Are Wisdom Tooth Extractions Covered by Insurance?
Yes—partially, in many cases. In Korea, wisdom tooth (third molar) extraction can be covered by the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) when it is considered medically necessary. However, coverage depends heavily on the condition and complexity of the tooth.
This applies to both Korean citizens and registered foreigners enrolled in NHIS.
When Wisdom Tooth Extraction Is Covered
NHIS generally covers extraction when the wisdom tooth poses a medical or functional problem.
Common covered situations include:
- Impacted wisdom teeth (trapped under gum or bone)
- Teeth causing pain, swelling, or infection
- Recurrent inflammation (pericoronitis)
- Cavities or damage to adjacent teeth
- Abnormal eruption angle affecting bite or hygiene
In these cases, the extraction is classified as treatment, not cosmetic or preventive care.
Typical patient co-pay:
- About 30–50% of the insured cost
- Paid on the same day at the clinic
When Wisdom Tooth Extraction Is Not Fully Covered
Some wisdom tooth removals may be partially covered or not covered at all, depending on complexity and intent.
Limited or non-covered situations:
- Simple preventive removal with no symptoms
- Elective extraction of fully erupted, problem-free wisdom teeth
- Additional services requested for comfort or convenience
In these cases, the clinic may charge non-insured (비급여) fees for part or all of the procedure.
Simple vs Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Coverage Differences
Simple (Erupted) Wisdom Tooth
- Often treated like a standard tooth extraction
- May be covered, but coverage is more limited
- Lower overall cost
Impacted Wisdom Tooth
- Usually covered by NHIS
- May involve surgical extraction
- Requires X-rays or 3D CT imaging (basic imaging is often covered)
Typical Costs With NHIS (General Ranges)
Actual prices vary by clinic, tooth position, and surgical difficulty.
- NHIS-covered extraction:
- Out-of-pocket co-pay often ranges from ₩20,000 – ₩80,000+
- More complex surgical cases:
- Higher co-pay due to longer procedure time and materials
Additional non-covered costs may include:
- Advanced 3D CT scans
- Special surgical techniques
- Sedation options beyond standard local anesthesia
What’s Usually NOT Covered
- Preventive removal with no medical indication
- Deep sedation or sleep anesthesia (unless medically required)
- Premium pain-control options
- Cosmetic or scheduling-related add-ons
How Payment Works
- You pay immediately after the procedure
- Clinics accept credit cards, debit cards, and sometimes bank transfer
- The clinic bills NHIS directly—no paperwork needed
Always confirm before treatment whether the extraction is 보험 적용 (insured) or 비급여 (non-insured).
Tips for Foreigners & First-Time Patients
- Bring your ARC and NHIS enrollment status
- Ask for a cost explanation before extraction
- Confirm if imaging and anesthesia are included
- Don’t assume all wisdom tooth extractions are fully covered—case matters
Quick Summary
- ✔ Wisdom tooth extraction can be covered by NHIS
- ✔ Coverage depends on medical necessity and complexity
- ✔ Patients usually pay 30–50% co-pay
- ✖ Preventive or elective removals may not be covered
- ✔ Payment is made on the day of treatment
