Retreatment Root Canal Cost in Korea

A retreatment root canal (also called endodontic retreatment) is a procedure used when a previously treated root canal fails — for example, due to persistent infection, reinfection, missed canals, or inadequate sealing. Retreatment is more complex than a first-time root canal because the dentist must remove old filling material, clean all canals properly, and then reseal them.



If you’re a foreigner in Korea without Korean National Health Insurance (NHIS), understanding the retreatment root canal cost in Korea helps you prepare financially and make informed decisions before treatment.

What Is Retreatment Root Canal?

Retreatment root canal involves:

• Removing old root canal filling material
• Locating and cleaning all previously untreated or missed canals
• Disinfecting the full canal system
• Reshaping and filling the canals
• Sealing the tooth to prevent reinfection

Retreatment is typically recommended when:

• Pain returns after initial root canal
• Persistent swelling or infection develops
• X-rays show incomplete canal cleaning
• A crack or leakage exists around the original filling

Because the procedure must undo prior work and correct infection pathways, it takes more time and expertise.

Average Retreatment Root Canal Cost in Korea (No Insurance)

For foreigners without Korean NHIS, the retreatment root canal cost in Korea is generally higher than a first-time root canal. Typical price ranges include:

• Incisor/Canine Retreatment: 180,000 – 300,000 KRW
• Premolar Retreatment: 220,000 – 380,000 KRW
• Molar Retreatment: 300,000 – 500,000 KRW or more

These figures reflect the complexity of accessing and cleaning previously treated canals, especially in molars with multiple or curved canals.

Some clinics charge a flat retreatment fee, while others base pricing on tooth type and canal complexity.

Why Retreatment Costs More Than Initial Root Canal

Retreatment root canal costs more due to:

• Removal of existing filling material
• More clinical time and expertise
• Potential need for advanced tools or microscopes
• Higher risk of complications
• Complex canal anatomy after prior treatment

Experienced endodontic specialists and advanced imaging tools often improve success rates but may also increase costs.

Retreatment Costs at Different Clinics

Neighborhood Dental Clinics
Standard dental clinics typically offer retreatment at the lower to mid-range pricing. These clinics are suitable for routine retreatments and basic cases.

Endodontic Specialists & Large Dental Hospitals
Clinics in areas like Seoul (Gangnam, Apgujeong) or those with endodontic specialists and high-tech equipment (microscope-assisted, digital imaging) may charge toward the higher end of the range due to advanced skills and diagnostic support.

Even at premium clinics, retreatment root canal costs in Korea remain competitive compared to prices in many Western countries.

What’s Typically Included in the Cost

Quoted retreatment fees in Korea often include:

• Initial examination and diagnosis
• Local anesthesia
• Removal of old canal filling
• Cleaning and disinfecting canals
• Sealing and filling the canals
• Basic post-treatment review

Some clinics include X-rays in the cost, but confirm this before treatment begins.

What’s Not Usually Included

The retreatment cost may not include:

• Consultation or detailed check-up fee
• Advanced imaging (3D CT scan)
• Final restoration or crown replacement
• Sedation or specialized anesthesia
• Additional antibiotics or medication

Ask the clinic for a detailed estimate that outlines all included and optional fees.

Crown After Retreatment (Separate Cost)

After root canal retreatment, placing a protective crown is often recommended, especially for molars. Crown costs in Korea typically include:

• Standard ceramic/porcelain crown: 150,000 – 400,000 KRW
• Zirconia / Premium crown: 300,000 – 600,000+ KRW

If a post-and-core buildup is needed before crown placement, this may cost an additional 80,000 – 200,000 KRW.

Factors That Affect Retreatment Cost

Several elements influence pricing:

Tooth Type and Canal Complexity
Molars with multiple or curved canals are more complex and costly.

Clinic Reputation and Location
Premium clinics or endodontic specialists in central districts are generally pricier.

Diagnostic Needs
Advanced imaging like 3D CT scans adds to the total cost but improves accuracy.

Technology Used
Microscope-assisted retreatment and rotary instruments may increase fees.

Anesthesia Options
Standard local anesthesia is often included; sedation is extra.

Is Retreatment Covered by Insurance in Korea?

If you’re enrolled in Korean National Health Insurance (NHIS) and the clinic accepts it, basic retreatment may be partially covered. Insurance can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket costs for necessary endodontic therapy.

Foreigners without NHIS pay the full cost out-of-pocket. Travel insurance policies may reimburse part of the expense depending on coverage terms.

Why Retreatment Can Be Worth It

A successful retreatment can:

• Relieve persistent or returning pain
• Save the natural tooth
• Prevent extraction or implants
• Stop the spread of infection

Korean dentists use modern techniques and quality materials, often making retreatment an effective and affordable option compared to extraction and replacement.

Final Thoughts on Retreatment Root Canal Cost in Korea

The retreatment root canal cost in Korea for foreign patients without insurance typically ranges from:

• Incisor/Canine: 180,000 – 300,000 KRW
• Premolar: 220,000 – 380,000 KRW
• Molar: 300,000 – 500,000 KRW or more

These ranges reflect the complexity and expertise required. A crown afterward is usually priced separately.

Understanding typical costs, what’s included, and how fees vary by clinic helps you plan dental care in Korea with clarity and confidence.