Statutory health insurance covers a Fixed allowance for dentures that are based on so-called regular care. This standard care is the simplest and most economical treatment that is considered medically adequate. Which type of dental prosthesis is covered depends on the individual findings:

Examples of health insurance benefits

• Crowns and bridges: Partially covered if they comply with standard care.
• Removable dentures (partial and full dentures): Subsidised if they represent the necessary replacement.
• Implants: Not usually covered, except in exceptional cases (e.g. for certain conditions such as jawbone loss).

Fixed contribution and personal contribution for dentures

The fixed contribution covers around 50% of the costs of standard care. With a well-maintained bonus booklet over 5 or 10 years, this subsidy can rise to 60% or 65%. Patients must pay the difference to the actual treatment themselves.

For more comprehensive treatments or more aesthetically demanding dentures, it is therefore worthwhile to consider private supplementary dental insurance.

Like all insured persons, pensioners must pay their own contribution for dentures, which is dependent on standard care. However, low-income pensioners have the option of receiving an increased subsidy through the hardship scheme. In this case, health insurance covers the entire costs of standard care, meaning that only the additional costs for higher-quality materials or aesthetic solutions have to be paid.

It is generally possible to get dental implants after radiotherapy, but this depends on several factors, such as the area being treated, the type of radiotherapy and the general condition of the bone.

Radiation therapy can weaken jawbone tissue, which can make it difficult for the implants to heal. In some cases, the bone may be so severely damaged that special measures such as bone grafting or alternative implant procedures are required.

It is also important to wait a certain period of several months to one year after the end of radiotherapy to ensure that the cancer does not return and therefore requires renewed radiation treatment.

The best dentures in old age depend on individual needs, dental health and financial capabilities. Fixed dentures such as implants provide a stable and long-lasting support, but are more expensive and require a healthy jawbone. Alternatively, crowns and bridges are a good choice if there are still sturdy teeth.

Removable dentures, such as partial or full dentures, are particularly suitable for toothless jaws and are often less expensive, but offer less stability. In our dental practice in Berlin, we are happy to help you find the right solution for you based on your individual requirements and wishes.

The healthiest dental prosthesis is the one that is best tailored to individual needs and optimally imitates the natural function of the dentition. Implants are often considered to be the healthiest option because they are anchored directly in the jawbone and can therefore prevent bone loss, which often occurs when teeth are lost.

They also provide a firm grip and allow natural stress on the jaw. With good care, they are particularly durable and protect the neighboring teeth, as they do not have to be sanded as with bridges.

Yes, artificial teeth can be permanently attached, usually through dental implants. Implants consist of small titanium or ceramic screws that are inserted into the jawbone and serve as a stable base for crowns, bridges or prostheses. This firm anchoring in the bone ensures natural function and aesthetics, similar to real teeth. Fixed bridges that are attached to natural teeth or implants also offer a permanent solution.

If implants are not possible, there are various alternatives for dentures that can be individually adjusted. Fixed solutions such as dental bridges are a common choice, particularly when adjacent teeth can be used for attachment.

Removable partial or full dentures are also an option, particularly if there are several missing teeth or toothless jaws. In some cases, a combination of fixed and removable dentures, such as telescopic prostheses, may also be a good solution.

Fixed dentures can cause various problems that can affect functionality, aesthetics or oral health. For example, there may be pressure points or pain if the dentures have not been precisely adjusted. There is also an increased risk of tooth decay on adjacent teeth, particularly on bridges, as cleaning is often difficult.

Inflammation of the gums can also be promoted by hard-to-reach areas. Over time, fixings or materials can wear out, which can result in loosening or damage. Aesthetic challenges such as visible borders or color deviations are other potential disadvantages.

Yes, a bridge is a fixed prosthesis. It is firmly attached to natural teeth or implants, which serve as pillars, and can only be removed by a dentist. Bridges are used to replace single or multiple missing teeth and provide a stable and long-lasting solution. They ensure an even load when chewing, maintain the position of the teeth and contribute to the aesthetics of the smile.

Removable dentures are usually secured by special holding mechanisms such as clips, suction forces or a precise adjustment to the gums and existing teeth. Partial dentures often use braces that are attached to the remaining natural teeth, while full dentures often use the natural vacuum in the mouth to keep the dentures in place.

In some cases, additional implants or special anchoring systems may be used to improve stability and increase the feeling of strength.