What Dental Procedures Are Covered by NHIS in Korea?
Dental Procedures Covered by NHIS in Korea
Korea’s National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) covers a portion of essential dental treatments aimed at maintaining oral health and preventing serious complications. Coverage applies to both Korean citizens and registered foreigners enrolled in NHIS, but not all dental procedures are included, and most require a co-payment.
Below is a clear, practical breakdown for patients—especially foreigners—planning dental care in Korea.
1. Dental Examination & X-Rays
NHIS typically covers basic dental check-ups when they are medically necessary.
Covered services include:
- Initial dental consultation
- Oral examination
- Basic X-rays (periapical, panoramic when justified)
Patient co-pay: Usually 30–50% of the total cost
2. Scaling (Teeth Cleaning)
Scaling is one of the most widely used NHIS-covered dental procedures.
Coverage details:
- One scaling treatment per year
- Available for adults aged 19 and over
- Includes removal of plaque and tartar for gum health
Patient co-pay: Approximately 30%
Important: Cosmetic cleanings or polishing beyond scaling are not covered.
3. Dental Fillings (Limited Coverage)
NHIS coverage for fillings depends on material and patient age.
Covered:
- Amalgam fillings (mainly for molars)
- Glass ionomer fillings (often for children or temporary use)
Not covered:
- Composite resin (tooth-colored) fillings
- Ceramic or aesthetic materials
Most adults choose resin fillings for aesthetics, which are fully out-of-pocket.
4. Root Canal Treatment
Root canal therapy is partially covered when medically necessary due to infection or inflammation.
Covered services include:
- Root canal cleaning and shaping
- Medication inside the canal
- Temporary filling
Not covered:
- Crowns placed after root canal treatment
Patient co-pay: Roughly 30–50%, depending on complexity
5. Tooth Extraction
Medically necessary extractions are covered by NHIS.
Covered cases:
- Severely decayed teeth
- Impacted or infected teeth (non-wisdom)
- Gum disease–related extractions
Partially covered:
- Wisdom tooth extraction (coverage depends on complexity)
Patient co-pay: Around 30%
6. Dentures (For Seniors)
NHIS provides partial coverage for dentures for elderly patients.
Eligibility:
- Typically for patients aged 65 and above
- Coverage applies to removable dentures (partial or full)
Not covered:
- Implant-supported dentures
- Premium materials
7. Dental Implants (Limited Senior Coverage)
NHIS offers limited implant coverage for seniors.
Coverage details:
- For patients aged 65+
- Up to two implants per lifetime
- Only standard implant systems are covered
Patient co-pay: Around 30–50%
Dental Procedures NOT Covered by NHIS
The following treatments are considered cosmetic or elective and must be paid fully out-of-pocket:
- Teeth whitening
- Veneers
- Ceramic or zirconia crowns
- Cosmetic orthodontics
- Invisalign and clear aligners
- Aesthetic resin fillings
- Smile design treatments
How Payment Works at Dental Clinics in Korea
- You pay your co-pay immediately at the clinic after treatment
- Payment methods: credit card, debit card, or bank transfer
- NHIS-covered amounts are processed directly by the clinic—no claim filing needed
- Always confirm coverage before treatment begins
Practical Tips for Foreigners Using NHIS for Dental Care
- Ask clearly: “Is this covered by NHIS?”
- Request a cost breakdown before proceeding
- Be aware that many dentists will recommend non-covered options
- English-speaking clinics may offer more detailed explanations but can be slightly more expensive for non-covered items
Summary: Is NHIS Dental Coverage Worth It?
Yes—for basic and medically necessary dental care, NHIS significantly reduces costs in Korea. However, aesthetic and premium treatments are not included, so understanding coverage boundaries is essential before your appointment.
