Dental care in Korea
Your once-a-year insured scaling: how it works
What scaling does
Tartar is hardened plaque that brushing cannot remove. It irritates the gums, causes bleeding and bad breath, and over time leads to gum disease, which is a common reason adults lose teeth.
How the yearly benefit works
- Age 19 and over, enrolled in National Health Insurance
- Once per calendar year, from 1 January to 31 December
- Bring your residence card
Many people forget until December, when appointments fill up. Booking in spring or autumn is easier.
The visit
We check your gums, remove tartar with an ultrasonic scaler and polish. If your gums are sensitive, tell us and we go slowly. Some bleeding for a day is normal when gums are inflamed.
When you need more than scaling
If tartar has gone deep under the gums, you may need gum treatment over a few visits. This is also covered by insurance.
Questions
Does scaling damage enamel?
No. Scaling removes tartar, not enamel. Teeth can feel sensitive briefly because the tartar that covered them is gone.
I'm 18. Can I get insured scaling?
The yearly insured scaling starts at age 19. Under 19, scaling may be covered when it is part of gum treatment.
General information, not a diagnosis. Your dentist will advise you after an examination.
