Many patients do not even know that they are entitled not only to a free preventive examination, but also for free seal. It sounds tempting – until the dentist’s account comes. We often pay for the seal. In fact, more than 2.7 million seized teeth in Slovakia are only every tenth without a surcharge.
Many patients are leaving outpatient clinics with accounts beyond their expectations, although they should be entitled to a car treatment without a surcharge by law. According to the legislation in force, each policyholder is entitled to one preventive examination per year (twice a year) and if he / she is completed, he is also entitled to dental caries treatment without a surcharge if necessary. How is it possible that the price suddenly climbs?
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According to data from the National Center of Health Information of the Slovak Republic in 2023, Slovaks completed more than 2.7 million sealing, but only every tenth of them without a surcharge. Basic caries treatment is defined as a simple procedure – removal of surface caries in the enamel or shallow dentine and subsequent addition to the tooth with a standard filling, most often composite seal.
“This performance is without complications, it does not require special techniques or treatment of the root canals. However, if caries penetrate the dental marrow, more comprehensive treatment is needed – cleaning of the root canals, reconstruction of the most part of the tooth or replacement of filling for special material. Klein, the main dental hygienist Martin and head of the Department of Dental Hygiene of the Slovak Medical University.
Foto: Freepik/Prostooleh
Dental clinic Illustrative image
The free filling by law includes only a simple procedure and the use of the basic filling material – a glass of mixed handmade. “However, it is currently less durable, aesthetic and often unsuitable for deeper caries. Modern dentistry requires other materials – composite, layered, ceramic fillings. They are functional and aesthetically significantly better, but the insurance company does not pay them.
How not to be surprised by the price?
Paradoxically, we are entitled to free treatment, but this includes a fill that is used only exceptionally and modern medicine does not consider it a suitable solution. “In addition, there are clinical situations where it is not possible to use cement filling – for example, for a larger defect where the filling should not be held. If the tooth is to be preserved for a long time, the doctor will reach for a material that is safe, functional and gentle. In such cases, you have the right to decide – either apply for a simple performance if it is technically possible or to choose an extra solution with a supplement.
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Dental hygienist recommends patients to inform the extent and type of filling before the procedure. “Dental clinics should be transparent. This approach is crucial for building confidence and eliminates the patient’s financial stress. It is important to introduce clarity where the price is already agreed at the entry consultation and does not change according to whether the caries proves to be deeper or more demanding.
