July the 2nd, 2026 – New dental treatment rules are now in effect in Croatia in line with wider alignment with EU regulations. Here’s what you need to know.
As Poslovni reports, brand new dental treatment rules have officially come into effect in Croatia, introducing changes to the materials used for dental fillings and changing how certain treatments are covered by compulsory health insurance.
These changes are part of Croatia’s alignment with European Union (EU) regulations aimed at reducing and eventually eliminating the use of mercury in dental medicine, with the goal of protecting both patients’ health and the environment.
As of July the 1st this year, new materials are being introduced as alternatives to dental amalgam, often known as “black fillings.” These include glass ionomer cements and hybrid glass ionomer cements, which will be used for insured patients under the Croatian health insurance system.
Dental amalgam will no longer be the standard material for fillings covered by compulsory Croatian health insurance. Instead, its use will become an exception and will only be allowed in specific clinical situations when a dentist determines that it is necessary due to the patient’s individual health needs.
Patients insured through Croatia’s health system will continue to have the right to free treatment for cavities. Dentists will now use the newly approved materials for these procedures. White composite fillings will continue to be covered by the health system in certain cases. They are available free of charge for front teeth, including incisors and canines, as well as for pregnant women, women who have recently given birth, and breastfeeding mothers.
For other teeth and other patient categories, the standard material covered by health insurance will be glass ionomer cement. Patients who choose composite fillings in these cases will need to pay the difference themselves. These latest rules mark a very significant shift in dental care in Croatia, moving away from traditional mercury-containing fillings and introducing newer materials as the standard option for many patients.
