Wisdom Teeth Removal Cost in Korea | What to Expect in Seoul

John Miller • January 31, 2021

Understanding Wisdom Teeth Removal in Korea

Wisdom tooth extraction is one of the most common dental procedures in Korea. Known for its high-quality care and affordable pricing, Seoul attracts both locals and international patients seeking safe and efficient oral surgery performed by skilled dentists.

Whether your tooth is simply erupted or deeply impacted, Korean dental clinics offer customized care with advanced digital imaging, precise anesthesia, and thorough post-treatment follow-up.

Average Cost of Wisdom Teeth Removal in Korea

The cost of wisdom teeth removal in Korea depends on how complicated the extraction is and whether it requires surgery.

Type of ExtractionAverage Cost (KRW)Approx. in USDDescriptionSimple extraction (non-impacted)₩50,000–₩100,000$40–$80Quick procedure under local anesthesiaSurgical extraction (impacted)₩200,000–₩300,000$150–$240For deeply rooted or angled teethSedation or general anesthesia (optional)+₩100,000–₩200,000$80–$160Additional fee for comfort and anxiety reduction

Prices vary slightly depending on location — clinics in Gangnam, Apgujeong, or Itaewon tend to charge more than suburban dental offices due to higher operating costs and foreign-patient services.

What Affects the Cost

Several factors influence the total price of wisdom tooth removal in Korea:

  • Tooth condition: Impacted or partially erupted teeth require surgical removal.
  • Location: Upper teeth are usually easier (and cheaper) to remove than lower ones.
  • Anesthesia type: Local anesthesia is standard; sedation adds to the total cost.
  • Imaging: CT or panoramic X-rays may be charged separately.
  • Clinic type: University hospitals or oral surgery specialists may have higher base fees.

NHIS Coverage for Wisdom Tooth Extraction

For Korean citizens and registered foreign residents with National Health Insurance (NHIS), a portion of the cost is covered if the extraction is medically necessary.
Typically, patients pay 30–50% of the total cost out-of-pocket under insurance.
Cosmetic or elective procedures, or the use of premium sedation, are not covered.

Why Choose Korea for Wisdom Tooth Removal

  • Affordable: Even surgical extractions cost less than in most Western countries.
  • Precision: Dentists use 3D imaging and digital planning for safe removal.
  • Comfort: Clinics offer mild sedation options and detailed aftercare.
  • Accessibility: Easy appointment booking for locals and foreign patients alike.
  • English Support: Many Seoul clinics, especially in Gangnam, have English-speaking staff.

Post-Treatment Care Tips

  • Apply a cold compress during the first 24 hours to minimize swelling.
  • Avoid hot or spicy food and smoking for a few days.
  • Take prescribed antibiotics and pain relievers as directed.
  • Rinse gently with salt water after meals to keep the area clean.
  • Return for follow-up if you notice swelling, bleeding, or delayed healing.

How to Book a Dental Appointment in Seoul

Most clinics in Seoul accept walk-ins and online bookings through their websites or messaging apps (KakaoTalk or WhatsApp). If you’re an international patient, look for clinics in Gangnam or Itaewon that specialize in foreigner care and can provide English consultations and transparent pricing.

Final Thoughts

Wisdom teeth removal in Korea is both affordable and efficient, thanks to the country’s advanced dental technology and high medical standards.
Whether you need a simple extraction or a more complex surgical procedure, clinics in Seoul provide safe, comfortable, and transparent care — often at half the price of similar treatments overseas.

