Question 1

How much does a dental crown cost?

Accepted Answer

A dental crown costs between €400 and €1,000 depending on the material. A metal crown (standard care) costs approx. €400–500, a porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crown approx. €600–900, an all-ceramic crown approx. €800–1,100, and a zirconia crown approx. €900–1,200. Statutory insurance pays a fixed subsidy of approx. €220 per crown regardless of the material chosen.

Question 2

What does insurance cover for dental prosthetics?

Accepted Answer

Statutory health insurance (GKV) pays a fixed subsidy based on standard care. This is e.g. €220 for a crown, €220 per bridge unit, €440 for a partial denture, and €520 for a full denture. There is no subsidy for inlays or veneers. The subsidy is paid regardless of which material you choose — it's based on the diagnosis, not the therapy.

Question 3

What is the fixed subsidy (Festzuschuss)?

Accepted Answer

The fixed subsidy is a set amount paid by statutory insurance for dental prosthetics. It's based on the dental finding (e.g., missing tooth, damaged crown), not the chosen treatment. Whether you opt for an inexpensive metal crown or a premium zirconia crown, the subsidy remains the same. It covers about 60% of the standard care costs.

Question 4

How much does the bonus booklet save?

Accepted Answer

With a consistently maintained bonus booklet, the GKV fixed subsidy increases. After 5 years of regular check-ups, you get 20% more subsidy; after 10+ years, 30% more. For a crown with a €220 base subsidy, that's €44 (5 years) or €66 (10 years) extra. Across a full set of dental work, this can save several hundred euros.

Question 5

How much does a dental implant cost?

Accepted Answer

A single dental implant costs between €2,300 and €4,000 including the abutment and crown. A standard titanium implant is approx. €2,300, a premium titanium implant approx. €3,100, and a ceramic implant approx. €4,000. Additional costs may include bone grafting (€500–1,500) or sinus lift (€1,000–2,500). Statutory insurance only covers the fixed subsidy for the crown portion (approx. €220).

Question 6

Is dental supplement insurance worth it?

Accepted Answer

Dental supplement insurance can be worthwhile if you prefer premium dental work. Good plans reimburse 70–90% of costs and charge €15–50 per month depending on age. Important: most policies have waiting periods of 8 months and benefit limits in the first years. Already started or planned treatments are usually excluded. Best to sign up before problems arise.

Question 7

What is a treatment plan (HKP)?

Accepted Answer

The Heil- und Kostenplan (HKP) is a binding cost estimate that your dentist creates before any dental prosthetic treatment. It lists the diagnosis, planned therapy, estimated costs, and insurance subsidy. The HKP must be approved by your insurance before treatment begins. You have the right to get a second opinion HKP from another dentist.

Question 8

What is the hardship rule?

Accepted Answer

The hardship rule (Härtefallregelung) doubles the fixed subsidy for dental prosthetics. It applies to people with low income: singles with gross income below approx. €1,358/month (2026), couples below approx. €1,867. Recipients of Bürgergeld, social welfare, BAföG, or war victim support automatically qualify. With the hardship rule, insurance covers 100% of standard care costs.

Question 9

Are payment plans available at the dentist?

Accepted Answer

Yes, most dentists offer payment plans, often through external financing partners. Typical terms: 6–24 monthly installments, often interest-free for short terms. Some dentists also offer internal payment plans at no extra cost. Ask about payment options before starting treatment and get the terms in writing.

Question 10

Are dental costs tax-deductible?

Accepted Answer

Yes, dental costs can be claimed as extraordinary expenses on your tax return. However, there is a reasonable deductible amount of 1–7% of total income depending on income, marital status, and number of children. Only amounts exceeding this threshold provide a tax benefit. Collect all invoices and payment receipts for your tax return.

Guide: Dental Cost Calculator

Dental Prosthetics Cost 2026: Insurance vs. Out-of-Pocket in Germany

Dental Crown Costs: Ceramic, Zirconia & Metal Compared

Dental Implant Costs: What Does an Implant Really Cost?

Dental Bonus Booklet: How to Save Up to 30%

Dental Supplement Insurance: Is It Worth It? Calculation Example

Hardship Rule for Dental Work: Who Gets Double Subsidy?

Dental Work Abroad: Opportunities & Risks