Picture this: You’re enjoying your favorite snack, and suddenly, a sharp pain jolts through your tooth. You visit the dentist, only to hear the dreaded words—“You need a cavity filling.” Then comes the bigger shock: the cost.
So, how much does a cavity filling cost? The answer depends on several factors, including the type of filling, location, and whether you have insurance, no insurance, or a dental membership plan.
The good news? There are smart ways to save on dental work, and today, we’ll show you exactly how—without sacrificing quality care.
How Much Does a Cavity Filling Cost? (With & Without Insurance)
1. Cavity Filling Cost by Type
Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to pay for a filling based on the material used:
| Type of Filling | Cost (Without Insurance) | Cost (With Insurance) |
|---|---|---|
| Silver Amalgam (most affordable) | $50 – $150 | $25 – $50 |
| Composite (Tooth-Colored) | $90 – $250 | $50 – $150 |
| Ceramic (Porcelain) | $250 – $450 | $100 – $250 |
| Gold Fillings (Longest-lasting) | $300 – $1,500 | $150 – $600 |
- Silver amalgam fillings are the most budget-friendly but noticeable.
- Composite (white) fillings blend in with natural teeth but cost more.
- Ceramic and gold fillings offer premium durability at a higher price point.
2. Does Dental Insurance Cover Fillings?
If you have dental insurance, you’ll typically pay 20-50% of the total cost, depending on your plan. However, many plans only cover silver amalgam fillings for back teeth, leaving you to pay more if you prefer a tooth-colored option.
✅ Pro Tip: Check if your insurance covers composite fillings for front teeth before booking an appointment.
No insurance? Don’t worry—you still have options to cut costs!
3. How to Save Money on Cavity Fillings (With or Without Insurance)
Option 1: Join an In-Office Membership Plan
Many dentists now offer membership plans where you pay a low monthly fee to get discounted services, including fillings, cleanings, and exams.
Example: The Patient Marketplace ( thepatientmarketplace.com) helps patients find affordable dental care through membership plans. You can save 30-60% compared to regular prices!
Option 2: Compare Prices with Multiple Dentists
Dentists charge different rates depending on their location and expertise. Shopping around can save you hundreds of dollars!
✅ Try This: Call 3-5 local dentists and ask for a cash-pay discount if you don’t have insurance.
Option 3: Consider a Dental Discount Plan
Unlike insurance, dental discount plans provide immediate savings (10-60% off) on all treatments, including fillings. They usually cost $100-$200 per year and can be used at thousands of dentists nationwide.
Best for: Those without insurance who need multiple fillings or routine dental care.
Option 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 cover dental treatments—saving you 20-30% on out-of-pocket costs.
✅ Pro Tip: Plan ahead—fillings may be cheaper at year-end when dentists offer promotions to use up benefits.
Real Patient Story: How a Dental Membership Plan Saved This Patient $500
Sarah, a 34-year-old teacher, needed two cavity fillings. She was quoted $600 at her regular dentist (without insurance).
Instead, she found a provider on The Patient Marketplace and joined their in-office membership plan for $25/month.
Total savings: $500 (she paid just $100 per filling instead of $300!).
Moral of the story? Membership plans can slash dental costs drastically.
Final Thoughts: Smart Ways to Pay Less for Cavity Fillings
A cavity filling doesn’t have to drain your wallet. By choosing the right dentist, exploring membership plans, and leveraging discounts, you can keep costs manageable—even without insurance.
Ready to save? Find a dentist near you and start cutting dental costs today at thepatientmarketplace.com!
