Does the SSN cover orthodontic braces for children?

Only partially and only for selected cases: severe malocclusions diagnosed by an SSN dentist. Coverage varies greatly by region. In many areas orthodontics remains largely a patient expense.

Can I go to the SSN dentist without a GP referral?

Yes. For basic dentistry no GP referral is needed: book directly through the CUP. A referral may be required for some specialist treatments such as oral surgery.

Are the waiting lists really long?

Yes, in many ASLs the wait for non-urgent treatments can be months. For urgent cases (acute pain, infection) the ASL must guarantee a visit within 72 hours. Consider a contracted dentist (who charges rates between SSN and private) to reduce waiting times.

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Mediumsalute

Available in:🇮🇹IT 🇬🇧EN

NHS dental care: how to access public dentistry in Italy

Public dentistry in Italy covers a selected range of treatments, especially for higher-risk groups (children, the elderly, people with disabilities, oncology patients) and those with a low ISEE. Care is provided at the Oral Health Centres (CSO) of the ASL. Waiting lists can be long: plan ahead.

Authority

ASL di competenza — Centro Unico di Prenotazione (CUP)

Time

20 min

Updated

May 2026

What you need

✓Health card
✓Identity document
✓Valid ISEE certificate (if applying for income exemption)
✓Any relevant medical documentation (oncology diagnosis, disability certificate, etc.)

Step-by-step procedure

Check if you are entitled to exemption

The following are fully exempt from dental ticket fees: children and teenagers up to 16, pregnant women and up to one year after birth, people with ISEE ≤ €8,263, social pension holders, 100% civil invalids, oncology and immunosuppressed patients. For medium-low income (ISEE up to ~€36,000) reduced rates apply. Check updated thresholds on your region's website.

ISEE thresholds vary slightly by region.

Book a first visit at the Oral Health Centre (CSO)

Contact your ASL's CUP (Central Booking Centre) in person, by phone or online. Request a first dental visit (triage visit): the public dentist will assess your case and draw up a treatment plan. In some regions you can book directly on the regional portal.

Undergo treatment and pay the ticket (if not exempt)

SSN-covered treatments include: extractions, fillings, tartar removal, cavity treatment, prosthetics for entitled categories. Aesthetic treatments (whitening, veneers) are never covered. The ticket is paid before or after treatment according to local rules. Keep the receipt for the 19% IRPEF tax deduction.

Dental expenses are 19% deductible in your tax return, for both public and private treatments.

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Portale del Servizio Sanitario Nazionale

Ministero della Salute / ASL di competenza

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Frequently asked questions

Responsible authority

Authority

ASL di competenza — Centro Unico di Prenotazione (CUP)

Phone

Certified email

Website

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The information in this guide is for orientation only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Always verify on the official portal of the responsible authority.