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Bonus booklet at the dentist: Understanding and using subsidies

Dental surgery: procedure, causes, and tips for optimal wound healing

Molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH): All about chalky teeth

Bonus booklet at the dentist: Understanding and using subsidies

Content

What is the bonus booklet at the dentist?
Does the bonus booklet still exist?
How the bonus system works
Which check-ups count?
Lost bonus booklet – solutions
Where to get a bonus booklet
Retroactive entries
If the stamp is refused
Bonus booklet for children
Dental prosthesis without a bonus booklet
Subsidy calculation with the bonus booklet
Frequently asked questions about the bonus booklet
Summary
Sources and further reading

The bonus booklet is an important tool for documenting regular dental checkups. However, many patients do not know exactly how it works and what financial benefits it offers. In this article, you will learn how to use the bonus booklet correctly and thereby significantly reduce your share of the cost of dental prostheses.

What is the bonus booklet at the dentist?

The bonus booklet documents your regular dental check-ups. At each check-up appointment, you receive a stamp from your dentist once a year. If you later need dental prostheses—such as a crown, bridge, or dentures—your statutory health insurance will pay a higher subsidy, known as a fixed subsidy, if you can prove that you have had regular check-ups. The bonus booklet has been standard practice in the German healthcare system since 1989 and applies to all persons insured under statutory health insurance.

Does the bonus booklet still exist?

Yes, the bonus booklet still exists. The confusion often arises from the following factors:

Many practices now use digital documentation systems.
Many practices now use digital documentation systems.
Some patients have misplaced their bonus booklet.
Some patients have misplaced their bonus booklet.
There have been changes to the subsidy regulations.
There have been changes to the subsidy regulations.

Health insurance companies accept both the traditional paper booklet and digital records.

How the bonus system works

The subsidy scale

Regular preventive care increases the health insurance company's fixed subsidy:

Without a bonus booklet: 60% of standard care
Without a bonus booklet: 60% of standard care
With 5 years of continuous preventive care: 70% of standard care
With 5 years of continuous preventive care: 70% of standard care
With 10 years of continuous preventive care: 75% of standard care
With 10 years of continuous preventive care: 75% of standard care

Important: The year in which treatment begins does not count towards the bonus period. For treatment in 2025, you need preventive examinations from 2020–2024 (for a 5-year bonus) or 2015–2024 (for a 10-year bonus).

Calculation example

Dental prosthesis worth €2,000

Without bonus booklet: €1,200 subsidy, €800 co-pay

At age 5: €1,400 subsidy, €600 co-pay

At age 10: €1,500 subsidy, €500 co-pay

Savings: up to €300 through regular preventative care.

👉 Schedule your preventative care appointment with Dental21 now to secure your bonus entitlements in the long term: Book an appointment online now!

These subsidies apply to standard care. Even for higher-quality care (e.g., a ceramic-white bridge instead of a metal one), the insurance company pays the increased fixed subsidy – the co-payment is reduced accordingly.

Which check-ups count?

The following preventive examinations count toward a stamp in the bonus booklet:

Adults (from 18 years): 1× annual dental check-up

Children and adolescents (6–17 years): 2× annual check-ups

Children under 6 years: Early detection examinations

Important time rule:

For children and adolescents, there must be at least 4 months between the two annual check-ups. The examinations should take place in different half-years of the calendar.

The preventive check-up includes the examination of teeth, gums, and oral mucosa.

A professional dental cleaning (PZR) is medically recommended but does not replace the preventive examination for the bonus booklet.

Lost bonus booklet – solutions

If you have lost your bonus booklet, it can be replaced:

Dental practice:

Your practice can retroactively record the examinations in a new booklet. The documentation is stored in the patient file.

When changing practices:

Previous dentists can confirm past examinations. Each dentist may only enter the examinations performed in their own practice.

If the practice has closed:

Often, a successor has taken over the patient files. Alternatively, the Kassenzahnärztliche Vereinigung (KZV) can help – treatment data are archived there.

Health insurance provider:

Preventive appointments are often also recorded by your health insurance company.

Important:

Always request your bonus booklet back when submitting it to your insurance provider and keep old booklets safely.

Where to get a bonus booklet

You can get a new bonus booklet free of charge:

At your dental practice (most practices have them available)
At your dental practice (most practices have them available)
From your health insurance provider (branch office or online request)
From your health insurance provider (branch office or online request)
Digitally via some health insurance apps
Digitally via some health insurance apps

Retroactive entries

Retroactive entries are possible if the examination is documented in the patient file. Health insurance companies generally accept entries until the end of the year.

