What are periodontal treatments, and why are they important?
Periodontal treatments address gum disease (periodontitis), a condition where gums and bone supporting your teeth become infected. Treating it early can help prevent tooth loss and improve oral health.
Does statutory health insurance (GKV) cover periodontal treatments?
Yes, statutory health insurance provides basic coverage for periodontal treatments:
Screening: Every two years, you are entitled to a Periodontal Screening Index (PSI) to check for gum disease.
Treatment: If periodontitis is detected, GKV covers:
Cleaning of gum pockets.
Professional dental cleaning (PZR) as part of the treatment.
For severe cases (pocket depths of 4mm or more), systematic periodontal therapy is covered, including follow-up care.
Follow-Up Care (UPT): 3–6 months after main treatment, supportive periodontal therapy (UPT) is provided to check results, clean pockets again, and include another professional dental cleaning.
How does supplemental dental insurance help with periodontal treatments?
Your supplemental dental insurance covers costs that go beyond the GKV’s coverage. This can include:
Treatments billed privately that are not included in the GKV benefits catalog.
Supplemental services that enhance or support the basic treatment provided by GKV.
What should I know about privately billed services?
There are two key points to keep in mind:
GKV Services Billed Privately: If treatments that are already covered by GKV are billed privately, these costs cannot be reimbursed by your supplemental insurance.
Privately Billed Supplemental Services: If your dentist bills for additional services not covered by GKV, your supplemental insurance may cover these costs. Submit the bill to your insurer to find out.
What do I do if I’m unsure about coverage?
If you’re unsure whether a specific treatment is covered by your supplemental insurance, submit a cost plan provided by your dentist both directly to your public health provider, as well as through your Feather account. We will then have it reviewed and inform you if your Feather dental insurance will provide benefits. Your public health insurer will give you additional feedback separately.
By understanding what is covered by GKV and your supplemental dental insurance, you can make the most of your periodontal treatment benefits and ensure your oral health is well cared for. Please contact us if you have additional questions.