BANGKOK, Thailand – The government is expanding dental benefits under its social security system, with new coverage set to take effect on May 1 to reduce costs for insured workers and improve access to care.
Labor Minister Julapun Amornvivat said the updated benefits apply to insured individuals under Sections 33 and 39, with expanded services at both public and private contracted hospitals. At public facilities, coverage includes fillings, scaling, extractions, impacted tooth surgery, and additional procedures such as root planing and bone preparation for dentures. Services will be provided based on medical necessity without limits on visits, and patients will not be required to pay except in certain special clinic cases.
Denture benefits have been increased to 1,500-6,000 baht, with repairs set at 900 baht per visit. A new benefit covers dental implants for patients who have lost all teeth and cannot use removable dentures, including surgical costs, implant equipment, and follow-up care.
At private contracted hospitals, basic services such as fillings, scaling, and extractions will be covered up to 900 baht per year, with patients responsible for any remaining costs. Coverage for impacted tooth surgery and denture services is based on set rates, while dental implant benefits are provided under the same conditions as public facilities.
Eligibility requires insured persons to have contributed for at least three months within a 15-month period before receiving services, with coverage extending up to six months after leaving the system. Those using non-contracted providers can pay upfront and request reimbursement through the Social Security Office, which will publish a list of participating facilities as agreements are completed. (NNT)
