How Dental Care Works in Spain
Spain has:
- A public healthcare system (Seguridad Social)
- A large private healthcare and dental sector
For teeth:
- The public system usually only covers very basic or urgent dental care (e.g. extractions in emergencies, some limited services for children), depending on region
- Most adults use private dentists and pay directly – or use dental insurance or a dental "plan" to reduce the cost
This is why dental insurance in Spain is so popular, especially for:
- Expats used to public dental cover in their home country
- Families with children needing orthodontics
- People wanting regular check-ups to avoid bigger problems later
What Dental Treatments Cost in Spain
Understanding typical treatment costs helps you see the value of dental insurance. Here's what you might pay without insurance vs. with a typical network plan:
| Treatment | Without Insurance | With Network Plan | Typical Saving |
|---|---|---|---|
| Check-up + exam | €30-50 | Free | 100% |
| Basic cleaning | €40-80 | Free or €10-20 | 75-100% |
| Panoramic X-ray | €30-60 | Free | 100% |
| Simple filling | €40-80 | €15-35 | 50-60% |
| Root canal (molar) | €150-300 | €80-150 | 45-50% |
| Crown | €300-600 | €150-350 | 40-50% |
| Single implant | €800-1,500 | €500-900 | 35-40% |
| Orthodontics (braces) | €2,000-4,000 | €1,200-2,500 | 35-40% |
Note: Prices vary by region and clinic. Urban areas like Madrid and Barcelona tend to be more expensive. These are indicative ranges based on typical Spanish dental clinics.
Comparing Dental Plan Types
| Feature | Network Plan | Reimbursement Plan | Add-on to Health |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly cost | €5-15 | €20-40 | €8-20 |
| Dentist choice | Network only | Any dentist | Usually network |
| Free basic services | Yes | Partial reimbursement | Yes |
| How you pay | Fixed prices at clinic | Pay first, claim back | Fixed prices at clinic |
| Best for | Budget-conscious | Flexibility seekers | Existing health members |
Types of Dental Plans in Spain
Names vary between insurers, but most fall into one of these models:
Most Popular1. Network-Based Dental Plan
- You use dentists within the insurer's network
- A list of treatments is free (or included)
- Other treatments have fixed, discounted prices
Premium Option2. Reimbursement Dental Insurance
Less common but exists, mainly higher-end policies:
- You can use any dentist
- You pay the dentist and the insurer reimburses a percentage (e.g. 70–90%) up to certain limits
- Premiums are typically higher than network-only plans
Convenient3. Dental Add-On to Health Insurance
Many private health insurers in Spain offer:
- A separate dental module you can add to your general health insurance
- Sometimes at a discount compared to buying it alone
What Does Dental Insurance in Spain Usually Cover?
Every policy is different, but a typical dental insurance might include:
Included Free
- • Initial check-up / oral exam
- • Basic annual cleaning
- • Panoramic X-ray
- • Emergency visits
- • Simple fillings (some plans)
Discounted (Fixed Prices)
- • Additional fillings
- • Root canals (endodontics)
- • Extractions
- • Crowns and bridges
- • Periodontal treatments
Major (Waiting Periods)
- • Orthodontics (braces)
- • Implants
- • Complex prosthetics
- • Full-mouth rehabilitation
- • Jaw surgery
Note: In many Spanish dental plans, the real value is the discount table: the insurer negotiates lower prices with clinics, and you benefit from those agreed rates.
What's Usually Not Covered (or Only Partially Covered)?
Always ask for:
- The full treatment list with prices
- A written explanation of waiting periods and exclusions
Waiting Periods for Dental Insurance in Spain
| Treatment Type | Typical Waiting Period | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Check-ups, cleanings, X-rays | None | Available immediately |
| Fillings, simple extractions | None to 1 month | Most plans: immediate |
| Root canals, crowns | 1-3 months | Varies by insurer |
| Orthodontics | 3-6 months | Often 6 months |
| Implants | 6-12 months | Longest waiting period |
Tip: If you already know you need major work, join as early as possible and confirm what will be covered and when.
How Much Does Dental Insurance Cost in Spain?
Prices vary, but as a rough idea:
Basic Plans
€5–15/month
Per person, network-based
Complete Plans
€15–25/month
More comprehensive coverage
Reimbursement Plans
€25–40/month
Free dentist choice
Costs depend on:
- Age (premiums may increase for older applicants)
- Type of plan (network vs. reimbursement)
- If it's individual, couple or family coverage
- Whether you're bundling with health insurance
Many insurers offer family packages and discounts when you combine health + dental + other products.
How to Choose the Right Dental Insurance – 5 Steps
Assess your dental needs
Do you just need basic maintenance (check-ups, cleanings)? Or do you anticipate major work like implants or orthodontics? This determines what level of coverage makes sense.
Check the network in your area
If considering a network plan, make sure there are quality clinics near your home or work. Ask about English-speaking dentists if language is a concern.
Compare the treatment price list
Ask each insurer for their full price list. Compare prices for treatments you're likely to need. The cheapest premium isn't always the best value.
Understand waiting periods
If you need specific treatments soon, check when they become available. Some plans have no waiting period for certain services.
Consider bundling with health insurance
If you need private health insurance anyway, adding dental might be cheaper than buying separately. Many insurers offer 10-20% discounts for bundled policies.
Dental Insurance in Spain – Key Questions for Expats
Language & Communication
Will you have dentists who speak your language or English? Can the insurer or broker explain the policy details clearly in your language?
Network Locations
Are there partner clinics near your home or work? Is the network good in both your Spanish region and your home city if you travel often?
Children & Orthodontics
If you have kids, check how orthodontics are treated. Is there an age limit or special discount structure for braces?
Pre-existing Issues
If you already have problems (e.g., need a root canal or implants), ask honestly: What will be covered? Any waiting periods? Any pre-existing exclusions?
Tips for Getting the Most from Your Dental Insurance
Use your included services
Most plans include 1-2 free cleanings per year. Don't let these go to waste – regular cleaning prevents expensive problems later.
Keep the price list handy
Before any treatment, check what you'll pay. Network prices are fixed, so you can plan ahead for bigger work.
Get pre-authorization for major work
For expensive treatments like implants or orthodontics, get written confirmation of coverage before starting treatment.
Review your plan annually
Your needs may change. If you've used implant coverage, you might be able to downgrade. If your kids need braces, upgrade before you need it.
Related Guides
Dental Insurance Cost in Spain
What expats pay for dental insurance – premiums, copays, and real costs
Dental Insurance Coverage in Spain
What's included, what's excluded, and coverage levels explained
Best Dental Insurance in Spain
How to compare and choose the best dental plan for your needs
Health Insurance for Visa in Spain
Health insurance requirements for Spanish visas and residency