Dentistry in South Korea

Dentistry, also known as oral medicine and dental medicine, is a branch of medicine that comprises the study, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of disorders, diseases, and conditions of the teeth, supporting structures, and the soft tissue of the mouth. Although the field of dentistry is mainly associated with teeth among the general public, it is actually not limited to teeth but also encompasses the treatment and conditions of the jaws and oral cavity, such as cleft palate.

In addition to general practice, dentistry has a number of specialties and subspecialties, including:

• Orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics – this involves the straightening of teeth and the modification of midface and mandibular growth. While orthodontics involves the management of tooth movement, dentofacial orthopedics entails the guidance of facial growth and development, which mostly occur during childhood.
• Pediatric dentistry – also known as pedodontics, pediatric dentistry is a dental specialty dealing with the care of children’s teeth.
• Periodontics – this dental specialty is concerned with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases of the periodontal membrane, as well as related tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth.
• Prosthodontics – this dental specialty involves the restoration and maintenance of oral appearance, function, and comfort using prostheses, such as crowns. This specialty also provides oral prostheses to correct deformities, such as cleft palate.
• Endodontics – this involves the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases of the dental pulp, as well as the surrounding tissues.
• Public health dentistry – this dental specialty’s primary concern is the prevention of dental decay and periodontal disease (disease of tissues that surrounds the teeth). On a larger scale, it involves the improvement of oral health in large populations.
• Oral and maxillofacial surgery – this involves the extractions, implants, and surgery of the mouth, jaws, and face.
• Oral and maxillofacial radiology – this involves the study and radiologic interpretation of oral and maxillofacial diseases.
• Oral and maxillofacial pathology – this involves the study, diagnosis, and, in some cases, treatments of oral and maxillofacial related diseases.
• Special needs dentistry – this specialty deals with dental treatments for those with developmental and acquired disabilities.
• Geriatric dentistry – also known as geriodontics, this specialty delivers dental care to older adults and involves the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of problems associated with age-related diseases.

Dental treatments are performed by a dental team, which usually consists of dentists and dental auxiliaries (dental hygienists, dental assistants, dental technicians, and dental therapists).

What does the Procedure Involve?

A range of medical and cosmetic procedures are used to diagnose and manage issues that affect the jaws, teeth, and oral cavity. The following are some of the most common dental procedures:

• Comprehensive examination – this type of procedure evaluates your overall oral health. A comprehensive dental exam typically includes dental evaluation, dental health assessment, bite and jaw examination, cavity check, restoration examination, teeth cleaning and stains removal, dental X-Rays, oral cancer screening, medications review, and a lesson on oral hygiene. A general dentist will discuss with you your current oral health, including your risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and any other oral health problems they may have seen through the examination. If any potential issues are found, your dentist will give you their prevention recommendations.
• Routine cleanings – this type of procedure is carried out to remove the buildup of tartar and bacteria that accumulate in between your teeth and gums. Routine mouth cleaning is important to maintain good oral health.
• Dental bonding – this procedure is used to repair decayed, chipped, discolored, or fractured teeth, as well as to reduce gaps between teeth. It can also be used to build up older teeth in order to make them appear younger. The goal of the procedure is to improve a person’s smile. During this procedure, your dentist will apply a tooth-colored resin to your teeth. Then, the resin is hardener under an ultraviolet laser or light. Afterward, the resin material is shaped and polished to ensure the result looks natural and smooth.
• Braces – a dental brace is a device used to correct crooked or misaligned teeth. It can improve the health and appearance of your smile. It works by exerting steady pressure over time to gradually move your teeth into alignment.
• Crowns and caps – a dental crown or cap is a tooth-shaped cover that is placed over a decayed, broken, badly stained, or misshaped tooth to improve its size, shape, strength, and appearance. Dental crowns can be made of porcelain fused to metal, metal, ceramic, or resin. Before a crown is placed, the existing tooth is filed down. Then, the crown is applied over it using special cement, thus fully encasing the tooth. The whole process is usually performed under local anesthetic.
• Bridges – Dental bridges are used to close (or bridge) the gaps in your teeth if you have missing teeth. A dental bridge is a false tooth held in place by abutment teeth on either side of the gap. It can be made from a wide variety of materials, even gold. However, dental bridges are typically made from porcelain to make it blend in with your natural teeth.
• Implants – Dental implants are replacement tooth roots made of titanium that provide a strong foundation for the attachment of removable or permanent crowns. It is done to replace damaged or missing teeth. Dental implants can look and function much like real teeth. The process of placing a dental implant can be done under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia.
• Extractions – a severely damaged tooth due to excessive tooth decay or tooth infection that cannot be saved needs to be pulled out. Tooth extractions may also be done to resolve crowding, as well as for those who get braces. Tooth extraction procedure can be simple or surgical, depending on the state of your tooth. Simple tooth extraction is usually performed under local anesthetic, while surgical tooth extraction may involve general anesthesia.
• Dentures – dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth. They can be complete or partial. Partial dentures are used when some of your natural teeth still remain, while complete dentures are used when all of your teeth are missing.
• Gum surgery – mostly known as periodontal surgery, this type of procedure is often required to treat certain gum conditions and diseases, such as periodontitis or gingivitis. Its goal is to treat the gum disease and any damage it may have caused.
• Filling and repairs – to treat a cavity, the decayed portion of the tooth can be removed and then “filled.” Fillings can also be done to repair broken or cracked teeth.
• Veneers – Dental veneers are custom-made shells designed to cover the front surface of your teeth. They can change the color, size, shape, and length of your teeth to improve your appearance. It can be made from resin composite or porcelain. However, the most popular material is porcelain as they look more natural than composite veneers.
• Root canals – this procedure is done to repair and save a tooth that becomes infected or badly decayed. The root canal procedure involves removing the pulp and nerve from a tooth. The inside of your tooth is then cleaned and sealed. This procedure can prevent the tissue that surrounds the tooth from being infected.

