Glossary for expats
German dental-insurance vocabulary, with a translation, a plain-language explanation and a hint where useful. The German term stays visible so you can match it on contracts and offers.
- ZahnzusatzversicherungSupplementary dental insurance
An optional private add-on to public health insurance that can cover part of the costs the GKV does not pay – fillings, crowns, implants, professional cleanings, depending on the tariff.
Hint: Often used by expats to bring out-of-pocket dental costs in Germany down to a predictable level.
- WartezeitWaiting period
The time between signing the contract and the moment the insurer starts to reimburse certain treatments. Common ranges: 0–8 months. Some tariffs waive it.
Hint: If your tariff has a 6-month waiting period, an implant started in month 2 may not be covered.
- ZahnstaffelAnnual reimbursement caps
A staircase that limits how much the insurer pays per year, especially in the first 3–5 years (e.g. €1,000 in year 1, €2,000 in year 2, etc.).
Hint: Plan large treatments once you have passed the early-year caps if possible.
- ErstattungsgrenzeReimbursement limit
Maximum amount or percentage the insurer pays back for a treatment, often combined with the Zahnstaffel.
- ZahnersatzTooth replacement
Crowns, bridges, implants and dentures – treatments that replace damaged or missing tooth substance.
- ZahnbehandlungDental treatment
Conservative care: fillings, root canal, periodontitis treatment. Mostly covered by the GKV at a basic level.
- Professionelle ZahnreinigungProfessional dental cleaning
Preventive cleaning by a dental hygienist (PZR). Usually a private service – the GKV does not cover it as standard.
- Heil- und KostenplanTreatment and cost plan
Written estimate from your dentist describing the planned treatment and its costs. Required for reimbursement of larger treatments.
Hint: Submit the HKP to your insurer BEFORE starting treatment to confirm what will be reimbursed.
- PrivatleistungPrivate benefit
Treatment that is not part of the standard GKV catalogue and must be paid privately – e.g. high-quality fillings, implants, PZR.
- Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung (GKV)Statutory health insurance
Germany's public health system. Provides basic dental care; many private benefits and premium materials are not covered.
- Private Krankenversicherung (PKV)Private health insurance
Full private health insurance, an alternative to the GKV for eligible groups (high earners, self-employed, civil servants).
- SelbstbeteiligungCo-payment / deductible
The share of the cost you pay yourself even after reimbursement.
- Laufende BehandlungOngoing treatment
A treatment that has already been advised, planned or started before the insurance contract begins. Usually excluded from coverage.
- Fehlende ZähneMissing teeth
Teeth that are already missing when the contract begins. Many insurers limit or exclude reimbursement for replacing them.