Resin vs Amalgam Fillings in Korea: Cost & Insurance Differences
Introduction
When you need a cavity filled, one of the biggest decisions at the dentist is what type of material to use. In Korea, the two most common options are resin (tooth-colored) fillings and amalgam (silver) fillings. They differ not only in appearance and durability, but also in insurance coverage and cost.
This guide explains the key differences so you can make an informed choice before your dental visit.
What Are Resin and Amalgam Fillings?
🦷 Resin Fillings (Composite)
- Tooth-colored, blends with natural teeth
- Popular for visible areas like front teeth
- More aesthetically pleasing
🪩 Amalgam Fillings
- Silver-colored metal alloy
- Durable and long-lasting, often used for molars
- Less visible but noticeable when you smile
NHIS Insurance Coverage in Korea
✔ Amalgam Fillings — Covered by NHIS
- NHIS generally covers amalgam fillings because they are considered a standard treatment for cavities, especially in posterior (back) teeth.
- Co-pay required: You pay a portion (usually around 30%) of the insured cost at the clinic.
- Great for basic cavity repair with insurance support.
✖ Resin Fillings — Not Covered by NHIS
- Resin (tooth-colored) fillings are usually not covered by NHIS, as they are classified as a non-insured cosmetic option.
- You must pay 100% out-of-pocket for resin fillings.
💡 Important: Occasionally children or specific cases may have partial coverage for resin under special policies, but this is not standard under NHIS. Always confirm at your clinic.
Typical Costs in Korea (2025 Estimates)
Note: These are general ranges; actual prices vary by clinic location and severity of cavity.
🪩 NHIS-Covered Amalgam Fillings
- Out-of-pocket co-pay (insured): approximately ₩10,000 – ₩50,000+ per filling
- Final cost depends on the dentist’s standard charge and required X-rays
- Lower overall cost due to insurance discount
🦷 Non-insured Resin Fillings
- Out-of-pocket (no insurance): approximately ₩50,000 – ₩120,000+ per filling
- May be higher at premium or foreigner-focused clinics
- Costs vary by tooth size and aesthetic requirements
Filling TypeInsurance CoverageYou Pay at ClinicAmalgam✔ Covered by NHIS30% co-pay (₩10k–₩50k+)Resin (Composite)✖ Not Covered100% (₩50k–₩120k+)
Pros & Cons
🪩 Amalgam Fillings
Pros
✔ Covered by NHIS
✔ Durable for chewing surfaces
✔ Lower cost
Cons
✖ Visible silver color
✖ Contains metal (not preferred cosmetically)
🦷 Resin Fillings
Pros
✔ Natural, tooth-colored look
✔ Good for visible or front teeth
✔ Bonds well to tooth structure
Cons
✖ Not covered by NHIS
✖ Higher cost
✖ Slightly less durable than amalgam in some cases
Choosing the Right Option
Ask yourself:
- Is this for a visible tooth? > Resin may be worth it
- Do you want to save money? > Amalgam with NHIS coverage
- Any metal sensitivities? > Avoid amalgam
📌 Always ask your dentist “Is this covered by NHIS?” and “What will my total cost be?” before treatment.
Tips for Foreign Patients
- Clarify 보험 (covered) vs 비급여 (non-insured) services
- Request a written estimate
- Consider clinic reputation and language support
- Understand that many clinics upsell resin fillings as premium options
