Understanding Dental Insurance in Korea for Foreigners

If you’re a foreign resident living in South Korea for more than six months, you are eligible — and often required — to enroll in the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS). Once enrolled, you’ll receive the same healthcare benefits as Korean citizens, including limited dental coverage.

But what exactly does that mean for your teeth and your wallet?

🏥 What Dental Treatments Are Covered by NHIS

Korea’s NHIS offers partial coverage for medically necessary dental procedures — not cosmetic treatments.
Here’s what’s typically covered:

• Basic treatments: tooth extractions, cavity fillings, root canal therapy, and gum (periodontal) treatments.
• Preventive care for children: sealants for molars (ages 6–14).
• Partial coverage for elderly: dentures and dental implants for patients aged 65 and older (some conditions apply).
• Oral exams: routine dental checkups at hospitals or dental clinics.

💡 Cosmetic procedures like veneers, whitening, orthodontics, or aesthetic crowns are not covered under NHIS.

💰 How Much You’ll Pay Out of Pocket

Even with NHIS, dental care isn’t free. Patients usually pay 30–50% of the total cost for insured procedures, depending on the treatment type and clinic.

• Cavity fillings: ₩20,000–₩60,000 per tooth (after insurance)
• Tooth extraction: ₩10,000–₩30,000
• Implants for seniors (65+): NHIS covers 50%; patients pay the rest
• Non-insured treatments: 100% out-of-pocket

Always ask your clinic whether your procedure is NHIS-covered (보험적용) or non-insured (비급여) before starting treatment.

🪥 Private Dental Insurance Options

Foreigners who want more comprehensive dental protection — especially for cosmetic or orthodontic care — can add private dental insurance.
Popular international insurers offering Korea-compatible plans include:

• William Russell
• Allianz Care
• Cigna Global
• AXA
  These plans can cover aesthetic crowns, whitening, or orthodontics not covered by NHIS.

📋 What Foreign Residents Should Know

Before booking a dental appointment in Korea:
✅ Enroll in NHIS if you’ve stayed more than 6 months.
✅ Bring your Alien Registration Card (ARC) and NHIS card to every dental visit.
✅ Confirm coverage and co-payment before treatment.
✅ Keep receipts for possible reimbursements or insurance claims.

✨ Bottom Line

Dental care in Korea is affordable and high-quality, especially when using NHIS for basic procedures.
For expats, combining NHIS coverage with private dental insurance gives the best protection — covering both medical and cosmetic needs.