 


 

Dental Implants and Quality of Life Improvement

January 7, 2026
Dental Implants and Quality of Life Improvement Dental implants do more than restore missing teeth—they can significantly improve a patient’s overall quality of life. From functional benefits to psychological and social impacts, implants provide lasting positive effects. Functional Improvements Chewing Efficiency : Implants restore normal bite force, allowing patients to eat a wider variety of foods comfortably. Speech Clarity : Missing teeth can affect pronunciation; implants help restore natural speech patterns. Oral Health : Implants prevent bone loss and maintain adjacent teeth alignment, supporting long-term oral health. Aesthetic Benefits Natural Smile : Implants look and feel like natural teeth, enhancing overall appearance. Facial Structure Support : Implants preserve jawbone and soft tissue, preventing a sunken or aged appearance. Confidence Boost : A complete, natural smile improves self-esteem and social interactions. Psychological and Social Benefits Improved Self-Esteem : Patients often report increased confidence in personal and professional settings. Reduced Anxiety : Knowing implants are stable and long-lasting reduces stress related to missing teeth or removable dentures. Enhanced Social Life : Patients feel more comfortable smiling, speaking, and engaging in social activities. Special Considerations Long-Term Care : Implants require proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups for maximum benefit. Customized Treatment : Treatment plans should be tailored to patient needs, including bone grafting or digital planning if required. Adaptation Period : Patients may need time to adjust to implants, especially if replacing multiple teeth or full arches. Final Thoughts Dental implants can dramatically enhance quality of life by restoring function, aesthetics, and confidence. Unlike removable dentures or bridges, implants provide long-term stability and natural appearance, improving both physical comfort and psychological well-being. With proper planning, advanced techniques like digital imaging, and attentive post-operative care, implants can transform a patient’s daily life—allowing them to eat comfortably, speak clearly, smile confidently, and engage fully in social and professional activities. Overall, dental implants are more than just a dental treatment—they are an investment in lifelong oral health and quality of life.

Dental Implant for Missing Teeth After Trauma

January 7, 2026
Dental Implant for Missing Teeth After Trauma Trauma, such as accidents or injuries, can result in the loss of one or more teeth. Dental implants are an effective solution for restoring function, aesthetics, and oral health in patients who have lost teeth due to trauma. Challenges of Tooth Loss After Trauma Bone Damage : Traumatic injuries can damage the jawbone, complicating implant placement. Soft Tissue Injury : Gums and surrounding tissues may be injured or scarred, affecting aesthetics. Adjacent Teeth : Trauma may also affect nearby teeth, requiring careful assessment. Emotional Impact : Tooth loss from trauma can affect self-esteem and confidence. How Implants Help Restoring Function : Implants replace missing teeth, allowing normal chewing and speech. Preserving Bone : Implants stimulate bone, preventing resorption and maintaining jaw structure. Aesthetic Recovery : Properly placed implants support soft tissues and restore a natural smile. Long-Term Stability : Implants provide a durable solution that can last decades with proper care. What Affects the Price? Several factors influence the cost of implants after trauma: Severity of trauma : More extensive injuries may require bone grafts, soft tissue repair, or multiple implants. Number of teeth missing : Single tooth vs multiple teeth replacement. Type of implant and restoration : Titanium vs zirconia, standard crown vs customized prosthetics. Location and clinic type : Premium clinics or central Seoul locations may charge more. Diagnostic imaging : X-rays or CBCT scans may be needed to assess trauma damage. Anesthesia/sedation : Sedation or general anesthesia increases cost. Insurance coverage : Korean NHIS may cover part of the procedure depending on the case; foreign patients pay privately. How to Plan & What to Ask the Clinic Ask: “Does the quote include bone grafting if needed?” Ask: “What type of implant and restoration are included?” Ask: “Will sedation or general anesthesia be used?” For foreign patients: confirm English support and transparent pricing. Consider recovery: swelling, follow-up visits, and time off work. Verify insurance coverage (NHIS or private) if applicable. Final Thoughts Dental implants after trauma offer a reliable way to restore both function and aesthetics. Costs vary depending on injury severity, bone condition, and number of teeth replaced. Planning with a skilled implant dentist, understanding what’s included in the quote, and confirming post-op care are key to achieving the best outcome. If you’ve experienced tooth loss due to trauma, consult a reputable clinic in Seoul, discuss your treatment options, and proceed with confidence knowing you can restore your smile safely and effectively.