Let’s face it: almost all of us will experience tooth decay at some point. The CDC estimates that a whopping 90% of adults have had a cavity. That’s why dental fillings are such a common procedure—they’re essential for restoring teeth damaged by cavities, cracks, or breaks.
But, how much do fillings cost? This article provides a comprehensive overview of dental filling costs, exploring the different factors that influence the price, the various filling materials available, and ways to manage the expenses. We’ll cover the types of fillings, what impacts the cost, whether insurance helps, and how to finance the procedure if needed.
What are dental fillings?
Dental fillings are materials that dentists use to fix teeth that are damaged by decay, trauma, or other conditions. The purpose of a filling is to restore the tooth’s original shape and function, and to keep the damage from getting worse.
Cavities form when bacteria in your mouth produce acids that eat away at your tooth enamel.
It’s important to treat cavities quickly. If you don’t, they can cause pain and infection, and they can even lead to tooth loss. Delaying treatment can also mean you’ll need more extensive and expensive procedures, such as root canals or extractions.
Types of dental filling materials
The type of filling you choose can affect the cost, appearance, and longevity of your dental work. Here’s a quick guide to the most common filling materials:
Amalgam fillings
Amalgam fillings are made from a mixture of silver, mercury, copper, tin, and zinc. They’re known for their durability, affordability, and long lifespan, typically lasting 10 to 15 years.
On the downside, amalgam fillings are quite noticeable, and they can expand or contract slightly with temperature changes.
Composite resin fillings
Composite fillings are made from a tooth-colored plastic and glass mixture that bonds directly to the tooth structure. They’re popular because they look good, but they’re not as durable as amalgam fillings, and they’re more prone to staining. Composite fillings typically last five to seven years.
Gold fillings
Gold fillings are made from a gold alloy. They’re exceptionally durable and resistant to corrosion, and they can last for 10 to 30 years. However, gold fillings are expensive, and they’re quite noticeable.
Porcelain (ceramic) fillings
Porcelain fillings are made from a ceramic material. They look great, resist stains, and are fairly durable, lasting about 10 years. But they’re expensive, and they can chip.
Glass ionomer
Glass ionomer fillings are made from a glass and acrylic mixture. They release fluoride, which helps prevent further decay. However, they’re the weakest type of filling material, so they’re typically used for small fillings or temporary fillings, lasting about five years.
How much do dental fillings cost?
The cost of a dental filling can vary widely, depending on the material used, the location of the tooth in your mouth, and the dentist’s fees. In general, you might expect to pay anywhere from $108 to $1,774 for a dental filling.
Here’s a breakdown by material:
- Silver amalgam: $108 to $350
- Composite resin: $150 to $450 (the national average is around $226)
- Gold: $250 to $817
- Porcelain ceramic: $500 to $2,800
- Glass ionomer: $116 to $285
Keep in mind that these figures usually don’t include the cost of the exam and X-rays, which can run anywhere from $20 to $200. You may also need to factor in the cost of anesthesia or sedation, if needed.
What affects the price of fillings?
Several factors can change how much you’ll pay for a dental filling:
- Type of filling: Gold and porcelain fillings cost more than other materials.
- Size and location of the cavity: Bigger cavities need more material and time to fill. Molars are also larger and harder to reach, meaning they usually cost more to fix.
- Dentist’s fees: Dentists in big cities or with years of experience tend to charge more for fillings.
- How difficult the procedure is: If the cavity is close to a nerve or hard to reach, you may pay more.
- Sedation: If you need nitrous oxide or another sedative to relax, that will add to the cost.
How much does dental insurance cover for fillings?
Most dental insurance plans will cover a portion of the cost of fillings. But the exact amount depends on the specifics of your plan.
A typical plan might cover up to 80% of the cost of a filling after you’ve paid your deductible.
Before you schedule your appointment, it’s a good idea to check your insurance benefits so you know what to expect to pay out-of-pocket.
Also, some plans only cover certain types of filling materials. For instance, they might only cover amalgam fillings for back teeth.
Financing options and saving money on dental fillings
Dental work can be expensive, but here are some ways to make it more affordable:
- Payment plans: Ask your dentist about breaking your payments into smaller installments.
- Dental discount plans: Some plans offer discounts if you go to a dentist in their network.
- CareCredit: You can use this credit card specifically for healthcare expenses.
- Community dental clinics: These clinics typically offer lower prices.
It’s also a good idea to get price quotes from several dentists.
Closing Thoughts
Don’t put off treating tooth decay. A filling can prevent more severe and expensive dental problems later.
The cost of a filling depends on the material used, the size and location of the cavity, and your dental insurance coverage.
If you think you need a filling, talk with your dentist to determine the best and most affordable treatment.