When a tooth undergoes root canal therapy, it often becomes weaker and more prone to fracture due to loss of vital structure. Placing a dental crown after root canal treatment protects the tooth, restores function, and improves aesthetics. In Korea, crown placement costs vary depending on materials used, clinic standards, and additional procedures.



Why a Crown Is Recommended After Root Canal

A crown:

• Protects the treated tooth from cracking or breaking
• Restores chewing function
• Improves aesthetics when visible teeth are involved
• Prevents leakage and reinfection

Because the root canal procedure removes internal tissue, the external structure benefits from the support and coverage a crown provides.

Typical Crown Costs in Korea

The cost of a dental crown in Korea depends on the material selected. Typical price ranges per tooth are:

• Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crown: ₩800,000 – ₩1,200,000
• All-Ceramic / Porcelain Crown: ₩900,000 – ₩1,500,000
• Zirconia Crown: ₩1,000,000 – ₩1,800,000
• High-Translucency / Premium Ceramic Crown: ₩1,200,000 – ₩2,000,000+

Actual prices vary by clinic, location (e.g., Seoul vs regional), and dentist experience.

What Affects Crown Pricing

Several factors influence the cost of crowns after root canal:

• Material Type: Different materials have different strength, aesthetics, and lab costs. Zirconia and premium ceramics are typically more expensive.
• Customization and Shade Matching: Higher-cost crowns may involve advanced shading and design to match natural dentition.
• Digital vs Traditional Workflow: CAD/CAM digital design and milling can increase precision but may add to cost.
• Retainer and Core Buildup: After root canal, a core build-up or post may be necessary to support the crown, adding cost.
• Clinic Standards: Clinics in city centers or premium districts often have higher fees.

Additional Procedures and Costs

When placing a crown after root canal treatment, other procedures may add to the total cost:

• Core Buildup: ₩50,000 – ₩200,000 (if substantial tooth structure is missing)
• Post Placement: ₩100,000 – ₩300,000 (if needed for retention)
• Temporary Crown: Often included or ₩50,000 – ₩150,000 if separate
• Impressions/Scans: Usually included but some clinics charge for digital scanning
• Follow-Up Adjustments: Minor fee or included

These additional charges vary by clinic policy.

Insurance Coverage in Korea

Korean National Health Insurance may partially cover crown placement when it is medically necessary—for example, after root canal therapy on back teeth. Coverage percentages depend on specific guidelines and clinical justification. Premium materials or cosmetic upgrades are usually not covered and must be paid out of pocket.

Patients should verify coverage details with both their dental clinic and insurance provider ahead of treatment.

Temporary vs Permanent Crowns

After root canal therapy, a temporary crown may be placed while the permanent crown is fabricated. Temporary crowns are usually less durable and intended only for short-term function.

Permanent crowns provide long-term strength and aesthetics and are the focus of the pricing ranges listed above.

Longevity and Maintenance

With proper care, well-made crowns can last many years—often 10 to 15 years or more depending on material and oral hygiene. Caring for crowned teeth includes:

• Regular oral hygiene (brushing and flossing)
• Avoiding excessively hard foods
• Routine dental check-ups
• Using night guards if bruxism (teeth grinding) is present

Choosing the Right Crown Material

• PFM Crowns: Good balance of cost and strength; may show slight metal margin over time.
• All-Ceramic Crowns: Excellent aesthetics, ideal for front teeth.
• Zirconia Crowns: Very strong and tooth-colored, suitable for back teeth.
• Premium Ceramic: Highest aesthetics and customization, ideal for visible smile zones.

Your dentist can recommend the best material based on location of tooth, bite forces, aesthetic goals, and budget.

Conclusion

Crowns after root canal in Korea generally range from ₩800,000 to ₩2,000,000+ per tooth, depending on material choice and clinic. Additional procedures like core buildup or posts can add to the total treatment cost. While basic crown placement may receive partial national insurance coverage in medically necessary cases, premium materials and cosmetic options are typically paid out of pocket. Consulting your dentist will provide a precise cost estimate tailored to your situation and treatment plan.