Dental Care Costs in Germany

Dental care in Germany is partially covered by the GKV system, but patients often face significant out-of-pocket costs for advanced procedures. Basic preventive care, checkups, and simple fillings are covered, but the GKV only pays for standard amalgam fillings in rear teeth. Patients wanting composite (tooth-coloured) fillings pay the difference, typically €30–€80 per filling.

Crowns are partially covered by the GKV through a fixed subsidy system (Festzuschuss). The standard subsidy covers approximately 60% of the cost of a basic metal crown, increasing to 70% with 5 years of regular checkups documented in a dental bonus booklet (Bonusheft), and 75% with 10 years. Despite the subsidy, patients typically pay €300–€600 out of pocket for a crown, depending on material choice.

Dental implants receive only a fixed subsidy equivalent to the conventional bridge alternative. Since implants cost €1,000–€3,000 per tooth, patients bear most of the cost. Many Germans purchase supplementary dental insurance (Zahnzusatzversicherung) at €10–€50 per month to offset these costs. Orthodontic treatment for adults is not covered by GKV at all, costing €3,000–€8,000 out of pocket.