In Japan, treatments that are considered medically necessary for disease or injury are generally covered by public health insurance. The following dental treatments are typically covered:
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・Cavity Treatment
Cavity treatments, including fillings (inlays) and crowns, are covered under insurance depending on the severity of the cavity. However, the materials that can be used are limited (details below).
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・Periodontal Disease Treatment
Treatments for gum disease, such as tartar removal, inflammation control, and teeth cleaning, are covered by insurance.
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・Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Extraction of wisdom teeth is covered if the tooth is causing pain or affecting the alignment of other teeth.

・Dentures and Adjustments
The creation and adjustment of partial and full dentures are covered by insurance. However, certain materials and designs may not be covered and could require out-of-pocket payment.

・Mouthguards for Teeth Grinding and TMJ Disorder
Mouthguards for teeth grinding (bruxism) and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder are covered by insurance. However, mouthguards for sports or sleep apnea are not covered.

On the other hand, treatments that are considered cosmetic or advanced procedures are not covered by public health insurance. The following treatments typically require full out-of-pocket payment:
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・Teeth Whitening
Whitening treatments to improve the color of teeth are considered cosmetic and are not covered by insurance.

・Orthodontics
Orthodontic treatments to straighten teeth are generally not covered by insurance unless they are necessary to correct severe misalignment that affects chewing or speaking.

・Dental Implants
Implants to replace missing teeth are not covered by insurance and are treated as private procedures.

There are also restrictions on the materials that can be used for crowns and fillings under public insurance.
Materials Covered by Insurance:
Gold-silver-palladium alloy
Composite resin (plastic-based materials)

Materials Not Covered by Insurance:
Ceramic
Zirconia
If a patient prefers ceramic or zirconia for aesthetic reasons, the treatment will be classified as private and require full payment.

In Japan, most essential dental treatments such as cavity treatment, gum disease treatment, and wisdom tooth extraction are covered by insurance. In contrast, in many Western countries like the United States and parts of Europe, dental care is typically not covered under public health insurance. Even basic treatments like cavity fillings or tooth extractions often require private dental insurance or full out-of-pocket payment. Japan's national health insurance system provides significant financial relief for dental care, making it one of the more accessible systems worldwide.