Do I need an appointment to visit a dental clinic in Korea?

Appointments are recommended, but many dental clinics in Korea accept walk-in patients. Booking in advance helps reduce waiting time, especially for foreigners or specialized treatments.

Can foreigners visit dental clinics in Korea?

Yes. Foreigners can visit Korean dental clinics with or without National Health Insurance. Many clinics offer English support and explain treatment costs before procedures.

Is Korean National Health Insurance accepted at dental clinics?

Most dental clinics in Korea accept National Health Insurance. Eligible patients typically pay about 30% of the total treatment cost, depending on age and procedure.

What dental treatments are covered by Korean health insurance?

Covered dental treatments include scaling, resin fillings for children, root canal treatment, dentures, and dental implants, with specific age and frequency limits.

How much does a dental visit cost in Korea?

With insurance, initial dental visits typically cost between KRW 4,000 and 30,000. Costs vary depending on the clinic type, treatment, and insurance coverage.

What should I bring to a dental clinic in Korea?

Patients should bring a passport or Korean ID and a National Health Insurance card if enrolled. Previous dental records or X-rays are helpful but not required.

Are dentures and implants covered for seniors in Korea?

Yes. Patients aged 65 and older are eligible for insurance-covered dentures and up to two dental implants per lifetime, with a copayment of about 30–40%.

Amalgam filling cost in Korea

January 17, 2026

Amalgam Filling Cost in Korea

An amalgam filling is a traditional type of dental restoration made from a blend of metals, including silver, tin, and mercury. It has been widely used for decades to repair cavities, especially in back teeth. Although many patients now prefer tooth-colored composite fillings, amalgam is still offered in some clinics due to its durability and lower cost.

If you are a foreigner in Korea without national health insurance, understanding the amalgam filling cost in Korea helps you plan your dental treatment budget with confidence.

What Is an Amalgam Filling?

An amalgam filling is a strong, long-lasting dental restoration used to fill cavities, particularly in molars that endure heavy chewing forces. Amalgam is less aesthetic than composite resin because it does not match tooth color, but it is often more affordable and durable.

In Korea, amalgam fillings are less common than composite resin restorations, but they are still available and may be recommended based on clinical need and cost considerations.

Average Amalgam Filling Cost in Korea

For foreigners without Korean national health insurance, the amalgam filling cost in Korea typically ranges between:

40,000 to 90,000 KRW per tooth

This price covers the dentist’s time, materials, and the filling procedure itself.

Compared to composite resin fillings (which usually cost more), amalgam fillings are often less expensive. Even so, Korea’s amalgam filling costs are generally competitive with prices in many Western countries.

Amalgam Filling Cost at Different Clinics

Neighborhood Dental Clinics
Local dental clinics often offer amalgam fillings at the lower end of the price range. These clinics handle routine restorative treatments and are an affordable option for basic cavity repair.

Large Dental Hospitals / Cosmetic Dental Centers
Clinics in major areas like Seoul (Gangnam) may charge toward the higher end of the range, even for amalgam fillings. These locations often provide multilingual support and offer various restorative options.

Although amalgam is less aesthetic, it can still be a cost-effective choice, particularly if budget is a priority.

Factors That Affect Amalgam Filling Cost

Several factors influence the amalgam filling cost in Korea:

Tooth Location and Size
Larger cavities or fillings on molars may take longer and require more material, increasing cost.

Clinic Location
Dental clinics in major metropolitan areas may charge more than those in smaller cities or towns.

Additional Services
Fees for X-rays, consultation, or anesthesia may be charged separately.

Anesthesia
Local anesthesia may be included or priced separately depending on the clinic.

Is Amalgam Filling Covered by Insurance?

If you are enrolled in Korean national health insurance (NHIS) and the clinic accepts it, amalgam fillings may be partially covered. With insurance, your out-of-pocket cost can be significantly lower, often around:

10,000 to 40,000 KRW per tooth

Coverage depends on the clinic and insurance policy. Foreigners without NHIS pay the full fee.

Even though amalgam fillings may be cheaper with insurance, many dentists and patients now choose composite resin for aesthetics.

How the Procedure Works

A typical amalgam filling appointment in Korea includes:

Examination and cavity assessment
Local anesthesia (if needed)
Removal of decayed tooth material
Placement of the amalgam filling
Bite adjustment and polishing

The procedure usually takes 30–45 minutes per tooth, depending on cavity size and location.

Pros and Cons of Amalgam Fillings

Pros:

Lower cost than many aesthetic options
Durable and wear-resistant
Good for large cavities in back teeth

Cons:

Metallic appearance
Not tooth-colored
Less commonly used in modern aesthetic dentistry

Final Thoughts on Amalgam Filling Cost in Korea

The amalgam filling cost in Korea for foreign patients without insurance generally ranges from 40,000 to 90,000 KRW per tooth. Amalgam fillings remain one of the more affordable restorative options and may be suitable for patients prioritizing cost over aesthetics.

Before treatment, ask the clinic for a detailed estimate that includes any additional fees such as X-rays or anesthesia to avoid surprises.

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