5+ 差し歯保険内 Article

Introduction

Have you ever considered getting dentures or already have them? If so, you may be wondering about how dental insurance in Japan covers the cost of dentures. In Japan, dentures are referred to as "差し歯" (sashi-ba) and there are different types of insurance plans that may provide coverage for them.

Types of Dental Insurance in Japan

There are two types of dental insurance in Japan: national health insurance and private dental insurance. National health insurance is mandatory for residents in Japan and covers 70% of the cost of dental treatments, including dentures. Private dental insurance, on the other hand, is optional and can provide additional coverage for dental treatments not covered by national health insurance.

Coverage for Dentures

Under national health insurance, the cost of dentures is covered up to a certain amount. For example, for a complete set of dentures, the coverage is up to 110,000 yen. However, if you opt for more expensive dentures, you may need to pay the difference out of pocket. Private dental insurance may provide additional coverage for the cost of dentures.

Requirements for Coverage

To be eligible for coverage for dentures under national health insurance, you must meet certain requirements. These include having all your natural teeth extracted or missing, or having severe dental problems that require dentures. Private dental insurance may have different requirements for coverage.

Choosing a Dentist

When getting dentures, it's important to choose a dentist who is experienced in fitting and making dentures. You may also want to consider a dentist who accepts your insurance plan. You can find a list of dentists in your area who accept national health insurance on the official website of the Japan Dental Association.

Cost-Saving Tips

If you're looking to save on the cost of dentures, there are a few things you can do. For example, you can opt for basic dentures instead of more expensive ones. You can also shop around for a dentist who offers competitive pricing. Additionally, you may want to consider private dental insurance for additional coverage.

Caring for Your Dentures

Proper care for your dentures is important to ensure they last a long time. This includes cleaning them daily with a denture brush and soaking them in a denture cleanser. Avoid using hot water or strong chemicals on your dentures, as this can damage them. You should also remove your dentures at night and store them in water to prevent them from drying out.

Replacing Your Dentures

Over time, your dentures may need to be replaced due to wear and tear or changes in the shape of your mouth. It's important to see your dentist regularly to check the fit of your dentures and to determine if they need to be replaced. Under national health insurance, you can get new dentures every 5 years.

Conclusion

In conclusion, dental insurance in Japan can provide coverage for the cost of dentures. National health insurance covers up to a certain amount, while private dental insurance can provide additional coverage. It's important to meet the requirements for coverage and choose a dentist who is experienced in fitting and making dentures. With proper care and regular check-ups, your dentures can last a long time.