Urgent root canal treatment (also called emergency endodontic therapy) is performed when a tooth infection causes severe pain, swelling, or abscess symptoms requiring immediate attention. In Korea, emergency root canal fees can be higher than routine treatment due to the need for rapid care, after-hours service, or additional diagnostics.



Typical Urgent Root Canal Price Range

For emergency root canal therapy at Korean dental clinics, the fee generally falls within:

₩300,000 – ₩800,000 per tooth

The range depends on several factors:

• Tooth type and number of canals (front vs premolar vs molar)
• Time of service (regular hours vs after hours / weekend / holiday)
• Complexity of the infection and anatomy
• Additional procedures (imaging, draining abscess, medication)

Emergency root canal treatment is usually more expensive than standard scheduling because it often requires immediate attention and may involve longer treatment time.

Why Emergency Root Canal Fees Can Be Higher

Urgent or emergency root canal fees may increase due to:

• After-Hours or Weekend Treatment: Many clinics charge additional fees for care outside regular hours.
• Severe Infection: An abscess or significant inflammation may require additional work, drainage, or medication.
• Advanced Diagnostics: Rapid X-rays or 3D imaging (CBCT) may be needed to assess the problem accurately.
• Pain Management: Local anesthesia, and sometimes additional pain control measures, may add to the cost.
• Specialist Involvement: Endodontic specialists or clinics focused on emergency care may charge premium fees.

Price Examples by Tooth Type

Emergency root canal treatment can vary depending on the tooth involved:

• Front tooth (single canal): ₩300,000 – ₩500,000
• Premolar (two canals): ₩400,000 – ₩600,000
• Molar (three or more canals): ₩500,000 – ₩800,000+

Actual fees vary by clinic and patient case.

What’s Typically Included

Urgent root canal treatment fees generally cover:

• Clinical consultation and diagnostic evaluation
• Local anesthesia
• Pulp removal and cleaning of infected canals
• Shaping and disinfecting root canals
• Temporary filling between visits (if multi-visit)

Permanent restoration (filling or crown) is usually separate and not included in the emergency root canal fee.

Possible Additional Fees

Emergency care may incur extra charges for:

• 3D CBCT imaging for complex cases
• Abscess drainage or incision
• Antibiotic and pain medications
• Sedation or advanced pain management
• Follow-up visits

These are typically billed separately and can affect the total price.

Insurance Coverage in Korea

When emergency root canal therapy is medically necessary—such as for pain, infection, or abscess—it is generally partially covered by Korean National Health Insurance. Coverage depends on clinical documentation and insurance policy details.

However:

• After-hours surcharges are usually paid out of pocket.
• Advanced imaging (CBCT) and premium materials are typically not covered.
• Cosmetic or non-urgent upgrades are out of pocket.

It’s best to confirm coverage with your dental clinic and insurer in advance if possible.

Urgent Treatment vs Regular Scheduling

Emergency treatment is appropriate when symptoms are intense or worsening:

• Severe, throbbing pain
• Swelling or facial discomfort
• Fever or systemic symptoms
• Inability to sleep due to pain
• Persistent pain after previous dental work

If symptoms are mild, scheduling a standard appointment may be more cost-effective.

Conclusion

Urgent root canal treatment fees in Korea typically range from ₩300,000 to ₩800,000 per tooth, depending on canal complexity, after-hours service, and clinic standards. While basic medically necessary treatment may receive partial national health coverage, emergency surcharges and advanced diagnostics are generally out of pocket. For precise pricing, consult your dentist based on your clinical condition and treatment needs.