Foreigners dental treatment cost in Korea

Many international patients choose Korea for dental care because of modern clinics, experienced professionals, and competitive pricing. However, foreigners generally pay private (self-pay) rates for dental treatment, as national health insurance benefits usually do not apply. Below is a clear, clinic-ready overview of typical dental treatment costs that foreigners can expect in Korea.



How Dental Fees Work for Foreign Patients

• Foreigners typically pay full private clinic prices unless they have Korean National Health Insurance or specific international coverage.
• National Health Insurance benefits for residents do not usually apply to short-term visitors.
• Some clinics offer all-inclusive packages for popular treatments (implants, braces, whitening, etc.).
• Pricing may vary by clinic, city (e.g., Seoul vs. regional cities), and treatment complexity.

General Cost Ranges for Common Dental Treatments

Check-Up / Examination

KRW 20,000 – KRW 50,000
Basic dental examination and treatment planning.

Dental X-Rays

KRW 20,000 – KRW 60,000
Used to assess caries, biting relationships, and bone levels.

Dental Cleaning (Prophylaxis)

KRW 30,000 – KRW 80,000

Fluoride Treatment

KRW 20,000 – KRW 50,000

Tooth Filling (Composite/Resin)

KRW 50,000 – KRW 150,000 per tooth

Simple Tooth Extraction

KRW 30,000 – KRW 120,000 per tooth

Surgical (Impacted) Tooth Extraction

KRW 100,000 – KRW 350,000+ per tooth

Root Canal Treatment

KRW 200,000 – KRW 600,000+ per tooth
Cost depends on tooth type (front vs. molar) and complexity.

Dental Crowns

• Porcelain / PFM Crown: KRW 400,000 – KRW 700,000
• Zirconia Crown: KRW 500,000 – KRW 1,000,000+
• Gold Crown: KRW 700,000 – KRW 1,300,000+

Dental Implants (Fixture + Abutment + Crown)

KRW 1,000,000 – KRW 2,800,000+ per implant

Bone Grafting (for Implant)

KRW 300,000 – KRW 1,200,000+ per site

Sinus Lift Surgery

KRW 800,000 – KRW 2,500,000+ per side

Orthodontics (Braces & Aligners)

• Metal Braces: KRW 2,000,000 – KRW 4,000,000
• Ceramic Braces: KRW 3,000,000 – KRW 5,000,000
• Lingual Braces: KRW 5,000,000 – KRW 10,000,000+
• Clear Aligners: KRW 3,500,000 – KRW 8,000,000+

Retention (Post-Orthodontic)

KRW 100,000 – KRW 500,000 per arch

Periodontal (Gum) Surgery

• Flap Surgery: KRW 500,000 – KRW 1,000,000+ per quadrant
• Crown Lengthening: KRW 500,000 – KRW 1,200,000+

Sedation & Anesthesia

• Nitrous Oxide: KRW 100,000 – KRW 200,000
• Oral Sedation: KRW 150,000 – KRW 300,000
• IV Sedation: KRW 300,000 – KRW 600,000+
• General Anesthesia: KRW 500,000 – KRW 1,200,000+

Factors That Can Affect Cost

Clinic Location

Dental clinics in busy districts of Seoul or tourist areas may have higher fees than regional clinics.

Treatment Complexity

More difficult cases, retakes, and specialized procedures require more time and cost more.

Technology and Materials

Digital scanning, same-day crowns, premium ceramics, or imported implant systems influence pricing.

Number of Visits

Some clinics charge per visit, others bundle multiple visits into one fee.

Payment and Insurance Options

• Most clinics accept major credit cards and international payment methods.
• Some offer treatment financing plans or installment payment options.
• Private international health insurance may reimburse part of the cost depending on your policy.
• National Health Insurance coverage typically does not apply for foreigners without residency.

Tips for Foreign Patients Seeking Dental Care in Korea

• Ask for a detailed quote before treatment begins.
• Confirm whether the price is per tooth, per arch, or all-inclusive.
• For extensive care (implants, orthodontics), discuss a payment and scheduling plan.
• Check if your home insurance will reimburse dental fees abroad.

Final Thoughts on Dental Costs for Foreigners in Korea

Foreign patients can expect high standards of dental care in Korea with transparent pricing. Typical treatment costs range widely depending on procedure type, from simple preventive care at low rates to surgical and restorative procedures that align with private dental practice fees.

A consultation with a Korean dentist will provide a tailored treatment plan and an exact estimate based on your specific condition and needs.