In a recent interview, dental medicine expert and health economist Stefan Listl critiques a proposal from the CDU Economic Council suggesting that individuals should pay for their own dental visits. He argues that such ideas reflect a misunderstanding of public health priorities, especially as health systems often cut back on dental care when budgets are tight. This focus on individual payments could exacerbate existing inequalities in health access and outcomes.

Listl emphasizes the critical connection between oral health and overall societal well-being, stating that the condition of a population's teeth can serve as a barometer for broader social health. He warns that neglecting dental health not only affects individuals in terms of quality of life but also places additional financial burdens on the healthcare system when untreated oral issues escalate into more serious health problems.

The discussion highlights the need for a more sustainable approach to dental care funding, urging policymakers to recognize that investing in preventive dental health is ultimately more cost-effective and socially responsible than shifting costs directly onto individuals. This conversation reflects broader debates in Germany about healthcare funding and equity, as the nation grapples with how to balance budgetary constraints with the imperative to maintain public health standards.