Tip: Keep your bonus booklet together with your insurance card.

If the stamp is refused

A dentist may only refuse to give a stamp in specific cases:

No preventive examination: Acute treatments or consultations only do not count
No preventive examination: Acute treatments or consultations only do not count
Already stamped: Only one stamp per calendar year (for adults)
Already stamped: Only one stamp per calendar year (for adults)
Treatment-only appointments: Dental cleaning or other treatments alone are not sufficient
Treatment-only appointments: Dental cleaning or other treatments alone are not sufficient

If a preventive examination did take place, the dentist is obliged to provide the stamp. If unclear, you can contact your health insurance provider or the KZV.

Bonus booklet for children

The bonus booklet also applies to children:

From the first tooth: Early detection examinations can be recorded
From the first tooth: Early detection examinations can be recorded
From 6 years: 2× preventive check-ups recommended per year
From 6 years: 2× preventive check-ups recommended per year
From 12 years: The booklet officially counts toward the future dental prosthesis subsidy
From 12 years: The booklet officially counts toward the future dental prosthesis subsidy

Advantage: From 12 to 18 years, 6 consecutive years can already be built up – from 18, only 4 more years are needed to reach the maximum subsidy.

Early, regular dental visits support oral health and secure long-term financial benefits.

Dental prosthesis without a bonus booklet

Without a bonus booklet, you receive 60% reimbursement of the standard treatment cost.

The remaining 40% are paid by the patient.

Example (standard care €1,000):

Without booklet: €600 subsidy, €400 copayment

With 10 years of preventive care: €750 subsidy, €250 copayment

Savings: €150 per €1,000 of dental prosthesis cost.

Subsidy calculation with the bonus booklet

The subsidy is based on the standard treatment cost (medically necessary baseline care). Even with higher-quality treatments, the insurer only covers the fixed subsidy for the standard treatment.

Calculation steps:

Determine standard treatment cost (from treatment and cost plan)
Determine standard treatment cost (from treatment and cost plan)
Multiply by subsidy rate: 0.6 / 0.7 / 0.75
Multiply by subsidy rate: 0.6 / 0.7 / 0.75
Difference to actual cost = copayment
Difference to actual cost = copayment

Example:

Standard treatment €1,500 – actual treatment €3,000

Subsidy after 10 years: €1,500 × 0.75 = €1,125

Copayment: €1,875

Frequently asked questions about the bonus booklet

Can I use the bonus booklet in any dental practice?

Yes. The bonus booklet is not tied to a specific practice. You can have it stamped at any dental practice. Changing dentists is not a problem.

What happens if I miss a year?

In principle, the bonus period restarts. An exception applies if only one year is missing within 10 years and you can provide a valid reason (e.g. severe illness, pregnancy, long stay abroad). The insurance provider may still grant the 75% subsidy at its discretion.

Does the bonus booklet count for private supplementary insurance?

That depends on the policy. Many private supplementary plans consider the bonus booklet and reward regular check-ups with higher benefits.

Can I keep the bonus booklet digitally?

Yes. Since 2022, many statutory health insurance companies offer digital bonus booklets through their online portal or app.

What if my dentist has retired?

Contact your Kassenzahnärztliche Vereinigung (KZV). Treatment data are archived and can be officially confirmed. Alternatively, your health insurance company can often provide proof.

Summary

The bonus booklet is a simple tool for documenting regular preventive check-ups. If kept up to date, it increases the insurance subsidy for dental prostheses from 60% up to 75%. After 5 consecutive years, you already receive an increased subsidy – after 10 years, you reach the maximum rate.

👉 Have you had your bonus booklet stamped this year? Book your preventive appointment at Dental21 now and secure your benefits: Book your appointment online now

Sources and further reading

This article is based on information from the following official and independent sources:

Official institutions: KZBV, G-BA, BZÄK Statutory health insurers: Barmer, AOK, TK Consumer information: Verbraucherzentrale, Finanztip Legal basis: Social Code Book (SGB V) § 55

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Dental Cleaning During Pregnancy: Why It’s Especially Important Now!

