When Should the First Visit Be?

The official recommendation: with the first tooth. usually at 6–8 months. The first visit is just an introduction, not treatment.

Ages 3–6: GKV covers one preventive check-up per year

Ages 6–18: GKV covers two check-ups per year + IP1–IP5 procedures

§22 SGB V: What the Law Guarantees for Free

§22 of the German Social Code (Verhütung von Zahnerkrankungen) guarantees children aged 6–17 individual preventive care twice a year on statutory health insurance (GKV).

IP1

Oral Hygiene Assessment

Teeth are stained with a disclosing agent that reveals plaque. No pain, no fear. just coloured spots and a lesson for the whole family.

IP2

Oral Health Education

Personalised brushing instruction, toothbrush selection, introduction to flossing. with child-friendly techniques and models.

IP4

Fluoride Varnish Application

Fluoride-rich varnish strengthens enamel against acids. Especially important during the eruption of permanent teeth.

IP5

Fissure Sealants. the most important measure

Permanent molars have deep grooves (fissures) where plaque accumulates and a toothbrush cannot reach. Sealants fill these grooves with a liquid material. Studies show a 70–80% reduction in fissure cavities. Fully free under §22 SGB V for permanent molars ages 6–17. as long as the tooth is cavity-free.

Bonusheft from Age 12: Savings for the Future

From age 12, children start their Bonusheft. a preventive care booklet. Every check-up gets a stamp. Adults who maintain this record for 5–10 years receive an increased GKV subsidy for crowns later. up to 75% instead of 60%. That habit literally saves hundreds of euros 20 years down the line.

What GKV Does Not Cover

Professional tooth cleaning (PZR). not in the standard GKV catalogue. Some insurers offer it as a voluntary benefit. ask your insurer.

Orthodontics: GKV only pays for severe malocclusions rated KIG 3–5. KIG 1–2 is self-pay.