When the pulp (nerve and blood supply) inside a tooth becomes infected due to deep decay, trauma, or repeated dental work, treatment is necessary to eliminate the infection, relieve pain, and preserve the tooth. In Korea, costs for infected pulp treatment vary based on the severity of infection, tooth type, and procedures required.



What Is Infected Tooth Pulp Treatment?

Infected pulp treatment typically refers to root canal therapy (endodontic treatment). The procedure involves:

• Diagnosing infection using clinical exam and X-rays
• Administering local anesthesia
• Removing infected pulp tissue
• Cleaning, shaping, and disinfecting the root canals
• Sealing the canals with biocompatible filling material
• Placing a permanent restoration (filling or crown) afterward

The complexity of the tooth and the number of canals influence both the procedure and cost.

Average Treatment Costs in Korea

In Korean dental clinics, the cost for treating infected tooth pulp via root canal therapy is commonly based on the number of canals and tooth type:

• Single-canal tooth (front tooth): ₩200,000 – ₩400,000
• Two-canal tooth (premolar): ₩300,000 – ₩500,000
• Three-canal tooth (molar): ₩400,000 – ₩600,000

These are typical ranges and may vary by clinic, region, and case complexity.

Factors That Affect Treatment Cost

Several elements influence the final cost:

• Tooth Anatomy: More complex roots (curved or calcified) require more time and expertise.
• Number of Canals: Each additional canal increases materials used and treatment time.
• Diagnostic Tools: Standard X-rays are usually included; advanced imaging (CBCT) may be extra.
• Dentist Skill & Specialty: Endodontic specialists may charge higher fees than general dentists.
• Clinic Location: Clinics in premium districts or central Seoul may have higher baseline fees.
• Additional Treatments: If retreatment, broken instrument removal, or surgical endodontics is needed, prices increase.

Additional Costs to Expect

The infection treatment cost may only include the endodontic procedure itself. Other fees that might be billed separately include:

• Initial consultation and X-rays
• CBCT imaging
• Temporary or permanent restoration after root canal
• Dental crown (often recommended for strength and protection)
• Follow-up visits

These additional treatments are typically not included in the initial therapy fee.

Insurance Coverage in Korea

When pulp infection treatment is medically necessary (pain, abscess, infection), root canal therapy is often partially covered by Korean National Health Insurance. Coverage depends on clinical diagnosis and insurance rules.

However:

• Advanced imaging and specialist fees are usually out of pocket.
• Premium materials or technology (microscopes, lasers) are typically not covered.

It’s important to check both clinic fees and insurance details before treatment.

Why Treating Infected Pulp Is Important

Untreated pulp infection can lead to:

• Severe pain
• Abscess formation
• Bone loss around the tooth root
• Spread of infection
• Tooth loss

Root canal therapy removes infection while preserving the natural tooth—often preventing more costly options like extraction and implant placement.

Post-Treatment Care

After infected pulp treatment:

• A permanent restoration (often a crown) is recommended to protect the tooth.
• Maintain good oral hygiene to reduce risk of future decay.
• Attend regular dental check-ups.

With proper restoration and care, root canal–treated teeth can last many years.

Conclusion

In Korea, treatment for infected tooth pulp—primarily root canal therapy—typically costs ₩200,000 to ₩600,000 depending on the number of canals and tooth complexity. Additional services such as imaging, restoration, and crowns are usually separate fees. While basic treatment is often partially covered by national insurance when medically necessary, advanced diagnostics or specialist services are generally out of pocket. Consult with your dentist for a detailed treatment plan and exact pricing.