Expecting a new life? First of all, congratulations! Naturally, you have a thousand things on your mind right now: What color should the nursery be? Which daycare is the best option? Or could it be twins? During this exciting time, a professional dental cleaning (PDC) is probably the last thing you're considering. However, neglecting this could be a significant mistake for both you and your baby, as you'll discover here. Dental Cleaning during Pregnancy Pregnancy brings numerous changes to the body. Hormonal adjustments are common but can cause the gums to swell noticeably, become more sensitive, and inflame more easily. Now, more than ever, there's a lot at stake: Untreated periodontitis can lead to various adverse effects on the pregnancy and, in severe cases, even premature birth. Thus, it's crucial to prevent this. Moreover, certain dental treatments are limited during these nine months since some medications are best avoided. X-rays and local anesthesia should also be minimized as much as possible. To be on the safe side, paying extra attention to oral hygiene is advisable: Professional dental cleanings are now more important than ever. How Does a Professional Dental Cleaning Work? The first step is scheduling an appointment, which at Dental21, can be done effortlessly online. You can also complete the digital medical history form from the comfort of your couch, office, or even on a tram ride. Before starting, the dentist assesses the current status of your teeth and creates a personalized treatment plan based on your needs. Various cleaning techniques are employed as required. Staining of Teeth: To check if all surfaces of the teeth are being cleaned properly at home, the teeth are stained. This visibility helps reinforce the importance of thorough cleaning and assists the dental professional in removing all plaque. Anesthesia: If the teeth or gums are too sensitive, gel anesthesia can provide relief. In extreme cases, local anesthesia may be considered. Removal of Plaque: With the help of an ultrasonic device (Piezon), the removal of hard and soft plaque begins. For hard-to-reach areas, all available tools are used (interdental brushes, superfloss, dental floss, etc.). Removal of Stains: Stubborn stains on the teeth are gently removed using a powder jet device (Airflow). Biofilm Removal: The biofilm, a bacterial layer on the tooth surface, contributes to the development of cavities and gum disease. This biofilm is removed using Airflow-Plus, including intensive cleaning of areas slightly below the gumline. Cleaning of Interdental Spaces: Most pathological processes occur in the interdental spaces, where cavities and gum diseases often start in adulthood due to limited access and infrequent cleaning. Professional dental cleaning pays special attention to these areas, and a bactericidal gel (CHX) is often applied after cleaning to further reduce bacterial levels. Polishing of Teeth: After thorough cleaning, the teeth are polished to not only make them shine but also to smooth any rough surfaces, minimizing potential attachment sites for bacteria. Special polishing pastes, brushes, and rubber cups are used for this purpose, and fillings may also be polished, and sharp edges smoothed. Don't Forget the Tongue: Numerous bacteria reside on the tongue, so it's also cleaned and treated with a gel to reduce bacterial levels. Fluoridation of Teeth: Fluorides play a crucial role in dentistry, strengthening teeth and helping to remineralize small cavities, preventing further progression. Few substances have been as extensively researched for their effectiveness as fluorides. In Conclusion: We also provide comprehensive education on nutrition, demonstrate home oral hygiene tools, explain brushing techniques, and much more. If necessary, we can prescribe special mouthwash solutions, perform a test to determine your risk of developing periodontitis (MMP8 test), or show you how to address hard-to-reach areas with dental treatments (Invisalign). The Ideal Timing For Professional Teeth Cleaning During Pregnancy It is recommended that expectant mothers have at least two professional dental cleanings during pregnancy. However, the ideal time for the first dental cleaning is not in the 1st trimester, but in the 2nd trimester, i.e. between the 14th and 26th week of pregnancy. According to DG Paro, elective dental procedures, including professional teeth cleaning, are not recommended in the 1st trimester. The reason for this is the potential risk of bacteremia, which should be avoided during this sensitive phase of pregnancy. The second dental cleaning can then take place between the 25th and 35th week of pregnancy. In the 3rd trimester, many women often find visits to the dentist less pleasant, which is why appointments tend to be avoided at this time. Professional dental cleanings are not only considered safe, but even beneficial for an optimal course of pregnancy. Women planning a pregnancy are also advised to ensure thorough oral hygiene before conception and to have any periodontitis treated. This creates the best conditions for your dental health and allows you to concentrate fully on what really matters during pregnancy: Your baby. Key Points at a Glance Oral hygiene can impact the course of pregnancy: The link between periodontitis and premature births is well-documented. Many dental treatments are advised against during pregnancy, such as anesthesia or exposure to X-rays, to avoid potential risks. Professional dental cleanings are safe and highly recommended during pregnancy to ensure a healthy outcome. Ideally, expectant mothers should undergo two dental cleanings during the first two-thirds of their pregnancy. Time for a Professional Teeth Cleaning? At Dental21 clinics, you benefit from treatment using state-of-the-art technology. You can find us at over 50 locations throughout Germany. Book your professional teeth cleaning now!

