Portugal's unmet dental-care rate rose to about 10.2% last year, up from 9.9% in 2024 and more than double the EU average (4.6%), with most people saying cost is the reason they skipped necessary treatment, according to reporting based on the National Institute of Statistics survey. The same survey shows families view dental expenses as a heavier burden than medication or other medical costs. Households budgeting tightly and anyone relying on public schemes should consider private cost estimates and check what is covered locally by public clinics.