How Long Should I Stay in South Korea?

Your length of stay depends on the type of procedure you get. For most dental procedures, you can leave the clinic or hospital on the same day. However, if you undergo a surgical procedure, then you may need to stay in the hospital for a few days. Note that most dental procedures require multiple appointments to complete. Therefore, although you can leave the hospital on the same day, you may need to stay in South Korea for several days or weeks until all of your appointment is completed. In some cases, you may need two separate travel to South Korea.

What's the Recovery Time?

Recovery time can be different from one person to another, depending on the procedure you undergo, the reason you need the procedure, and your general health. Your dentist will give you a recovery timeline, which includes the time frame when you can go back to work, resume your normal routine, and perform vigorous activities, such as exercise.

What About Aftercare?

Your dentist will give you aftercare instructions that you will need to follow. The instructions may include diet, restrictions, and how to care for the treated area. You may feel some discomfort and pain for the first few days and your dentist may prescribe pain medications. Make sure to take the medications as instructed.

To maintain the result of your procedure, it is important that you practice good oral hygiene. Always brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss daily, and rinse your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash every day. It is also important that you have dental examinations regularly. In addition, you need to avoid damaging habits, such as biting your nails or chewing hard items.

What's the Success Rate?

The field of dentistry is constantly improving and advancing. Experienced and skilled dentists should be able to provide high success rates for the procedures they perform. Still, risks and side effects are possible. These include nerve injury, infection, bleeding, and damage to surrounding structures. To avoid these risks and side effects, make sure to choose a certified dentist with proven track records.

Are there Alternatives to Dentistry?

Any problems in your jaw, teeth, and oral cavity are diagnosed, treated, and prevented by the practice of dentistry. Therefore, there are no other alternatives than to see your dentist. However, if your problem is found to be caused by other diseases, your dentist may refer you to the relevant doctors.

Dentistry in and around South Korea

About South Korea

South Korea’s population is 51 million and it's capital Seoul is a major world city. 50 percent of the country’s population lives within the Seoul Capital Area which includes Seoul, Incheon, and Gyeonggi-do. The capital is situated in the north-west region of the country.

The Republic of Korea has immense potential for medical tourism with futuristic hospitals, sophisticated technologies, and advanced procedures. The government is taking all measures to make the country a top medical tourism destination. By 2022, it is looking to receive 998,000 medical tourists in the country.

Tourists from the USA, UAE, and Japan travel to Korea for affordable treatments. Some medical institutions in South Korea offer price packages, especially for plastic surgery, and help the medical tourist to save up to 40 percent on the treatment, even after adding travel and accommodation costs.

The Country has 27 accredited JCI-certified state-of-art hospitals. Severance Hospital, Seoul National University Hospital, and JK Plastic Surgery Centre are the most renowned hospitals within South Korea for medical tourism. The Doctors are well-educated to international standards of certifications and training.

The country is popular for treatments and procedures in several medical specialties, with an excellent track record for success and survival rates. Cancer treatment, plastic surgery, cardiovascular procedures, orthopedics, and preventive health check-ups are the top five areas for medical tourism in Korea.

Popular Parts of South Korea

When considering South Korea, it would be a mistake to overlook its many offerings that stretch way beyond the confines of its dynamic capital, Seoul. This vibrant nation is the embodiment of a perfect blend of advanced urban slickness, serene yet majestic rustic charm, awe-inspiring scenic beauty, and serene coastal landscapes with pristine beaches. Everywhere you go, each region unravels a story and invites you to become part of its unique narrative.

Notably, South Korea teems with places that make for intriguing and memorable visits. These locales, scattered across the country, are an intriguing cocktail of experiences, extending from modern high-tech cities shrouded in electrifying energy to tranquil, time-honoured folk villages nestled amongst nature's wonder, where tranquillity prevails and tradition holds sway.

