Gold Inlay Cost in Korea
This is a subtitle for your new post
Gold inlays are high-quality, durable dental restorations used to repair moderate tooth decay or damage. Made from a gold alloy, these restorations are strong, long-lasting, and biocompatible. While not as common as tooth-colored options, gold inlays remain a preferred choice for many patients who value durability over appearance.
ο»Ώ
If you’re a foreigner considering gold inlay treatment in Korea, understanding the gold inlay cost in Korea helps you estimate your budget and plan your visit with confidence.
What Is a Gold Inlay?
A gold inlay is a custom-made dental restoration fitted into the biting surface of a tooth. It is typically used when the decay or damage is too extensive for a simple filling but not severe enough to require a crown.
Compared to composite or ceramic options, gold inlays offer:
- Exceptional durability
- Excellent wear resistance
- Long service life
- Biocompatibility
Because they are metal, gold inlays are more noticeable, making them a less aesthetic option for front teeth but a strong choice for molars and chewing surfaces.
Average Gold Inlay Cost in Korea
For foreigners without Korean national health insurance, the gold inlay cost in Korea generally ranges between:
- 400,000 to 900,000 KRW per tooth
This price reflects the material cost, laboratory fabrication, and the dental procedure. Gold inlays are more expensive than standard composite or amalgam fillings due to the cost of materials and craftsmanship involved in fabrication.
Even so, gold inlay costs in Korea are often competitive compared to prices in many Western countries.
Gold Inlay Costs at Different Dental Clinics
Neighborhood Dental Clinics
These clinics may offer gold inlays toward the lower end of the price range. They handle routine restorative treatments and serve local patients efficiently.
Major Dental Hospitals / Cosmetic Dental Centers
Clinics in central metropolitan districts such as
Seoul (Gangnam) or high-end cosmetic dental centers may charge toward the higher end of the range due to advanced technology, specialized technicians, and premium service.
Regardless of location, Korean dental clinics tend to provide clear estimates and skilled craftsmanship in dental restorations.
What’s Typically Included in the Cost
The quoted gold inlay cost in Korea usually covers:
- Initial consultation and tooth assessment
- Tooth preparation
- Impression or digital scan
- Laboratory fabrication of the gold inlay
- Final placement and adjustment
Some clinics also include local anesthesia in the overall price, but it’s best to confirm this before treatment.
What’s Not Usually Included
Prices may not include:
- Separate dental check-up or exam fee
- X-rays or panoramic imaging
- Temporary restorations (if needed)
- Sedation anesthesia (if requested)
- Gum health treatment before restoration
- Follow-up visits outside basic placement
Before treatment, ask your clinic for a full written estimate outlining inclusions and exclusions.
Factors That Affect Gold Inlay Cost
Several elements influence pricing:
Material Price Fluctuations
Gold alloy composition and market gold value can affect final cost.
Number of Teeth Treated
More inlays increase total cost proportionally.
Clinic Location and Reputation
Clinics in prime areas or with established reputations may charge higher fees.
Lab Work Quality and Technology
High-precision CAD/CAM work or premium lab partnerships may add to the price.
Is Gold Inlay Covered by Insurance?
Gold inlays are generally considered premium or elective restorations and are not typically covered by Korean national health insurance (NHIS). Even for insured residents, you would usually pay the full price out of pocket.
Some clinics may offer discounted package pricing when combining multiple restorations.
How a Gold Inlay Procedure Works
A gold inlay procedure typically involves:
- Dental examination and X-ray
- Tooth preparation (removal of decay/damage)
- Impression or digital scanning
- Lab fabrication of the gold inlay
- Fit check and placement
- Bite adjustment and polishing
The process may take two or more visits, depending on whether digital fabrication is used.
Benefits and Considerations
Benefits:
- Extremely durable and long-lasting
- Excellent fit and strength
- Biocompatible with minimal wear
Considerations:
- More expensive than composite or ceramic fillings
- Visible metallic appearance
- Not typically used for front/frontesthetic areas
Gold inlays are a great option for patients seeking longevity and strength in posterior teeth.
Final Thoughts on Gold Inlay Cost in Korea
The gold inlay cost in Korea for foreigners typically ranges from 400,000 to 900,000 KRW per tooth. Price varies based on clinic, material costs, and complexity of fabrication. Although more expensive than standard fillings, gold inlays offer exceptional durability and are cost-effective compared to similar services in many Western countries.
Before proceeding, ask the clinic for a detailed written estimate that includes all associated fees so you can plan your dental care confidently.
