Don't Pay a Fortune: Dental Scaling Can Be Covered by BPJS Kesehatan

Dental cleaning or scaling is often postponed by the public due to perceived high costs. However, this procedure can actually be accessed free of charge through BPJS Kesehatan with certain conditions. Not all scaling requests can be immediately accommodated. This treatment is only covered if the patient has a medical condition that requires care, not merely for aesthetic reasons. These provisions are important because many people still assume that scaling can be done freely using BPJS. In fact, this service has limitations and procedures that must be met. BPJS Kesehatan itself confirms that dental scaling is included in the guaranteed services, as long as there is a clear medical indication from healthcare professionals. “Dental scaling for acute gingivitis (gum inflammation) can be guaranteed by BPJS Kesehatan with a coverage period of once every two years,” BPJS Kesehatan wrote via its official X account (@BPJSKesehatanRI), quoted on Saturday, 11 April 2026. “Examination can be carried out at the registered Primary Care Facility (FKTP) based on medical indication and cannot be on self-request,” BPJS Kesehatan continued. This means BPJS only covers scaling if it is medically necessary. This provision is also stated in the Jaminan Kesehatan Nasional-Indonesian Health Card (JKN-KIS) service guidelines. “Healthcare services for aesthetic purposes are not guaranteed by JKN-KIS,” BPJS Kesehatan wrote. Procedure for Dental Scaling Using BPJS Kesehatan 1. BPJS Kesehatan participants visit a primary care facility (FKTP) such as a community health centre or clinic, bringing an active BPJS card. 2. The dentist will conduct an examination. If a medical indication is found, scaling can be performed free of charge at that facility. 3. If the condition requires further treatment, the patient will be referred to an advanced health facility with a referral letter from the primary facility. The referral letter will be used to seek treatment at the referral hospital’s facility, particularly with dental specialists or sub-specialists.