Korean Job Discussion Forums

[Treefarmer]

i need to go to the dentist, nothing serious, i just haven't been for a checkup in years and i know i need some work done, are korean dentists any good? or should i just save up to go in england? (they both seem to cost the same, and the NHS doesn't do dentists in practice)

the state of the kids i teach's teeth doesn't fill me with confidence, but i'm thinking that's just cos korean culture hasn't grasped the concept of dental health yet

how much would it cost me just for a check up? and are there any good dentists in Busan someone can recooment

[root555]

I heard that the dental clinic at Seoul National University is very reputable, and the dentists there speak very good English. It was recommended on another expat message board, and my friend went there and also confirmed that they are very good.

I understand your concern though. Honestly- I've heard some horror stories. One teacher friend of mine went to a place outside of Seoul, and had to get a root canal. He mentioned that they were slow in administering the pain medication!!!!

Anyway- I think it should be reasonable for you at SNU if you have health insurance (although I can't quote specific costs.) One thing though- if you do have a cavity- make sure to ask for the plaster filings (white ones that match the color of your teeth.) My sister, who is a dental assistant, was warning me that a lot of the filings used in other parts of the world still have some mercury in them. And a lot of the children I've seen have these (silver looking,) filings. The white ones do cost a little bit more- but are well worth it. Good luck.

[kat2]

If its the same price as your home country and you are going to be there soon, wait and do it at home. I've been to thedentist several times here. I go to one who used to live in TX for a decade, and I still wouldn't give you two cents for the quality. Dental costs are astronomical in teh states even with insurance, so I take the risk here, but if i could do it at home, I would.

[Apple]

I would have to reccomend going to thailand. The dentist there are extremely good and cheap as well. Best dental experience of my life. Personally I would never go to a dentist here in Korea just baased on my observations of Korean peoples teeth. They are gawd awful! Worst I have ever seen!! I have met people in Thailand that travel ther only for the sole purpose of going to the denist.. Do yourself a favor and go to Thailand for some proper care..