Opportunities for coverage

• HELFO - Coverage is provided for specific disease diagnoses. We help you assess whether you are entitled to reimbursement.

• NAV - Financial support may be available if your financial situation warrants it.

• Insurance - Many insurance policies cover dental treatment in connection with injuries and accidents.

Social security benefit for dental treatment abroad

Since January 1, 2011, mandatory members of the National Insurance Scheme can receive dental treatment in other EEA countries and, under certain conditions, receive social security benefits according to the same regulations as for treatment in Norway.

An overview of patient groups that can claim social security benefits can be found in the regulations to section 5-6 of the National Insurance Act. See also HELFO's website for details. Important points to be aware of:

• Social security benefits are regulated by section 5-6 of the National Insurance Act and the Dental Health Services Act.

• Treatment must be paid for on site and receipts must be taken home.

• It is the dentist's professional assessment that determines the choice of treatment, but documentation that the conditions for reimbursement are met must be submitted to HELFO.

• Travel and accommodation expenses are not covered beyond what would have been reimbursed in Norway.

• For specialist treatment, the patient must be able to document that the dentist is a relevant specialist.

• Implant treatment requires specialist expertise, and reimbursement is only given if the screws are inserted by an approved specialist.

• Social security benefits are only granted once per tooth replacement. Exceptions may apply to dental injuries.

Important to know about implant treatment abroad

Implants require maintenance, and there are many different implant systems. If you don't know the system used, it can be difficult to get help in Norway. Even if the brand is known, parts may not be available. This may mean that repairs need to be carried out where the treatment was done.

In certain cases, Norwegian dentists may refuse to maintain work carried out abroad, as they may assume financial and professional responsibility for other people's constructions.

The quality of dental treatment in other EEA countries is often as good as in Norway, but professional assessments may vary. It is recommended to consult a Norwegian dentist before major treatments abroad.

Norwegian Patient Injury Compensation does not apply to treatment carried out outside Norway. For the EEA area, Consumer Europe can provide advice. Visit www.forbrukereuropa.no for more information.

These guidelines have been prepared to provide information about which dental treatments may be covered by HELFO or insurance in the event of injury or accident.