Direct fillings
Tooth rebuilt in the chair, usually in one visit.
- Tooth-coloured composite resin
- Shade-matched
- Front and back teeth
Gangnam Seoul · Fillings and decay treatment in English
Cavity Treatment in Gangnam Seoul
A dark spot, a hole or sensitivity to sweets? Caught early, most cavities need only a simple filling.
In short: cavity treatment removes tooth decay and rebuilds the tooth. Small and medium cavities are usually restored with a tooth-coloured composite filling in one visit; larger ones may need an inlay, onlay or crown. Early treatment helps avoid pain and a root canal later.
English-speaking team · Saturday appointments · Cheongdam Station Exit 14
Since 1996
Treating cavities in Gangnam for 30 years
- Dr. Hyo-Jin Lee Lead Dentist, conservative dentistry & root canals
- SNU-trained Every dentist trained at Seoul National University
- In-house lab Inlays, onlays and crowns made on site
- NHIS · TRICARE Korean NHIS, TRICARE Dental and major private insurers
Understanding tooth decay
What is a cavity?
A cavity is a hole caused by decay. Plaque bacteria turn sugar into acid that dissolves enamel; untreated, decay spreads into the dentine (inner layer) and towards the nerve.
Cavity treatment is overseen by Dr. Hyo-Jin Lee, our Lead Dentist for Conservative Dentistry, with a focus on keeping as much healthy tooth as possible.
Inlays, onlays & crowns
Stronger restorations made in our in-house lab.
- Inlay or onlay
- Crown for weakened teeth
- Usually two visits
When to see a dentist
Signs of a cavity
Early cavities often have no symptoms.
- Sensitivity to sweet, hot or cold
- A brown, black or chalky spot
- A hole you can feel
- Food catching between teeth
- Pain when biting
Risk factors
Common causes
- Frequent sugary snacks or drinks
- Irregular brushing or flossing
- Dry mouth
- Old, leaking fillings
- Long gaps between check-ups
How we treat it
Your cavity treatment, step by step.
Most fillings are done in one visit under local anaesthetic.
- 1
Examination
X-rays show how deep the decay goes.
First visit - 2
Numbing
Local anaesthetic when needed.
Treatment visit - 3
Removing decay
Only the decayed part is removed.
Same visit - 4
Restoring
Filling placed, or tooth prepared for an inlay or crown.
1 or 2 visits - 5
Bite check
Adjusted and polished to feel natural.
Before you leave
Options at a glance
Cavity treatment options
The right option depends on the size and position of the cavity.
| Treatment | Best for | What it involves |
|---|---|---|
| Composite filling | Small to medium cavities | Tooth-coloured resin, one visit |
| Inlay, onlay or ceramic | Larger cavities, old fillings | Lab-made, usually two visits |
| Root canal | Decay reaching the nerve | Canals cleaned and sealed |
Costs depend on your diagnosis and the treatment you choose. After your examination we give you a written, itemised quote in English before any treatment begins.
For international patients
Getting a cavity treated in Seoul
Most fillings take one visit — ideal for busy expats and short stays. Saturdays available.
- Expats & residents: NHIS covers some filling types; resin coverage is limited.
- U.S. military families: we work with the TRICARE Dental Program.
- Visitors: English receipts and treatment notes for your insurer.
A typical visit plan
- Day 1
Examination, X-rays and a plan in English.
- Same day
Most composite fillings completed.
- A few days later
Inlay, onlay or crown fitted, if needed.
- Ongoing
Check-ups every 6–12 months.
Several teeth to treat? We can group them into fewer, longer visits.
After treatment
After your filling
A few habits help fillings last:
- Wait for numbness to wear off before eating
- Mild sensitivity usually settles in days
- Brush with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily
- Cut down on sugary snacks
- Tell us if your bite feels high
Questions patients ask us
Cavity treatment FAQ
Can a cavity heal on its own?
Very early enamel changes can sometimes be stopped with fluoride, but once a hole forms it must be cleaned and filled.
Does getting a filling hurt?
Fillings are usually done under local anaesthetic, so most patients feel only pressure. Mild sensitivity may last a few days.
How much does cavity treatment cost in Gangnam?
Cost depends on your diagnosis, the materials and the number of teeth or visits involved. After your examination we give you a written, itemised quote in English before any treatment begins.
What if I leave a cavity untreated?
Decay keeps spreading and can reach the nerve, causing pain or infection that may need a root canal.
Can I get a filling during a short trip to Seoul?
Yes. Most composite fillings are done in one visit, often on the day of your examination.
Where is A Plus Dental Clinic and how do I book?
We are on the 3rd floor of the Samgang Building, 704 Yeongdong-daero, Gangnam-gu — right outside Exit 14 of Cheongdam Station (Line 7). Book on WhatsApp at +82 10-9325-2875.
Come and say hello
Sensitive tooth? Let's take a look.
Message us in English — we'll find a time that suits you and explain what to expect.
- Address
- 3F Samgang Building, 704 Yeongdong-daero, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
- Subway
- Cheongdam Station (Line 7), right outside Exit 14
- Hours
- Mon–Fri 9:30–18:00 (lunch 12:30–13:00)
Saturday 9:00–13:00 (no lunch break)
Closed Sundays & public holidays - +82 10-9325-2875
- Phone
- +82 10-9325-2875
This page is for general information and does not replace an examination by a dentist. A Plus Dental Clinic · Gangnam, Seoul · Since 1996 · Last updated October 2026
