Quick answer: Does the ZZZS cover dental implants?
NO — the ZZZS (Slovenian national health insurance) does not cover dental implants.
Dental implants fall under _self-pay services_, which means the patient pays for them in full themselves.
This applies both to individual implants and to All-on-4, subperiosteal implants and all related procedures.
Rare exceptions: in individual cases the ZZZS may cover part of the cost — more on this in the section below.
What the ZZZS ACTUALLY covers in dental care
- A routine dental examination (once a year)
- Emergency dental care (severe pain, bleeding)
- Treatment of caries in children up to the age of 18
- Orthodontic treatment for children (up to the age of 18, with an indication)
Completely NOT covered:
- Dental implants
Why are dental implants not covered?
The reason lies in the ZZZS categorisation: dental implants are classified as an _„aesthetic"_ or _„elective"_ procedure, not as _„medically necessary"_. The ZZZS works on the logic that cheaper alternatives exist (removable dentures, bridges), even though they are functionally and medically inferior.
This will not change in the foreseeable future — Slovenia's health insurance system has no funds allocated for the widespread coverage of implants.
Rare exceptions — when the ZZZS CAN cover the cost
In very rare cases the ZZZS may partly or fully cover dental implants:
1. Trauma (injury)
After a serious injury (e.g. a traffic accident, a workplace accident) in which the patient has lost teeth and the need for an implant for reconstruction is documented, the ZZZS may contribute to the funding.
2. Congenital anomalies
In children and adolescents with congenital dental anomalies (e.g. _oligodontia_ — teeth missing from birth), the ZZZS may cover part of the cost.
3. Oncology patients
After cancer treatment in the jaw/head/neck area in which teeth or bone have been lost, the ZZZS may contribute.
The reality: even in these cases approval is rare and requires explicit documentation. More than 99 % of implants in Slovenia are paid for as a self-pay service.
Supplementary health insurance — does it help at all?
Many patients have supplementary health insurance (Vzajemna, Triglav, Generali, Adriatic Slovenica). The question: does it cover dental implants?
Brutally honest:
- Basic supplementary insurance (about 35 €/month) does NOT cover dental implants. It only covers the difference between the ZZZS tariff and the actual bill — and since there is no ZZZS tariff for implants at all, there is nothing to cover.
- Premium dental insurance (e.g. Vzajemna Zobi Plus, Triglav Dental) partly covers prosthetics (crowns, bridges), but does not cover the implants themselves. It may cover 10–50 % of the cost of the crown that is attached to the implant.
- Annual limits are typically 500–1,500 €, which is not much against a 5,500 € All-on-4.
Important: before taking out premium insurance, always consider whether you want dental implants in the next 1–2 years — insurance policies have a waiting period (6–12 months), meaning they do not pay for the service during that time.
Tax allowance on dental costs
Slovenian law allows you to claim health costs as an allowance in your annual income tax return.
- The allowance applies to all health costs not covered by the ZZZS or supplementary insurance
- You can deduct them from your income tax base if they exceed 2 % of your income
- Keep all receipts — originals and/or e-invoices
- The allowance applies to costs for you and your family members (children, partner)
Financing options at Koderman
At the Koderman Implantology Centre we offer several payment methods:
The simplest method. Payment can be split across the clinical stages.
We accept Visa, Mastercard, Maestro. No surcharge.
For procedures over 1,000 € we offer interest-free instalment payment.
No interest, no paperwork, no banks.
Banks offer health loans at favourable interest rates (3–6 %).
Price vs value — is it worth it?
Working out the cost per year of use, implants are comparable to bridges, but are a considerably more comfortable solution.
Frequently asked questions about the ZZZS and dental implants
Will the ZZZS cover dental implants in the future?
In our view, not in the foreseeable future (5–10 years). The political and financial reality gives no sign of change.
If I am disabled, do I get a discount or coverage?
Disability in itself does not mean the ZZZS will cover implants. However, if the disability is linked to the loss of teeth for a medical reason (cancer, trauma), you can apply for special approval from the ZZZS.
Are dental implants tax-deductible?
Yes, as a health cost in your annual income tax. Keep the receipts.
Can I pay for dental implants through my company (sole trader, limited company)?
Not in the normal course, because they are categorised as a personal health cost. Consult an accountant about any special cases.
Do you offer a discount for older people at Koderman?
For patients over the age of 65 we offer a 10 % discount on all implants and prosthetics. Ask at the consultation.
Book a free consultation
Not sure which solution is the most favourable for you? At the Koderman Implantology Centre in Ptuj we offer you a free first consultation.
📞 Call: +386 51 452 627 📧 Write: info@koderman.eu 📍 Hreničeva ulica 3, 2250 Ptuj ⏰ Mon 9–16, Tue–Fri 9–15
Author: Dr Antonio Koderman, dr. dent. med. & msc of implantology — specialist in implantology, owner and head of the Koderman Implantology Centre in Ptuj.