Retainer cost in Korea

After completing orthodontic treatment with braces or clear aligners, retainers are essential to maintain your new tooth alignment and prevent relapse. In Korea, retainers are offered in several types and price ranges. Below is a clear, clinic-ready overview of the retainer cost in Korea that you can publish on your dental website.



What Are Retainers?

Retainers are custom-made dental appliances worn after orthodontic treatment to hold teeth in their corrected positions. They may be:

• Removable retainers (e.g., Hawley or clear plastic trays)
• Fixed/bonded retainers (thin wire bonded to the back of teeth)

Retention is usually lifelong, though how often retainers are worn can decrease over time.

Average Retainer Cost in Korea

In Korea, the typical cost for retainers varies by type and whether one or both arches are included:

Removable retainers:
KRW 100,000 – KRW 300,000 per arch

Fixed (bonded) retainers:
KRW 200,000 – KRW 500,000 per arch

These price ranges reflect common non-insured fees at private orthodontic and general dental clinics.

Cost by Retainer Type

Removable Clear Plastic Retainers

• Price range: KRW 100,000 – KRW 300,000 per arch
  Clear plastic retainers (similar to aligner trays) are discreet and easy to wear, but they rely on patient compliance.

Hawley Retainers (Acrylic + Wire)

• Price range: KRW 150,000 – KRW 300,000 per arch
  Hawley retainers consist of a wire across the front teeth and an acrylic base, with good durability and adjustability.

Fixed/Bonded Retainers

• Price range: KRW 200,000 – KRW 500,000 per arch
  Bonded retainers involve a thin wire permanently attached to the back of the front teeth. They work well for upper or lower anterior retention.

What Is Included in the Retainer Fee

Most clinics include:

• Retainer fabrication (custom fit)
• Delivery and initial fit/check
• Instructions for wear and care

Some clinics may include follow-up adjustments within a limited period, but long-term adjustments or replacements may be charged separately.

Factors That Affect Retainer Cost

Number of Arches Treated

Costs increase if retainers are made for both upper and lower arches.

Material and Design

Clear plastic retainers may cost differently than Hawley or bonded designs.

Clinic Location and Expertise

Orthodontic specialists or clinics in metropolitan areas like Seoul may have higher pricing relative to smaller cities.

Insurance and Payment in Korea

• Retainers are generally considered non-insured treatments, meaning patients typically pay out of pocket.
• National health insurance does not usually cover retention devices after orthodontics.
• Some private dental insurance plans may offer partial reimbursement depending on the policy terms.
• Foreign patients typically pay standard private clinic rates.

Number of Visits Required

Retainer fitting usually requires:

1. Impression or digital scan
2. Delivery and fit appointment
3. Occasional follow-up for adjustments (if needed)

Fixed retainers are bonded in place during the delivery visit.

Final Thoughts on Retainer Cost in Korea

The retainer cost in Korea typically ranges from KRW 100,000 to KRW 500,000 per arch, depending on the type of retainer and the clinic. Retainers are a vital part of maintaining orthodontic results, so discussing retention plans and costs with your orthodontist before completing active treatment is recommended.