VDZI opposes CDU proposal to remove statutory dental benefits in Germany
German statutory dental coverage is under political pressure: understand what the CDU Economic Council proposals mean for patient access and the broader European debate.
The German dental technology association VDZI has publicly opposed proposals from the CDU Economic Council to remove statutory health insurance coverage for dental treatments and dentures. The proposals appear in the CDU Economic Council document 'Agenda für Arbeitnehmer in Deutschland', which examines reforms to labour market and social security structures.
VDZI argues that dental care is not a discretionary service but a core part of basic healthcare. The association points to evidence that oral health affects general health, quality of life, and social participation. VDZI president Dominik Kruchen warned that cutting statutory dental benefits would disproportionately harm patients who already delay or avoid treatment due to cost.
For dental professionals across Europe, this debate is relevant beyond Germany. FEPPD, the European federation representing dental technology associations, notes that the VDZI position reflects a wider European discussion about the future of publicly funded dental care. VDZI is calling for dialogue with policymakers to ensure that any healthcare reforms preserve rather than reduce access to dental treatment. No legislative decision has been taken yet, but the proposals indicate that statutory dental coverage in Germany may face political pressure in the coming months.