Hidden Costs of Dental Veneers in Korea
Getting veneers in Seoul, Korea is often more affordable than many Western countries, but the initial quoted price per tooth is rarely all you’ll pay. To budget realistically, you should know the common hidden or additional costs that patients often overlook.
1. Consultation and Diagnostic Fees
A quoted price might exclude consultation or diagnostic exams like:
- Initial dental exam
- X-rays or panoramic imaging
- Digital scans and smile design software
Some clinics include these in the total, but others list them separately. Always ask what’s included in the quote.
2. Additional Dental Work Before Veneers
Your teeth may need preparatory treatment before veneers, such as:
- Gum contouring or reshaping
- Tooth whitening
- Fillings on adjacent or underlying teeth
- Root canal therapy if decay is found
These procedures are typically billed separately and can add significant cost. Gangnam Dentique Clinic
3. Temporary Veneers
Temporary veneers protect prepared teeth while the permanent ones are made. Not all clinics include this in the base price — some charge extra for temporaries and adjustments.
4. Lab & Material Upgrades
Not all materials are equal:
- Premium porcelain (e.g., layered ceramics) costs more than base ceramic
- High-end imported materials (porcelain or zirconia) may increase fees
- Custom shade matching and detailed layering raise lab costs
Clinics sometimes quote a base material price and then add upcharges for higher-end options. Gangnam Dentique Clinic
5. Night Guards and Protective Devices
If you grind your teeth (bruxism), dentists often recommend a night guard to protect your veneers. A night guard is usually not included in the veneer fee and can cost extra.
6. Follow-Up Visits & Adjustments
After veneer bonding, follow-up visits for:
- Bite checks
- Minor adjustments
- Polishing or re-contouring
may not be bundled into the initial price, especially if they occur weeks after placement.
7. Tax and Service Fees
In Korea, cosmetic dental procedures often include a 10% VAT on top of the listed price. Some clinics list prices without tax, so the final bill becomes higher than expected.
8. Travel and Accommodation (for Foreign Patients)
If you’re coming from abroad, you’ll need to factor in:
- Flights
- Hotel stays (multiple visits may be required)
- Transportation
- Meals
These non-dental costs can add a sizable amount to your overall veneer journey but are rarely included in medical quotes.
9. Payment Processing Fees
Some clinics may charge fees for:
- International bank transfers
- Credit/debit card processing
- Currency conversion
These are minor on a per-tooth basis but add up with multiple veneers.
10. Warranty or Replacement Costs
Not all clinics include a warranty in the base price. If a veneer chips or debonds after placement, some clinics charge for repair or replacement unless a warranty plan has been purchased separately.
Tips to Avoid Hidden Costs
- Get a written quote that itemizes what’s included
- Ask about taxes and extras before scheduling
- Clarify materials and lab fees (imported vs. standard)
- Confirm follow-up coverage and warranty terms
- Plan logistics (travel/accommodation) ahead of time
Final Thoughts
The headline price per veneer tooth in Korea looks attractive, but true cost planning includes many extras beyond the quoted number. By knowing what might be excluded or added later, you’ll avoid surprises and budget more accurately for your veneer treatment in Korea. 서울치과

