Austria faces a dental care challenge as the EU-wide ban on amalgam fillings takes effect in January 2025. The Austrian Health Insurance Fund (ÖGK) and the Dental Chamber are at odds over replacement materials, with negotiations stalled.

The ÖGK proposes Alkasit, a material with necessary strength, as a cost-effective alternative, but dentists prefer to charge patients for composite fillings.

Without an agreement, patients may have to pay out-of-pocket for fillings, receiving partial reimbursement later.

The ÖGK remains hopeful for a resolution, offering improved terms, but the Dental Chamber remains skeptical, citing insufficient improvements in the proposal.