Yellow Tongue Coating: Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Treatment Methods

The tongue coating arises from the accumulation of food residues, dead skin cells, and microorganisms on the tongue’s rough surface. This coating is often found in the back third of the tongue because this area is difficult to clean. Different Types of Tongue Coating White Coating: A slightly white tongue is normal. Yellow Coating: Often harmless but can indicate diseases when associated with other symptoms. Brown Coating: Commonly caused by coffee, tea, or nicotine. Black Coating: Known as black hairy tongue, unsightly but harmless. Causes of a Yellow Tongue A yellow tongue can arise from poor oral hygiene, an unbalanced diet, or smoking. It may also signal serious health issues like liver and gallbladder diseases or gastritis. Other potential causes include: Fungal Infection: A thick, white-yellowish coating can result from a fungal infection, often caused by Candida albicans. Poisoning: The presence of toxins or metals can manifest as a yellow discoloration of the tongue. Disease: Conditions like syphilis or diphtheria can be associated with changes in the tongue. Symptoms Accompanying a Yellow Tongue Symptoms such as bad breath, loss of taste, a furry sensation, tongue burning, fever, and a general feeling of illness may accompany changes in the tongue. When to See a Doctor? While a yellow tongue coating is often harmless, there are situations when consulting a doctor is advisable: If the coating persists despite good oral hygiene. If additional symptoms like bad breath, changes in taste, a furry sensation, or tongue burning occur. In case of fever or a general feeling of illness. If the coating is particularly thick, furry, or persistent. A dentist or general practitioner can determine the cause and, if necessary, recommend further tests or specific treatments. The Importance of The Tongue and Saliva in Health The tongue is more than just an organ for speech and communication. It is a central organ for pleasure, conveying flavors, temperature, and food texture. It plays a significant role in oral health and the digestive process. The papillae on the tongue help us recognize different tastes. Saliva also plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health - it helps flush interdental food residues, neutralizes acids produced by plaque bacteria, and contains essential minerals for tooth remineralization. Adequate saliva production is vital to reduce the formation of tongue coatings. Prevention and Daily Care A healthy lifestyle and good oral hygiene are crucial to prevent issues like a yellow tongue coating. Here are some tips: Regular Oral Hygiene: Daily dental cleaning should include tongue care. A tongue brush or scraper can effectively remove the coating. Adequate Hydration: Drink enough water to support oral hygiene and reduce bacterial accumulation. Healthy Diet: Avoid excessive consumption of foods and beverages containing colorants, as well as sugar and nicotine. Regular Dental Visits: Routine check-ups with the dentist can help detect and treat problems early. If a yellow tongue coating persists, seek medical advice to rule out serious health issues and initiate appropriate treatment. Professional Tongue and Treatment Options For stubborn tongue coating, professional cleaning by a dentist may be necessary. This can be done with special tools that remove deep-seated coatings. In cases of oral thrush (fungal infection) or other infections, treatment with antifungal or other medications may be required. Summary While a yellow tongue can be an unpleasant but mostly harmless phenomenon, it's important to pay attention to your body's signals and seek medical advice for persistent or concerning symptoms. With proper care and attention to oral health, this condition can be effectively treated and prevented in the future. Book your appointment now! FAQs What are the most common causes of a yellow tongue coating? The most common causes are typically poor oral hygiene, consumption of certain foods and drinks (like coffee, tea, and cigarettes), certain medications, and in rare cases, medical conditions like liver and gallbladder diseases or oral thrush. Is a yellow tongue coating a cause for concern? In most cases, it is harmless and can be tackled with improved oral hygiene or changes in dietary habits. However, if the coating persists despite good oral care or is accompanied by other symptoms like bad breath or taste changes, a medical consultation is recommended. Book your appointment now! Can a yellow tongue coating indicate serious health problems? While often harmless, a yellow tongue coating can sometimes signal serious health issues such as an infection or liver or gallbladder diseases. If the coating is persistent, cannot be removed by improved oral hygiene, or is accompanied by other symptoms, a doctor's evaluation is advised. Book your appointment now!

