Root canal treatment (also called endodontic therapy) is a dental procedure that removes infected or damaged pulp inside the tooth, cleans the root canals, and seals the space to save the natural tooth and prevent further infection.

It’s often recommended when deep decay, trauma, or repeated dental work causes severe pain or abscesses.

Average Root Canal Treatment Cost in Korea (2026)

Root canal costs in Korea are generally much lower than in Western countries while still using modern technology, digital diagnostics, and experienced dentists.

Typical Price Ranges by Tooth Type

• Front (incisor/canine) root canal: approx. ₩200,000 – ₩350,000
  (~USD 150 – 260)
• Premolar root canal: approx. ₩250,000 – ₩400,000
  (~USD 190 – 300)
• Molar root canal: approx. ₩300,000 – ₩600,000
  (~USD 220 – 450) 영어 치과 의사 서울

Note: Prices vary by clinic, dentist experience, equipment used (microscope/endodontic files), and complexity of the canals.

What Is Included in the Cost?

Most root canal treatment pricing includes:

• Initial consultation and dental exam
• X-rays or 3D imaging (if needed)
• Local anesthesia
• Cleaning, shaping, disinfecting, and filling root canals
• Temporary restoration (until final tooth restoration)

Some clinics quote separately for imaging or anesthesia — always ask what’s included.

Lower cost figures (e.g., ₩50,000–₩120,000) may reflect insured, basic single-visit treatments at local clinics rather than private cosmetic dental centers.

Additional Costs: Crown and Final Restoration

After root canal treatment, many dentists recommend a crown to protect the treated tooth:

• Resin or basic crown: from about ₩350,000 – ₩600,000 (~USD 260 – 450) MAKE Dental
• Zirconia or premium crown: can be higher depending on material and clinic

Combined root canal + crown packages are common, and total pricing for one tooth often lands around ₩450,000 – ₩900,000 (~USD 330 – 650) in many private clinics, depending on tooth position and material choices.

Insurance & Cost Variations

In Korea, basic root canal treatment may be covered (partially) under the National Health Insurance system, reducing patient out-of-pocket costs significantly at dental clinics that accept insurance.

However, many cosmetic or private clinics list prices as non-insurance figures, and you may pay full rates. Always check with the clinic if they accept insurance and what percentage is covered vs non-covered.

Why Korea Is Affordable for Root Canal Treatment

Root canal treatment prices in Korea are lower than in the U.S. and many Western countries because:

• High patient volume and efficient clinic workflows
• Competitive dental market with many qualified dentists
• Lower general operating costs
• Insurance coverage for basic endodontic care (when using local clinics)

Procedure Timeline

Most root canal treatments are completed within 1 to 3 visits, depending on:

• Number of roots (e.g., molars have more)
• Infection severity
• Need for temporary restorations

Follow-up appointments are usually scheduled to monitor healing and place a crown.

Korea vs Other Countries: Cost Perspective

Compared with the U.S., where a single root canal can cost well over USD 1,000–2,000 per tooth, Korea’s pricing (often USD 150–450 per canal) offers significant savings without compromising quality.

Final Thoughts

The root canal treatment cost in Korea provides excellent value, particularly for international patients seeking high-quality endodontic care at transparent prices. With clear pricing options based on tooth type and additional restoration needs, Korea remains a top choice for dental health services in Asia.