With 91% of American adults aged 20–64 having cavities in permanent teeth, according to the Centers for Disease Control, it’s not surprising that one of the most requested dental procedures in the United States is dental filling.
A dental filling is one of the most effective ways to repair damage to your teeth caused by decay and prevent cavities from getting worse.
Whether you go for a dental filling with or without dental insurance, you are guaranteed a wide range of dental filling options.
The average cost of dental filling may vary due to several factors.
How Much Does It Cost To Replace A Filling?
Your preferred permanent tooth filling material is a huge factor in determining how much you’re going to spend for a dental filling procedure.
However, there a few other factors that you need to consider for the final tooth filling price, including:
The number of affected teeth
The more teeth need filling, the costlier the procedure is going to be.
The location of the decaying tooth
The teeth filling process can get more complicated if the tooth to be treated is in a hard-to-reach area. If the dentist has to spend more time and resort to using special equipment to get to the affected tooth, you can expect a higher bill.
The extent of tooth decay
Your dentist will need to remove the decayed portions of your tooth before placing a filling. Larger cavities mean more work for the dentist, and that could lead to higher costs.
The number of visits needed to fill the cavity
Normally, a dental filling takes an hour or less. However, if the dentist has to deal with an infection in the tooth to be filled or the gums, it may take more than one visit to complete the procedure, and that will undoubtedly raise the cost of your dental filling.
The function of the affected tooth
Even if you choose the cheapest filling material, you may have to pay for something stronger and more durable (and likely more expensive) if the affected tooth is supposed to chew tougher foods.
The location of the dental practice
The rates for dental procedures—filling teeth included—may vary between cities and states.
The dentist performing the procedure
The rates dentists charge to fill a tooth may also differ, even if they operate in the same area. Some offer various payment options and accept several insurance providers.
Types Of Dental Fillings
While the factors mentioned above influence the average cost of dental filling, the type of tooth filling material largely dictates the final price of the procedure.
Amalgam
Silver, zinc, tin, copper, and mercury make up Amalgam fillings, the cheapest dental filling material in the market today. The average rate for amalgam fillings is between $110 to $200 per filling, which could last a decade or so.
Composite Resin
The natural appearance of composite resin fillings makes it a popular choice among dental patients. Made from a mixture of plastic and fine glass particles, composite resin fillings are usually recommended for use on the front teeth and its other visible parts. While more expensive than amalgam fillings at an average of $135-$240 per filling, a composite resin filling is strong and bonds directly with the tooth. It can last for 5-7 years.
Cast Gold
The fact that cast gold fillings are made from one of the most valuable metals in the world makes it one of the most expensive types of filling out there. A single cast gold tooth filling can cost anywhere between $250-$4,500. Then again, gold fillings can withstand corrosion and the force of chewing better, making it durable enough to last for up to 15 years or more.
Porcelain
Yet another high-priced tooth-filling material, porcelain, or ceramic fillings, can cost you some $250 to $4,500. Many prefer this filling because it looks natural and can last for a long time. It resists staining and abrasion better than most materials used to fill in teeth. While expected to last 7 to 10 years, there is scientific proof that it can last for up to 27 years!
Always keep in mind that the average cost of dental filling as indicated may vary based on factors listed earlier in the article.
When choosing the material for filling tooth cavities, it’s always best to ask your dentist about them, from their pros and cons to the final cost of having them placed. That way, you will have all the information you need to help you decide which dental filling to go for by the time you make an appointment for the procedure. If you need more information, you can always seek help from the cosmetic dentist in temple terrace FL.
Frequently Asked Questions
✅What does a filling cost without insurance?
Without insurance, an amalgam filling could cost you up to $200 per filling. Composite resin fillings, on the other hand, will cost as much $240 each.
✅How much do fillings cost with insurance?
If you have dental insurance, an amalgam filling may cost an average of $89, while a composite filling may cost you an average of $207, although some insurance companies do not cover some of its costs.
✅Is it cheaper to pull or fill a tooth?
A routine tooth extraction will cost about $130–250, while a surgical extraction will cost you between $250–370. An amalgam filling will be cheaper than a simple tooth extraction, as it would only cost around $110-$200.
I am Kate, a dedicated health advocate. My purpose is to educate you regarding the most current wellness trends, offer science-backed insights to enhance your understanding, and present actionable tips to support you on your journey towards a healthier and happier life. Let us commence this wellness path together!