Korean Dictionary
How to say "Dentist" in Korean
“Dentist” in Korean is 치과 (pronounced "chigwa").
치과
chigwa
Usage & Context
치과 refers to both the dental clinic and the dental specialty in Korea. Regular 치과 visits are encouraged twice a year but many Koreans only go when they have pain. Cosmetic dental treatments like whitening and orthodontics are extremely popular in Korea especially among young adults.
Example Sentence
6개월마다 치과에 가서 스케일링을 받아요.
I go to the dentist every 6 months for a dental cleaning.
How to use 치과 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Dentist” is 치과, romanized as chigwa.
Usage tip
When describing symptoms, combine the word with where it hurts, when it started, and how severe it is.
Common mistake
Do not rely only on the English meaning. Read the Korean example sentence and notice the particles, word order, and politeness level around 치과.
Pronunciation Guide
치 (chi) sounds like 'chee' in 'cheese'. 과 (gwa) is like 'gwa' in 'Gwen'. The stress is fairly even.
More Example Sentences
Experiencing dental pain and needing a visit to the dentist.
사랑니가 아파서 치과에 가야 해요.
My wisdom tooth hurts, so I need to go to the dentist.
Emphasizing the importance of preventive dental care.
정기적으로 치과 검진을 받는 것이 중요해요.
It's important to get regular dental check-ups.
Discussing popular cosmetic dental treatments.
요즘은 치과에서 미백 시술도 많이 하더라고요.
These days, they also do a lot of whitening procedures at the dentist.
Cultural Context
'치과' (dental clinic/dentist) is a common sight in Korean neighborhoods. While regular check-ups are recommended, many Koreans tend to visit only when experiencing pain, similar to some other cultures. However, cosmetic dental treatments like teeth whitening and orthodontics (치아 교정) are extremely popular, especially among young adults and those preparing for job interviews or special occasions, reflecting a strong emphasis on a bright, appealing smile.
Editorial note
We review entries like 치과 for pronunciation, example sentence fit, and learner mistakes so the page answers more than a direct dictionary lookup.
Reviewed by Min-jung Park, Korean Language Teacher. Updated May 31, 2026. See our editorial standards.
Common Phrases
치과에 가다.
To go to the dentist.
치과 진료.
Dental treatment/consultation.
치과 예약.
Dental appointment.
Related Expressions
치과의사
chigwa uisa
Dentist (person)
치아
chia
Tooth/teeth
스케일링
seukeilling
Scaling (dental cleaning)
교정
gyojeong
Orthodontics, braces
More Health & Medical Words
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