Deep dental cleaning cost in Korea

Deep dental cleaning—often referred to as periodontal scaling and root planing—goes beyond routine cleaning. It targets plaque and tartar buildup below the gumline and is usually recommended for patients with gum inflammation, periodontitis, or signs of gum disease.



If you are a foreigner living in Korea or considering dental treatment there, understanding the deep dental cleaning cost in Korea will help you plan your care and budget effectively.

What Is Deep Dental Cleaning?

Deep dental cleaning is more extensive than standard dental scaling. While routine cleaning focuses on removing surface plaque and tartar above the gumline, deep cleaning:

• Removes hardened tartar below the gumline
• Smooths root surfaces
• Helps reduce gum pocket depths
• Improves overall gum health

This treatment is often recommended after a periodontal examination where the dentist measures gum pocket depths and assesses bone support.

Deep cleaning may be done quadrant by quadrant (one section of the mouth at a time), depending on the severity of the gum disease.

Average Deep Dental Cleaning Cost in Korea

For foreigners without Korean national health insurance, the deep dental cleaning cost in Korea typically ranges from about 150,000 to 300,000 KRW per quadrant.
If the entire mouth requires treatment (all four quadrants), total fees can range from 600,000 to 1,200,000 KRW or more, depending on the clinic and severity.

For patients covered under Korean national health insurance (NHIS), deep cleaning is often subsidized. Insurance may cover a portion of the cost if gum disease is diagnosed, potentially reducing your out-of-pocket expense significantly.

Costs can vary based on several factors, but even at the higher end, deep cleaning in Korea is generally more affordable compared with similar procedures in the United States, Canada, or Europe.

Factors That Affect Deep Cleaning Cost in Korea

Several key factors influence the deep dental cleaning cost in Korea:

Clinic Type
Neighborhood dental clinics typically charge lower fees than large dental hospitals or specialty periodontal centers.

Severity of Gum Condition
More advanced gum disease usually requires more time, more visits, and higher fees due to the extensive cleaning needed.

Number of Quadrants Treated
Deep cleaning may be charged per quadrant. Treating all four quadrants in one or separate visits increases the total cost.

Additional Treatments
In some cases, adjunctive treatments such as localized antibiotics, laser therapy, or periodontal maintenance visits may be recommended, which can add to the total cost.

Location
Clinics in major metropolitan areas like Seoul, Busan, or Daegu may charge slightly higher fees compared to smaller towns.

Language Support
Clinics offering English, Japanese, Chinese, or other foreign language support may have slightly higher fees, though the price difference is usually modest.

How Deep Dental Cleaning Is Performed in Korea

A typical deep dental cleaning appointment in Korea includes:

1. A detailed periodontal assessment including gum pocket measurements
2. Local anesthesia (if needed) for comfort
3. Scaling below the gumline with specialized instruments
4. Root planing to smooth and clean root surfaces
5. Post-treatment instructions for gum health maintenance

A single quadrant may take 45 to 90 minutes, and dentists may schedule multiple visits to complete treatment safely and comfortably.

Is Deep Cleaning Included in Regular Dental Cleaning?

Deep dental cleaning is not included in routine dental scaling or check-ups. It is considered a treatment for gum disease rather than a preventive procedure.

Most Korean dental clinics will:

• Charge a separate treatment fee for deep cleaning
• Provide a periodontal evaluation to justify the recommendation
• Offer cost estimates before treatment starts

Patients should clarify the scope of work and total cost before committing to deep cleaning.

Is It Worth Getting Deep Dental Cleaning in Korea?

Many foreigners find deep dental cleaning in Korea to be both effective and cost-effective. Korean dentists use modern periodontal instruments and techniques, and clinics maintain high standards of hygiene and patient care.

Early treatment of periodontal disease can prevent tooth loss, reduce inflammation, and improve overall oral health. Since deep cleaning targets hidden tartar beneath the gumline, it is often a vital step before considering implants, crowns, or orthodontic work.

Final Thoughts on Deep Dental Cleaning Cost in Korea

The deep dental cleaning cost in Korea for foreigners generally ranges from 150,000 to 300,000 KRW per quadrant, with full-mouth treatment totaling 600,000 to 1,200,000 KRW or more. Prices may be lower with national health insurance coverage.

Understanding how deep cleaning is priced, what affects the cost, and why it is recommended can help you make informed decisions about your dental health in Korea.