Dental treatment cost without insurance in Korea

If you are a foreigner in Korea without Korean national health insurance (NHIS), you will pay the full out-of-pocket cost for dental treatment. While Korea is known for high-quality dental care, understanding dental treatment costs without insurance helps you plan and budget before visiting a clinic.



This guide explains common dental procedures, typical prices without insurance in Korea, and what affects the total cost for foreign patients.

How Dental Pricing Works in Korea (No Insurance)

When you pay out of pocket, Korean dental clinics charge a listed treatment fee for each service. Prices vary by:

• Clinic type: Neighborhood clinic vs large dental hospital
• Location: Seoul and major cities tend to be slightly higher
• Procedure complexity: Simple vs advanced treatment
• Materials used: Standard vs premium (ceramic, zirconia, etc.)
• Language support: English-friendly clinics may charge slightly more

Even without insurance, Korean dental prices are often lower than in the US, Canada, Australia, or many European countries, while maintaining high standards of care and modern equipment.

Typical Dental Treatment Costs in Korea (No Insurance)

Here are common dental services with approximate prices foreign patients pay without insurance:

Dental Consultation

• 20,000 – 40,000 KRW
  Dentist evaluation and treatment planning.

Dental Check-Up

• 20,000 – 50,000 KRW
  Includes oral exam; may not include X-rays.

Dental X-Ray

• 10,000 – 20,000 KRW per image
• 20,000 – 40,000 KRW for panoramic X-ray

Teeth Cleaning (Scaling)

• 50,000 – 100,000 KRW
  Routine cleaning to remove plaque and tartar.

Deep Cleaning (Periodontal Scaling)

• 150,000 – 300,000 KRW per quadrant
• 600,000 – 1,200,000 KRW for full mouth

Tooth Filling

• 60,000 – 120,000 KRW for standard composite filling
  Premium materials may cost more.

Root Canal Treatment

• 100,000 – 200,000 KRW+
  Varies by tooth location and complexity.

Tooth Extraction

• 50,000 – 150,000 KRW
  Simple extraction without sedation.

Wisdom Tooth Removal

• 100,000 – 300,000+ KRW
  More for impacted or surgical cases.

Dental Implants

• 600,000 – 2,000,000+ KRW per implant
  Price varies by brand, materials, and bone graft needs.

Dental Crowns

• 150,000 – 600,000+ KRW per crown
  Zirconia, porcelain, and premium materials cost more.

Veneers

• 300,000 – 800,000+ KRW per tooth
  Ceramic or aesthetic materials are higher.

Orthodontics (Braces / Aligners)

• 2,000,000 – 6,000,000+ KRW
  Metal braces cheaper; clear aligners often higher.

3D Dental CT Scan

• 80,000 – 200,000 KRW per scan

Dental Anesthesia (Sedation)

• 80,000 – 300,000 KRW+
  General anesthesia often 300,000 KRW and up

Emergency Dental Treatment

• 30,000 – 60,000 KRW (emergency consultation)
• 50,000 – 200,000+ KRW for urgent procedures

Prices above are approximate ranges and can vary based on clinic and case complexity.

What’s Typically Included vs Extra

Many clinics charge treatment fees without including:

• X-rays
• Scaling or polishing
• Local anesthesia (sometimes included)
• Sedation or general anesthesia
• 3D imaging
• After-care or follow-up visits

It’s recommended to ask for a written estimate before treatment begins.

Why Dental Fees Are Affordable in Korea

Even without insurance, dental prices in Korea are competitive due to:

• High patient volume and clinic competition
• Efficient care models with modern equipment
• Standardized pricing frameworks
• Introduction of digital dentistry and fast diagnostics

These factors help keep costs lower than in many other developed countries.

Tips for Foreigners Paying Out of Pocket

To manage and reduce dental costs:

• Ask for a cost estimate before treatment
• Compare quotes from 2–3 clinics
• Choose neighborhood clinics for routine care
• Bundle services (check-up + X-rays + cleaning) if available
• Schedule scaling before major procedures to reduce complications
• Check travel insurance for possible dental reimbursement

Final Thoughts on Dental Treatment Cost Without Insurance in Korea

Paying out of pocket for dental treatment in Korea is straightforward and transparent. While prices vary by clinic type and procedure complexity, many common dental services are affordable compared to Western countries.

By understanding typical treatment costs—such as check-ups, scaling, fillings, implants, and orthodontics—foreigners can confidently plan dental care in Korea with realistic budgeting and informed decision-making.