Single Canal Root Canal Cost in Korea

A single canal root canal is an endodontic procedure used to treat a tooth with a single root canal (typically a front tooth or some premolars). Because it involves fewer canals than multi-canal molars, the cost is generally lower and the procedure can be faster.



If you’re a foreigner in Korea without Korean National Health Insurance (NHIS), understanding the single canal root canal cost in Korea helps you plan your dental visit and avoid surprise charges.

What Is a Single Canal Root Canal?

A root canal treatment removes infected or inflamed pulp (nerve tissue) from inside a tooth and seals it to prevent reinfection. A single canal root canal refers to a tooth that has only one root canal to be cleaned, shaped, and filled—commonly an incisor or some premolars.

This is different from:

• Two-canal root canals (often some premolars)
• Three or more canal root canals (typically molars)

Because there is just one canal to treat, the procedure is usually quicker and less expensive.

Average Single Canal Root Canal Cost in Korea

For foreigners without Korean national health insurance, the single canal root canal cost in Korea typically ranges between:

• 120,000 – 200,000 KRW

This price range reflects the dentist’s fee for cleaning, shaping, disinfection, and sealing of the single canal under local anesthesia. Exact pricing may vary slightly by clinic, region, and any diagnostic imaging required.

Cost at Different Clinic Types

Neighborhood Dental Clinics
Standard dental offices typically offer single canal root canal treatment at the lower to mid range of the cost scale. These clinics handle most endodontic treatments efficiently.

Specialized Endodontic Centers & Hospitals
Clinics in metropolitan areas such as Seoul (Gangnam, Apgujeong) may charge toward the higher end due to advanced equipment, endodontic specialists, or digital imaging tools.

Even at premium clinics, single canal root canal costs in Korea remain competitive when compared to similar treatments in many Western countries.

What’s Usually Included in the Cost

Quoted prices for a single canal root canal in Korea typically include:

• Initial clinical exam and diagnosis
• Local anesthesia (standard)
• Removal of infected pulp
• Cleaning and shaping of the canal
• Sealing and filling the canal
• Standard post-treatment instructions

Many clinics also include basic X-rays in the treatment cost, but you should confirm this before your appointment.

What’s Not Usually Included

Fees that may be charged separately include:

• Detailed consultation/check-up fee
• Advanced imaging (panoramic X-ray or 3D CT scan)
• Final restoration (such as a crown)
• Sedation or specialized anesthesia (if requested)
• Follow-up visits outside of standard care

Requesting a written cost estimate before treatment helps you understand what is included and what is extra.

Crown After Single Canal Root Canal (Separate Cost)

After a root canal—even a single canal—your dentist often recommends a crown to protect the treated tooth from fracture. Crown prices in Korea are usually separate from root canal fees:

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

If a post-and-core buildup is required for structural support before the crown, it may cost an additional 80,000 – 200,000 KRW.

Factors That Affect Cost

The price of a single canal root canal in Korea can be influenced by:

Clinic Location and Reputation
Premium clinics or those in central urban districts may charge more.

Diagnostic Imaging
Additional X-rays or CT scans can increase the total cost.

Procedure Complexity
Complicated canals—even single ones—may take more time.

Anesthesia/Sedation Options
Standard local anesthesia is usually included; sedation is extra.

Insurance and Payment Options

Korean National Health Insurance (NHIS)
If you are enrolled in NHIS and visit a clinic that accepts it, basic endodontic treatment (including single canal root canals) may be partially covered, lowering your out-of-pocket cost. Coverage varies by treatment and clinic.

Foreigners Without Insurance
You pay the full cost out of pocket. Travel insurance may reimburse some expenses depending on your policy.

Single Canal vs Multi-Canal Root Canal

• Single Canal: Lower cost (120,000 – 200,000 KRW)
• Two Canal: Moderate cost
• Three or More Canals: Higher cost
  The more canals involved, the more time and materials are needed, increasing treatment cost.
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Is Single Canal Root Canal Worth It in Korea?

Many foreign patients find root canal treatment in Korea to be cost-effective with high clinical standards. Korean dentists use modern techniques, instruments, and infection control, making the procedure efficient and comfortable.

Prompt treatment can save your natural tooth, reduce pain, and prevent more complex dental work later.

Final Thoughts on Single Canal Root Canal Cost in Korea

The single canal root canal cost in Korea for foreign patients without insurance generally ranges from 120,000 to 200,000 KRW. This price reflects a complete endodontic procedure for a tooth with only one canal.

Prices may vary slightly based on clinic type, location, and any additional imaging or anesthesia requested. Getting a clear cost estimate before treatment ensures transparency and confident decision-making.