What is a cost estimate and why is it so important?
A cost estimate (HKP) is the central document for any planned dental treatment in Austria. For dental implants, it is particularly important because the treatment consists of several phases — diagnostics, surgery, osseointegration and prosthetic restoration — and the costs are correspondingly complex.
Many patients receive a cost estimate without knowing what it must contain, what is missing, and which items they can submit to their health insurer. The Institute for Implantology and Digital Dentistry Vienna has created this guide to provide you with independent, evidence-based guidance.
Important: The institute does not carry out treatments. This guide serves exclusively for independent patient education. For clinical implementation, the institute refers to a disclosed reference partner.
What items must a complete implant cost estimate include?
A complete cost estimate for dental implants in Austria must list all planned services transparently and individually. The following table shows the mandatory items and their significance:
| Item | Description | Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Implant body | Titanium or zirconia implant (specify manufacturer + model) | Yes |
| Abutment | Connecting element between implant and crown | Yes |
| Implant crown / denture | Ceramic, zirconia or other prosthetic restoration | Yes |
| DVT / CBCT diagnostics | 3D X-ray for bone assessment (if planned) | Situational |
| Bone augmentation | If bone volume is insufficient — specify method | Situational |
| Temporary restoration | Interim restoration during the osseointegration phase | Recommended |
| Follow-up appointments | Check-ups after implantation and restoration | Yes |
| Anaesthesia / sedation | If planned (e.g. twilight sedation) | Situational |
Insurance reimbursement and subsidies in Austria
Statutory health insurers in Austria (ÖGK, BVAEB, SVS) generally do not cover the costs of dental implants directly. Implants are considered an elective service. However, there are important exceptions and subsidy options:
Social insurance dental prosthetics subsidy
A subsidy can be applied for certain forms of implant-supported dentures. The amount depends on the type of restoration and the type of insurance.
Bone augmentation for medical necessity
If bone augmentation is medically necessary (e.g. after trauma or illness), parts of the costs may be eligible for insurance coverage. This must be clearly indicated in the cost estimate.
Private supplementary insurance
Many private health insurers in Austria cover a portion of implant costs. Check your insurance policy and submit the complete cost estimate.
Civil servant benefits (BVAEB)
Civil servants and their family members may, under certain conditions, receive higher subsidies for dental prosthetics through BVAEB than employees through ÖGK.
Institute recommendation: Submit your cost estimate to your health insurer — and to your supplementary insurer if applicable — before starting treatment. Wait for written confirmation of costs before beginning treatment.
Warning signs: How to recognise an incomplete cost estimate
An incomplete or unclear cost estimate can lead to unexpected additional costs. Watch out for the following warning signs:
Your checklist: Reviewing your dental implant cost estimate
Use this checklist to systematically review your cost estimate before signing it:
Have your cost estimate reviewed free of charge now
The institute's HKP check reviews your cost estimate for completeness and compliance on a scientifically sound basis — free of charge, independent and without any conflict of interest.