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MADRID — May 17, 2024 — Spain is set to introduce free dental care through its social security system, beginning in 2025. This important public health initiative will provide free dental treatments to eligible groups, including children, people with disabilities, and pregnant women. The move aims to improve access to dental healthcare and break down economic barriers preventing people from receiving this vital service. Further details are expected in the coming months, but the program promises to transform Spain’s approach to public health.
starting in 2025, spain’s healthcare system is implementing a important change by offering free dental treatments to specific groups through social security. this initiative aims to make oral health a right for all people, breaking down economic barriers that previously hindered access to dental care.
who benefits from free dental care?
the ministry of health has outlined the specific populations eligible for the free oral attention program:
- children under 14 years (up to 16 years with disabilities): this includes periodic reviews and treatments to prevent caries risk.
- people with disabilities.
- pregnant women: specific services are available for pregnant women to ensure their oral health during pregnancy.
adults may also benefit from social security aid if they meet certain economic requirements,including:
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a health card in force.
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residence in spain.
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not exceeding the income threshold.
free dental services for minors (up to 14 years)
children under 14 will receive individualized monitoring, especially those with a predisposition to caries, periodontal disease, or malocclusions. the free benefits include:
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sealing fissures or graves in permanent healthy teeth to prevent caries.
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fillings for existing decay.
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appropriate treatment of pulp lesions.
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extraction of temporary teeth (milk teeth).
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extraction of a permanent dental piece, if deemed necessary by the dentist.
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cleaning (when necessary).
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treatment of gingivitis and periodontitis.
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coverage for special treatments for trauma or malformations of canine incisive teeth, subject to certain requirements.
free dental services for adults
according to the ministry of health’s official web portal, primary oral care for adults includes:
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facts, health education, and training in oral hygiene and health.
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treatment of acute dental processes, such as infectious or inflammatory processes, osseodentary trauma, wounds, and injuries in the oral mucosa, as well as acute pathology of the temporomandibular joint. this includes oral advice, pharmacological treatment, exodontics, surgical exodances, minor oral cavity surgery, oral review for early detection of premalignant lesions, and biopsies of mucous lesions.
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preventive exploration of the oral cavity for pregnant women, including health instructions, oral hygiene training, and topical fluorine submission.
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preventive and healthcare measures for the child population, such as topical fluorine application, shutters, and sealing fissures.
how to request free dentist services
the application process is straightforward. it begins through health centers or social security. adults need to provide identification, a health card, and proof of income.
it is significant to note that healthcare is managed by the autonomous communities, so the specific oral health plan may vary regionally.
expert insights on spain’s dental care system
spain has one of the best dental care systems in europe [1]. while the public health system does not fully cover dental care, this new initiative marks a significant step towards comprehensive coverage. for those seeking additional dental care options, private dental insurance is available, offering access to a wide network of professionals at a lower cost [1]. feather insurance, for example, provides access to over 1,500 dental clinics in spain, with many common services offered free of charge [2].
faq: free dental care in spain
- who is eligible for free dental care in spain?
- children under 14, people with disabilities, and pregnant women are eligible. adults meeting specific income requirements may also qualify.
- what services are covered for children?
- covered services include preventive treatments like sealing fissures, fillings, extractions, and treatment of gum disease.
- how do i apply for free dental services?
- apply through health centers or social security, providing necessary identification and income information.
- does the coverage vary by region?
- yes, as healthcare is managed by autonomous communities, the specific oral health plan can vary.