Free Braces for Children in Austria (2026)
In Austria, children and young people may receive braces free of charge through social insurance under certain conditions. Eligibility depends on the child’s age, the severity of the dental or jaw abnormality and which orthodontist provides the treatment.
When are free braces available?
Free braces (Gratis-Zahnspange) are a service of social health insurance (soziale Krankenversicherung). Since 1 July 2015, both removable (abnehmbare) and fixed (festsitzende) braces have been available through this system for children and young people.
Two main requirements must be met:
- Age: the child must not yet have reached the age of 18 when treatment begins.
- Severity: the child must have a significant dental or jaw abnormality (erhebliche Zahn- oder Kieferfehlstellung).
Free braces are not available for minor irregularities. In such cases, another form of financial support may be possible.
How is the severity of the abnormality assessed?
The severity is measured using the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need, or IOTN. An abnormality is considered significant when it falls into grade 4 or 5 on this scale.
The treating orthodontist (Kieferorthopädin / Kieferorthopäde) examines the child and determines whether an abnormality of this severity is present. Eligibility is established during a medical examination.
When does treatment begin?
Because of the age limit, it is important to know what counts as the beginning of treatment (Behandlungsbeginn). This is the day on which the braces are first placed in the child’s mouth.
The date of the initial consultation or examination does not count. The child must still be under 18 on the date when the appliance is actually placed in the mouth.
Who provides the treatment, and what does the insurer pay?
Free treatment is provided by an orthodontist who has an individual contract (Einzelvertrag) with social insurance. Different rules apply when treatment is provided by a chosen doctor (Wahlbehandlerin / Wahlbehandler).
- Contracted orthodontist (Einzelvertrag): treatment is free if all requirements are met.
- Chosen doctor (Wahlbehandler): under certain conditions, costs may be reimbursed (Kostenerstattung) up to 80 percent of the contracted fee (Vertragstarif).
With a private doctor, therefore, the full invoice is not reimbursed. If the necessary conditions are met, the reimbursement is 80 percent of the contracted fee.
Where can you find a contracted orthodontist?
Österreichische Gesundheitskasse (ÖGK) provides a list of its contracted partners organised by federal state (Bundesland). The list includes orthodontists who provide braces within the contracted system.
What support is available if free braces are not available?
In addition to free braces, social health insurance may provide a contribution (Zuschuss) towards braces if all conditions relevant to social insurance are met. The exact amount and conditions of this contribution are not specified here.
Frequently asked questions
Are fixed braces also covered?
Yes. Since 1 July 2015, both removable and fixed braces may be provided as a social insurance service if the requirements are met.
What happens if the child turns 18 during treatment?
The beginning of treatment is the day on which the appliance is first placed. The child must be under 18 on that date.
Who decides whether the child qualifies?
The treating orthodontist assesses whether the child has an IOTN grade 4 or 5 abnormality.
Can treatment by a private doctor also receive support?
Yes, under certain conditions. In that case, reimbursement is provided up to 80 percent of the contracted fee.
Practical steps
- Arrange an examination with an orthodontist (Kieferorthopädin / Kieferorthopäde).
- Ask whether the dental or jaw abnormality reaches IOTN grade 4 or 5.
- Make sure the braces are first placed before the child turns 18.
- Check the Österreichische Gesundheitskasse (ÖGK) list of contracted orthodontists in your Bundesland.
- If choosing a private doctor, confirm the reimbursement conditions and that the potential reimbursement is based on 80 percent of the Vertragstarif.
This information is based on sources available online and is not advice. Use it at your own responsibility. For professional guidance, contact an appropriate healthcare professional or other relevant specialist.
Source: oesterreich.gv.at