Fixed Subsidy and Bonus Booklet Simply Explained
How much health insurance pays towards dental restorations, what the standard treatment is and why your bonus booklet is worth real money.
For dental restorations such as crowns, bridges and dentures, people with German statutory health insurance always pay a share themselves. How high it is depends on three things: the findings, the restoration you choose and your bonus booklet (Bonusheft) – the booklet in which your regular dental check-ups are stamped.
For dental restorations, the health insurer pays a finding-based fixed subsidy (Festzuschuss) of 60 % of the cost of the standard treatment (Regelversorgung). With regularly documented check-ups it rises to 70 % after five years and to 75 % after ten years. If you have a low income, the hardship rule may apply.
What is the standard treatment?
For each finding – for example “one missing tooth between two healthy teeth” – a standard solution is defined: the standard treatment (Regelversorgung). The fixed subsidy is based on it, regardless of whether you choose this solution, a similar one (e.g. an all-ceramic crown) or a different type of solution (e.g. an implant).
| Situation | Subsidy |
|---|---|
| Basic entitlement | 60 % of the standard treatment |
| Bonus booklet: 5 years without gaps | 70 % |
| Bonus booklet: 10 years without gaps | 75 % |
| Hardship case | up to 100 % of the cost of the standard treatment |
How to use your bonus booklet
- Adults: have a check-up once per calendar year and have it stamped in the booklet.
- Children and adolescents (6–17 years): once per calendar half-year.
- Under the current rules, missing a single check-up within the period does not affect the 10-year bonus.
- Lost your bonus booklet? Previous practices can often confirm past check-ups retrospectively.
Bring your bonus booklet to every check-up. For a crown or bridge, the bonus can amount to several hundred euros.
Book your appointment at the Zahnarztpraxis St. Peter – via online booking or by phone on 0911 554181. You will find us at Hainstraße 25, 90461 Nürnberg (tram 6/10 to Scharrerstraße, patient parking via Scharrerstraße).
Frequently asked questions
Is there a digital bonus booklet?
Many health insurers now offer digital bonus booklets via their app. Ask your insurer.
Who counts as a hardship case?
Insured persons with a low income and recipients of certain social benefits. Your health insurer can tell you the exact limits.
This article is a translation of our German guide and does not replace a personal examination and consultation. If you have symptoms, please see a dentist – for example at the Zahnarztpraxis St. Peter in Nuremberg.
