Sistema Nacional de Salud (SNS) together with the Social Security Administration in Spain, announced in October 2007 that dental care will now be covered by social security.

All children between the ages of 7 to 15 will be able to visit the dentist for their yearly check up at no cost. 

The new plan named ‘bucodental (for everyone) para todo’ will come into effect at the beginning of 2008. Costs for other dental procedures, such as orthodontics, fillings, sealants to avoid tooth decay, extraction of milk teeth will be subsidised by the social security administration, curbing the high costs of treatments and making dental care more affordable to the general public. In addition, ‘bucodental’ will also focus on preventative care and educating children on proper dental hygiene to avoid future problems. It is hoped that with this program, children will be able to encourage their parents and their entire family to practice proper dental hygiene. People tend to neglect their teeth due to the high cost of going to the dentist.

At the moment, a similar dental coverage plan is being offered but only in certain regions.
The good news is that now, dental coverage for children will be implemented nationwide and includes all the regions of Spain. Officials estimate that over 4 million children will benefit from the program.

For more information ask your dentist or social security office.

You may wish to contact Tina Tait at The Help and Advice Centre for Spanish Living at Plaza de Segura no 4, Santiago de la Ribera, Murcia 30720

Tel (0034) 96833 6606 or email:

Or visit her website at www.helpcentrespain.com