Since January 2025, public health insurance in Germany (GKV) has started covering high-quality materials for fillings on front teeth—such as composites. That’s because amalgam (a lower-cost option previously used) is no longer permitted.
So what does this mean for you?
If you're getting a filling on one of your front teeth (incisors or canines), your dentist should bill this treatment directly to your public health insurance. In most cases, you shouldn’t need to pay out of pocket.
What’s changed with reimbursement through your supplemental plan?
We’ve seen some private invoices for these fillings, but under the new rules, most of them no longer qualify for reimbursement through your supplemental dental policy.
Right now, private billing for front-tooth fillings is generally only considered eligible for reimbursement if your dentist documents the use of special techniques—like multi-colour composite work. These are not standard and must be clearly noted on your invoice.
Here’s what you can do:
Ask your dentist before treatment if the cost will be billed through your statutory health insurance card.
Double-check your invoice—if you’ve been billed privately, it’s worth asking your dentist whether any special techniques were used—and whether that’s reflected on the invoice.
If needed, you can refer your dentist to the January 2025 update on amalgam regulations and GKV coverage.
We know dealing with medical bills isn’t fun. That’s why we’re sharing this update—to help you avoid unexpected costs and better prepare for conversations with your dentist.