Does insurance cover dental implants? What is the reality?

Dental implants are currently considered the most modern and reliable method of replacing missing teeth. They perfectly mimic the appearance and function of natural teeth and, with proper care, can last for many years, often even a lifetime.

Reimbursement of dental implants by insurance companies in the Czech Republic

Currently, health insurance companies in the Czech Republic do not cover the cost of dental implants or crowns on implants. This applies to adults as well as children and adolescents.

Implants are considered a non-standard dental procedure that exceeds the scope of basic healthcare covered by public health insurance.

Exceptions when implants may be partially or fully covered

Exceptional cases mainly concern patients with very serious health conditions or congenital defects, such as:

• After injuries with extensive damage to the jaw.
• After cancer treatment, when part of the bone or teeth has been removed.
• Certain congenital developmental defects.

Even in these cases, however, reimbursement for dental implants from health insurance is rather rare and is always subject to individual approval by the insurance company's medical reviewer.

What the insurance company may cover for implants

Even if the implant itself is not covered, the health insurance company may cover some of the related procedures:

• Examinations, X-rays, CT scans – if they fall within the scope of preventive or diagnostic care.
• Alternative replacements – removable dentures, partial bridges and other basic prosthetic work.

Why does the insurance company not cover dental implants?

From the perspective of health insurance companies, tooth loss should be replaced in a way that restores chewing function, but does not necessarily meet the highest aesthetic and comfort requirements.

Dental implants are a premium option because they offer:

• A natural appearance without visible metal parts.
• Maximum comfort when speaking and biting.
• Prevention of bone loss in the jaw.

The price of a dental implant

The price of a dental implant at our clinic ranges from CZK 19,500 per implant, to which the price of the crown and any additional procedures (e.g. bone augmentation, sinus lift) must be added.

How to obtain a contribution towards the cost of an implant

Check whether your commercial supplementary insurance (life, accident or supplementary health insurance) covers part of the costs. Some insurance companies offer subsidies for dental hygiene or other dental procedures as part of their bonus programmes – even if this does not directly cover the implant, it can reduce part of the costs.