How Much Does Root Canal Treatment Cost in Korea
Root canal treatment in South Korea is widely regarded as high quality, efficient, and affordable compared to the US, UK, Europe, and Australia. Thanks to advanced dental technology, experienced dentists, and transparent pricing, many local and international patients choose Korea for endodontic treatment.
This guide explains how much root canal treatment costs in Korea in 2026, what affects the price, and what patients should expect during treatment.
What Is Root Canal Treatment?
Root canal treatment is a dental procedure used to remove infected or damaged pulp inside a tooth. The tooth is then cleaned, disinfected, and sealed to prevent reinfection. Root canals help preserve the natural tooth and avoid extraction.
Common reasons for root canal treatment include deep cavities, cracked teeth, trauma, and severe tooth pain or infection.
Average Root Canal Treatment Cost in Korea (2026)
The cost of root canal treatment in Korea depends mainly on which tooth is treated, since different teeth have different numbers of canals and levels of complexity.
Front Teeth (Incisors & Canines)
Front teeth usually have one canal and are the simplest to treat.
- Average cost: ₩150,000 to ₩350,000
- Approximate USD range: $110 to $270
These procedures are often completed in one or two visits.
Premolars
Premolars typically have one or two canals and require more time and precision.
- Average cost: ₩250,000 to ₩500,000
- Approximate USD range: $190 to $380
Treatment may take one or two visits depending on infection severity.
Molars
Molars are the most complex teeth for root canal treatment because they often have three or four canals.
- Average cost: ₩400,000 to ₩800,000
- Approximate USD range: $300 to $610
Molars usually require multiple visits and advanced equipment such as dental microscopes.
Specialist (Endodontist) Root Canal Costs
If treatment is performed by a root canal specialist (endodontist) or involves complicated anatomy or retreatment, the price may be higher.
- Complex or specialist cases: ₩700,000 to ₩1,200,000+
- These cases may include curved canals, severe infection, or previously failed root canals.
Additional Costs to Consider
Root canal treatment costs in Korea may not always include restorative work. Additional fees may apply for:
Dental Crown After Root Canal
Most teeth require a crown after root canal treatment to prevent fracture.
- Crown cost: ₩400,000 to ₩900,000
- Zirconia crowns typically cost more than porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns.
Temporary Fillings or Core Build-Up
Some clinics charge separately for temporary restorations or post-and-core buildup, depending on tooth condition.
Diagnostic Imaging
Basic X-rays are often included, but advanced 3D CT scans may cost extra in complex cases.
Is Root Canal Treatment Covered by Insurance in Korea?
For Korean residents, National Health Insurance partially covers root canal treatment, significantly reducing out-of-pocket costs.
For foreigners and short-term visitors, root canal treatment is usually self-paid, but prices remain far lower than in Western countries even without insurance coverage.
Why Root Canal Treatment Is Cheaper in Korea
Root canal treatment costs in Korea are lower due to:
- High patient volume and efficient clinic workflows
- Advanced dental equipment widely available
- Lower labor and operational costs compared to Western countries
- Competitive dental market with transparent pricing
Despite lower prices, clinical standards remain high.
How Long Does Root Canal Treatment Take in Korea?
- Front teeth: 1 visit (sometimes 2)
- Premolars: 1–2 visits
- Molars: 2–3 visits
Most treatments are completed within a few days to two weeks, making root canal therapy feasible even for short-term visitors.
Is Root Canal Treatment in Korea Safe for Foreigners?
Yes. Korean dental clinics follow strict sterilization standards and frequently use microscope-assisted root canal treatment, digital imaging, and modern materials. Many clinics also offer English-speaking support and experience treating international patients.
Root Canal Treatment in Korea vs Other Countries
In the US, root canal treatment can cost $1,000 to $2,500 per tooth, excluding crowns. In Korea, even complex molar root canals with crowns often cost significantly less, making Korea one of the most cost-effective destinations for endodontic care.
Final Thoughts
Root canal treatment in Korea in 2026 offers excellent value without sacrificing quality.
- Front teeth: ₩150,000–₩350,000
- Premolars: ₩250,000–₩500,000
- Molars: ₩400,000–₩800,000
- Specialist cases: Up to ₩1,200,000+
For patients seeking reliable, modern dental care at a reasonable price, Korea remains one of the best options worldwide for root canal treatment.