From Prevention to Treatment: Everything You Need to Know About Pus on the Gums

Pus on the gums is a common problem that affects many people and can, if left untreated, lead to oral and general health issues. This condition, medically known as oral abscess, occurs when pus accumulates in the gum tissue in response to a bacterial infection. It's important to understand that pus on the gums is more than just a cosmetic issue. It can be a sign of underlying conditions and requires appropriate treatment. Causes of Pus on the Gums The formation of pus on the gums can have various causes. A common cause is the buildup of plaque, a bacterial film on teeth and gums. These bacteria produce acids that attack the tooth enamel and release substances that irritate the gums, leading to redness, sensitivity, inflammation, and pus formation. The mouth harbors approximately 100 billion bacteria and germs from about 700 species. Many of these are beneficial and vital for survival, while others are not. An imbalance can have a negative impact on the immune system and overall health. Another common cause is periodontitis, a chronic inflammation of the gums and surrounding tissues. A chronic inflammation of the gums leads to the formation of gum pockets filled with bacteria and pus, ultimately resulting in bone loss and tooth loss. Treating these situations involves professional cleaning of the affected areas and possibly additional dental measures to prevent the spread of infection and restore and promote dental and oral health in the long term. Symptoms and Signs of Pus on the Gum In addition to the visible accumulation of pus on the gums in the form of a blister, other symptoms may indicate a problem: Pain and sensitivity: Affected individuals often report pain in the affected area, especially when chewing. Swelling and redness: The affected gums can be swollen, red, and warm. Unpleasant taste and bad breath: An infection in the mouth can lead to a bad taste and noticeable bad breath caused by the breakdown of proteins from food by mainly anaerobic bacteria, which can particularly be found in the areas of deep gum pockets. As a result, there are increasingly severe signs of inflammation and pus formation. General discomfort: In some cases, there may be fever and general malaise. Treatment Methods for Pus on the Gums The treatment of pus on the gums depends on the cause and severity of the infection. Here are some common treatment methods: Dental Cleaning: Professional cleaning removes plaque and tartar, helping to reduce infection and decrease the risk of future pus formation. Medication: The dentist may prescribe antibiotics to fight bacterial infection. In some cases, the dentist will use of antibacterial gels or ointments to apply locally. Surgical interventions: In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to drain the pus and treat the infected tissue. Root canal treatment: If an infected tooth root is the reason for an abscess, root canal treatment is necessary if the tooth is still salvageable. If necessary, the dentist may need to extract the affected tooth. Never attempt to puncture a gum abscess at home, as this can lead to a further spread of infection. It is important to promptly consult a dentist at the first signs of pus on the gums to receive appropriate diagnosis and treatment. Even in the case of pus on the gums without painful symptoms, it is essential to seek dental treatment. Lack of pain is not an indication that everything is fine or that no therapy is needed. Preventive Measures Against Pus on the Gums Prevention is the key to avoiding pus on the gums. Here are some effective strategies: Good oral hygiene: Regular brushing and flossing are crucial to remove plaque and bacteria. Regular dental check-ups: These allow for early detection and treatment of problems before they become serious. Balanced diet: A healthy, low-sugar diet supports overall oral health. Avoidance of risk factors: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of gum problems and should be avoided. When Should You See a Dentist? It is significant to visit a dentist at the first signs of pus on the gums. These include pain, swelling, redness, or the appearance of pus. Early treatment can help prevent serious complications. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Question 1: Can pus on the gums be safely treated at home? While mild discomfort may be relieved with home remedies such as saltwater rinses, it is necessary to consult a dentist at the first signs of pus on the gums. Self-treatment can worsen the problem or lead to complications. Question 2: How long does it take pus on the gums to heal? The healing time depends on the severity of the infection and the treatment. Improvement usually begins a few days after starting treatment. However, it may take several weeks for the condition to heal completely. Question 3: Can pus on the Gums lead to other health problems? Yes, untreated pus on the gums can spread and lead to serious infections, including the risk of sepsis. Therefore, early treatment is crucial. Question 4: Are specific individuals more susceptible to developing pus on the gums? Yes, people with weakened immune systems, smokers, diabetics, and those with poor oral hygiene are more susceptible to gum inflammation and pus formation. Question 5: How can I reduce the risk of developing pus on the gums? Good oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups, a healthy diet, and avoiding risk factors such as smoking are effective ways to minimize the risk. Question 6: What are the first signs of pus on the gums? The first signs may include swelling, pain, redness in the gum area, and sometimes an unpleasant taste in the mouth. Question 7: Are there preventive measures for pus on the gums? Yes, regular oral hygiene, a low-sugar diet, not smoking, and regular dental check-ups are vital preventive measures. Question 8: What should I do if the pus blister on the gums has burst? If a pus blister on the gums has burst, you should promptly see a dentist. Until the appointment, it is essential to keep the mouth clean. Rinse gently with a mild saltwater solution to clean the affected area. Avoid pressing or rubbing the area. Do not self-medicate unless a dentist has given you specific instructions. The dentist will take the necessary steps to treat the infection and prevent further complications. Summary Pus on the gums is a major dental problem that can be effectively treated if detected early. The importance of good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups cannot be overstated. These measures, along with a healthy lifestyle, help to minimize the risk of pus on the gums and other dental problems. 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