1. Seoul – The capital city is a mix of pop and party culture, modern architecture, scenic parks, and glittering promenades and it is also rich in history and culture. The National Museum, War Memorial, Changdeokgung Palace, and Bukchon Hanok Village are some of the key attractions in Seoul.
2. The Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) – DMZ is one of the most important places in South Korea as you will get a better knowledge of the troubles between North and South. When you book a DMZ 3rd tunnel tour, make sure it includes the tram ride up and down the tunnel, or you will be in for a long walk. You can also get a glimpse of North Korea from the Observation Post in DMZ.
3. Busan - Is the second largest city of South Korea and is well known for hosting Asia’s biggest international film festival. It is also a unique blend of modern skyscrapers, majestic mountains, picturesque beaches, and magnificent Buddhist temples. Haedong Yonggungsa Temple and the Jagalchi fish market are some of the popular sites.
4. Jeju Island –Has beautiful white sandy beaches, volcanic craters, and lava caves, and the botanical gardens will take your breath away. Hyeopjae & Hamdeok beach, Cheonjiyeon Waterfalls, and Seongsan Sunrise Peak are some of the interesting places on this island.
5. Gyeongju –This coastal city has a large collection of cultural and historical sites dating back a thousand years. It gives you a peek into its cultural roots through the UNESCO World Heritage site, Bulguksa Temple, and the National Museum.

Seoraksan National Park, Incheon, and Pyeongchang County are a few other places to visit in South Korea.

Weather and Climate in South Korea

South Korea's climate is particularly noteworthy as it is blessed with distinct four seasons, each acquiring a unique charm. The rhythm of nature's cycles is quite pronounced and experienced vividly throughout the country. Spring flamboyantly arrives with blooming flowers and warmth, followed by summer's bright and sunny constitution. Autumn then takes over, painting the landscapes with artistic hues of red and gold, and finally, winter wraps up the cycle by painting the country white with its quiet snowfall.

• Summers are from June to August and are hot, humid, and rainy. There can be heavy rainfall in July and August.
• Winters are from late November to mid-March. During winter, it is freezing cold in the north and the interiors and mild along the southern coasts and snowfalls are rare.
• Spring is from mid-March to May. It is cold at the beginning of the season and gradually becomes milder. Rainfall becomes more frequent with the formation of low-pressure systems.
• Autumn is from September to late November and this is a pleasant season and during October the highest temperature is around 68 to 72°F. Rainfall is considerably less than in spring.

The average temperature in Seoul in January is around 73.4 to 81.5°F and in July its 71° to 75°F.

Getting Around in South Korea

Incheon International Airport at Seoul handles many daily flights from North America. Many of which are non-stop from San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Atlanta. Korean Air, United, and Delta Airlines operate a lot of these flights. Seoul is also reachable from its other Asian neighbors, Europe, and the middle-east. Other international airports in South Korea are located in Busan, Cheongju, and Jeju.

Gimpy International Airport, also in Seoul, handles domestic flight operations. You can connect to the Seoul Subway System, and to Incheon Airport by the Arex Train System.

Train travel is the most convenient and economical way to get around in South Korea. You can buy a KORAIL rail pass when you arrive at the airport. South Korea’s high-speed bullet train, the KTX, connects Seoul to Busan within 3 hours and It also connects to the other major cities within South Korea.

The Seoul Bus Terminal and the Central City Terminal operate buses to all of the cities. Bus travel is inexpensive and efficient, and fairly empty traveling to the smaller cities. Renting a car is also an option, but expensive.

Tourist Visas in South Korea

South Korea has an agreement with 117 jurisdictions for a visa-waiver. Visitors from countries under the visa-waiver program, such as the USA, Japan, EU countries, and New Zealand can enter the country without a tourist visa. Tourists can stay for up to 90 days with a valid passport. Canadians can enter visa-free and stay up to 180 days.

For citizens hailing from most Asian countries, including India and China, and also from Russia, planning a trip to South Korea involves obtaining a tourist visa. The South Korean government enforces travel protocols that require individuals from these nations to secure proper documentation prior to their visit, ensuring that travel regulations are adhered to and creating a simple and systematic process.

This prerequisite visa policy is a standard procedure which intends to streamline the influx of tourists and visitors from these specific nations. Each application undergoes a careful assessment to guarantee that all rules and regulations proposed by the South Korean authorities are in place. It constitutes a critical aspect of aiding security measures, maintaining immigration transparency, and promoting cultural exchange in a regulated manner. Thus, it is an imperative that citizens of these countries, such as India, China, and Russia, procure a tourist visa before embarking on their journey to discover the marvels of South Korea.

Additional Information

1. Korean Republican Won (KRW) is the currency of Korea. One US dollar converts to 1,342.95 KRW.
2. You can exchange most of the major currencies to KRW in banks and currency exchanges. US dollars and Euros are the easiest to convert.
3. You can withdraw money from the many ATMs. Or you may even use credit cards for payments in South Korea.
4. Korean and Korean Sign Language are the official languages of South Korea. Hangul is the formal script.
5. 56.9% of the people are non-religious. Among the religious population, the majority are Christians. Others follow Korean Buddhism.
6. The culture of South Korea is a blend of ancient Korean culture with ancient Chinese and Japanese cultures. Respect for elders is an important aspect of their culture.
7. New Year Day (falls in February as per lunar calendar), The Birthday of Buddha (early May), Independence Day (March 1), Memorial Day (June 6), Constitution Day (July 17) are a few important holidays in the Republic of Korea.