Wisdom Tooth Removal Cost in Korea

What to Expect for Wisdom Tooth Extraction Costs in Korea

If you’re planning to remove a wisdom tooth (third molar) in Korea, here’s a realistic idea of what it might cost:

• For a simple extraction of a wisdom tooth (fully erupted, easy access) the price typically ranges from about ₩50,000 to ₩100,000 (roughly USD $40-$80) per tooth.
• For a surgical extraction (impacted wisdom tooth, partially buried, complex cases) the cost can rise significantly—some listings indicate up to ₩200,000-₩300,000 or more (USD $150-$240+) per tooth.
• Some sources list broader ranges: “Simple removal: ₩100,000–₩500,000 (US$80-$400) per tooth; Surgical: ₩500,000–₩1,500,000 (US$400-$1,200)”.

What Affects the Price?

Several factors influence how much you’ll pay:

• Complexity of the tooth: Fully erupted vs impacted; depth and position matter.
• Location (upper vs lower jaw): Lower wisdom teeth tend to be more complex.
• Clinic type & location: Premium clinics in central Seoul (e.g., Gangnam) may charge more.
• Anesthesia/sedation: If you require general anesthesia or sedation, cost increases.
• Diagnostic imaging: X-rays, CT scans may be required and may add to cost.
• Insurance / coverage status: If you are covered under Korean National Health Insurance (NHIS) or paying privately as a foreign patient, cost differences may apply.
• Number of teeth removed: If multiple wisdom teeth are removed in one session, some clinics may offer package pricing.

What’s Typically Included

When you see a quote for wisdom tooth removal in Korea, it often includes:

• Pre-op consultation and diagnostic imaging (X-ray/CT)
• Local anesthesia (sometimes sedation)
• Surgical extraction procedure (if required)
• Post-op care/follow-up (medications, check-up)

Always confirm with the clinic what is and isn’t included in the fee.

How to Plan & What to Ask the Clinic

• Ask: “Is the quote for a simple extraction or a surgical/impacted extraction?”
• Ask: “Does the price include imaging (X-ray/CT), anesthesia, and follow-up?”
• Ask: “What type of anesthesia is being used? Will I need sedation/general anesthesia?”
• For foreign patients: verify whether the clinic offers English support and transparent pricing.
• Consider after-care: time off work, swelling/bruising, follow-up visits.
• If you have Korean health insurance (NHIS) or other coverage, check if the procedure is partially covered.

Example Cost Snapshot for Seoul

• Simple wisdom tooth removal: approx ₩50,000-₩100,000 (USD $40-$80) per tooth.
• More complex (impacted) removal: approx ₩200,000-₩300,000+ (USD $150-$240+) per tooth or more depending on difficulty.
  This makes Korea relatively affordable compared with many Western countries.

Final Thoughts

Removing a wisdom tooth in Korea can be much more cost-efficient than in many other countries, especially when complexity is low. But as complexity goes up (impaction, surgery, sedation) costs will go up too. Evaluating the tooth’s condition, understanding exactly what is included in the quote, and choosing a reputable clinic are key to getting the best value.

If you’re in Seoul and need a wisdom tooth removed, get a consultation, ask detailed questions, compare quotes, then proceed with confidence.