Dental care can be expensive, and one of the most common procedures—filling a cavity—often leaves patients wondering about the cost and how to save. Whether you have dental insurance or not, understanding your options can help you get quality care at a price you can afford.
In this guide, we’ll break down the average cost to fill a cavity and show you how to save money with or without insurance, including the benefits of in-office membership plans and how platforms like The Patient Marketplace can connect you with affordable dental care.
How Much Does It Cost to Fill a Cavity?
The average cost to fill a cavity varies based on factors such as location, the type of filling, and whether or not you have insurance. Below is a general cost breakdown:
- Silver Amalgam Fillings: $50 – $150 per tooth
- Composite (Tooth-Colored) Fillings: $90 – $250 per tooth
- Gold or Porcelain Fillings: $250 – $4,500 per tooth
Cost with Dental Insurance
If you have dental insurance, your out-of-pocket cost can be significantly lower. Most plans cover 50-80% of the cost, meaning you may only pay $20 to $100 per filling after insurance.
Cost Without Dental Insurance
Without insurance, the cost of filling a cavity can quickly add up, especially if you have multiple cavities. Some dental offices charge $200 or more per filling for patients paying out-of-pocket.
Why Dental Care Is So Expensive & How to Save
Many people avoid going to the dentist because of high costs, but delaying treatment can lead to bigger health problems—and even more expensive procedures in the future. Fortunately, there are several ways to save, even if you don’t have insurance.
1. Use an In-Office Membership Plan
One of the best-kept secrets in dental savings is in-office membership plans. These plans allow you to pay a low monthly or annual fee to access discounted services, including cleanings, exams, and fillings.
✅ Benefits of Membership Plans:
- No insurance needed
- No waiting periods or deductibles
- Lower costs on fillings and other procedures
- Transparent pricing with no surprise fees
Platforms like The Patient Marketplace make it easy to find dentists offering these plans, helping you save money without the hassle of traditional insurance.
2. Compare Prices & Ask for Discounts
Not all dental offices charge the same prices. Calling around and comparing rates can save you hundreds of dollars. Some dentists also offer cash discounts for patients paying upfront.
3. Look for Dental Schools & Community Clinics
Dental schools offer low-cost or even free dental care since students need hands-on experience under professional supervision. Many community health centers also provide affordable dental services.
4. Use a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
If your employer offers an HSA or FSA, you can use pre-tax dollars to pay for dental treatments, reducing your overall expenses.
Real-Life Savings: How a Patient Cut Dental Costs by 50%
Meet Sarah, a busy mom who needed three cavities filled but didn’t have dental insurance. She was shocked by the $750 estimate from her local dentist.
Instead of postponing care, she signed up for an in-office membership plan through The Patient Marketplace and found a provider offering 50% off on fillings for members. Her total cost dropped to $375, saving her nearly $400 instantly.
Like Sarah, you can save money and still get quality care—just by knowing where to look!
Why You Should Act Now: Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Cavities don’t go away on their own, and delaying treatment can lead to bigger problems, including painful infections and costly root canals.
The good news? You don’t have to overpay for dental care. By using in-office membership plans and resources like The Patient Marketplace, you can find affordable, high-quality dental services today.
Take Action Now & Save on Dental Care
✅ Step 1: Visit The Patient Marketplace
✅ Step 2: Search for a dentist near you offering a membership plan
✅ Step 3: Schedule your appointment and start saving on fillings and other treatments!
Don’t let high costs stop you from getting the dental care you need. Explore your options today and keep your smile healthy—without breaking the bank!
