Temporary Filling Cost in Korea
Temporary Filling Cost in Korea
A temporary filling is a short-term dental restoration used to protect a tooth that is waiting for a permanent filling, crown, or further treatment. Temporary fillings are commonly placed after emergency visits, root canal preparation, or when a permanent restoration cannot yet be completed.
ο»Ώ
If you are a foreigner in Korea without national health insurance, understanding the temporary filling cost in Korea helps you plan your dental visit and budget more accurately.
What Is a Temporary Filling?
A temporary filling is made from a soft or semi-rigid dental material that protects a tooth between dental appointments. It seals the cavity or treated area to:
- Prevent food and bacteria from entering
- Reduce sensitivity or pain
- Maintain space until final restoration
Temporary fillings are not meant to last long-term; they are typically replaced with a permanent restoration (e.g., composite, ceramic, crown) soon after.
Average Temporary Filling Cost in Korea
For foreigners without Korean national health insurance, the temporary filling cost in Korea generally ranges from:
- 20,000 to 60,000 KRW per tooth
This fee reflects the simplicity of the procedure and the lower material cost compared to permanent fillings. Temporary fillings are one of the more affordable dental services.
In some clinics, the cost may vary depending on:
- The position of the tooth
- Amount of decay or damage
- Whether anesthesia is needed
- Clinic pricing policies
Even with these differences, temporary fillings in Korea are typically affordable compared with prices in many Western countries.
Temporary Filling Cost at Different Clinics
Neighborhood Dental Clinics
Local dental clinics usually offer temporary fillings at the
lower end of the price range. These clinics handle routine and emergency procedures efficiently.
Large Dental Hospitals / Cosmetic Centers
Clinics in areas such as
Seoul (Gangnam, Itaewon) or specialty dental centers may charge slightly higher fees, especially if the service is combined with emergency care or advanced diagnostics.
Regardless of the clinic type, temporary filling costs in Korea remain budget-friendly compared to international standards.
What’s Typically Included in the Cost
The quoted temporary filling fee in Korea usually includes:
- Dental examination
- Cavity preparation
- Placement of temporary filling material
- Basic polish or finish
Some clinics include local anesthesia in the total fee, while others may charge anesthesia separately.
What’s Not Usually Included
The temporary filling price often does not include:
- Permanent filling or final restoration
- X-rays or panoramic imaging
- Root canal treatment
- Follow-up visits beyond placement
- Sedation (if requested)
Ask your dentist for a detailed estimate that outlines both included and optional services.
Factors That Affect Temporary Filling Cost
Several factors can influence the temporary filling price:
Tooth Location
Back teeth (molars) may cost more due to access and material handling.
Anesthesia
If local anesthesia is required, some clinics may add a separate charge.
Emergency vs Scheduled Appointment
Emergency visits outside normal hours may have additional fees.
Clinic Location
Clinics in central metropolitan areas may charge slightly higher fees than those in smaller towns.
Is Temporary Filling Covered by Insurance?
If you are enrolled in Korean national health insurance (NHIS) and visit a clinic that accepts NHIS, a temporary filling may be partially covered, significantly reducing your out-of-pocket cost.
With insurance, your expense might be closer to:
- 5,000 to 20,000 KRW per tooth
Coverage depends on clinic policies and insurance rules, so confirm before treatment.
Foreigners without NHIS pay the full listed fee.
How a Temporary Filling Works
A typical temporary filling procedure in Korea includes:
- Dental exam and decay assessment
- Local anesthesia (if needed)
- Removal of decayed or loose material
- Placement of temporary material
- Bite adjustment and finish
The appointment usually takes 15–30 minutes per tooth.
When Temporary Fillings Are Used
Temporary fillings are commonly placed when:
- You need emergency relief from pain
- Treatment must be staged (e.g., root canal later)
- A permanent restoration is delayed
- You’re being evaluated before cosmetic or major dental work
Temporary fillings provide protection until a permanent solution is ready.
Final Thoughts on Temporary Filling Cost in Korea
The temporary filling cost in Korea for foreign patients without insurance typically ranges from 20,000 to 60,000 KRW per tooth. Even at the higher end, this treatment remains affordable compared with international dental costs.
Understanding what is included, whether anesthesia is charged separately, and how pricing varies by clinic helps you plan your dental care in Korea with confidence.
