settled by Medicare. A bulk billing dentist will not charge additional administration or booking fees.

Here are the procedures covered under bulk billing.

Dental Examination

Regular dental examination is vital to oral hygiene. The procedure will involve an evaluation of overall dental health and the likely risks one faces. Risks include root decay, tooth decay and bone or gum disease. During this examination the dentist will be able to tell if you need tooth replacement or tooth restoration.

Expect questions on any health problems or medications and a discussion on how they affect your dental health. Your dentist will check for fitting and/or adjustments if you have a prosthetic replacement (dentures or bridges).

Root Canal

Root canal treatment is part of bulk billing under CDBS. Also known as endodontic treatment, root canals are prescribed when the pulp (the soft tissue below the hard enamel in your mouth) is infected or inflamed. Inflammation can be triggered by faulty crowns, deep decay or a chip in the tooth. Inflammation causes immense pain if left untreated.

During the process, the pulp is removed after which the tooth is cleaned and sterilized. After the disinfection, the space previous occupied by the pulp is filled and then sealed with gutt-percha, a rubbery material. The tooth then functions normally.

Dental X-Rays

A dental x-ray will show images of your child's mouth and teeth in blurry black and white details. Dense structures (such as teeth) usually appear white when developed on film since they block the light energy from the x-ray. You will not need any special preparation before the test. The x-ray itself does not cause any discomfort and simply drawing slow, deep breathes should relieve any anxiety. The test is necessary since it helps the dentist to diagnose injury and disease of gums and teeth.

Fillings and Fissures

Fillings are a form of restoration that returns your teeth to their normal appearance, shape and function after cavities from tooth decay. Fissure sealants on the other hand are a preventive measure against buildup of plaque placed in the grooves found in teeth especially at the back of the mouth. 

For more information, talk to a bulk billing dentist.