Worried About the Cost of a Tooth Filling? Here’s What to Expect
A tooth filling is one of the most common dental procedures—but if you’re facing an unexpected bill, you may be wondering:
- How much does a filling cost?
- Why do prices vary so much?
- Can I get an affordable filling without insurance?
The good news? Tooth fillings don’t have to break the bank! This guide will explain the average cost for a tooth filling, what factors affect pricing, and how to save big—even without insurance.
How Much Does a Tooth Filling Cost?
The cost of a tooth filling depends on the material used, the size of the cavity, and where you live.
Average Cost for a Tooth Filling by Material
| Type of Filling | Cost Per Tooth (Without Insurance) | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Silver Amalgam (Metal) | $50 – $300 | Back teeth, durability |
| Composite Resin (White) | $90 – $450 | Front & visible teeth |
| Ceramic (Porcelain) | $250 – $4,500 | Aesthetic & durability |
| Gold Fillings | $250 – $4,500 | Longevity & strength |
Pro Tip: Composite resin (white) fillings are the most common choice because they blend naturally with your teeth.
Factors That Affect the Cost of a Tooth Filling
Several things impact how much you’ll pay for a dental filling:
✔ Type of Material – Gold and ceramic fillings cost more than amalgam or composite resin.
✔ Size of the Filling – Larger cavities require more material and time, increasing the price.
✔ Location of the Tooth – Fillings on back teeth (molars) often cost more due to the difficulty of placement.
✔ Dentist’s Experience – Cosmetic or highly trained dentists charge higher fees.
✔ Where You Live – Big cities tend to have higher dental costs than rural areas.
Good news! Even if you don’t have insurance, there are ways to save—keep reading!
How to Save Money on a Tooth Filling (With or Without Insurance)
If the cost of a filling seems too high, don’t panic—there are ways to cut costs significantly.
1. Use Dental Insurance (If Available)
Most dental insurance plans cover tooth fillings, reducing your out-of-pocket expenses.
✅ Check Your Coverage – Many insurance plans cover 80-100% of basic fillings.
✅ Use Your Annual Maximum – Many policies provide $1,000–$2,000 per year for treatment.
✅ Choose an In-Network Dentist – Seeing an in-network provider means lower costs.
Tip: If your insurance doesn’t fully cover your filling, a dental membership plan can save you even more!
2. Join a Dental Membership Plan
A dental membership plan offers instant savings on tooth fillings and other procedures—without insurance.
How It Works:
- Pay a low monthly or annual fee.
- Get 30–50% discounts on common procedures.
- No waiting periods, no claim denials—just instant savings.
Example Savings:
| Procedure | Without Membership | With Membership | You Save |
|---|---|---|---|
| Composite Filling | $200 | $120 | $80 |
| Gold Filling | $4,500 | $2,500 | $2,000 |
Find a dentist offering membership discounts at ThePatientMarketplace.com.
3. Visit a Dental School for Low-Cost Fillings
Many dental schools provide discounted fillings as part of student training.
Potential Savings: 30-50% off traditional prices!
4. Look Into Dental Assistance Programs
Some local nonprofits, charities, or government programs offer low-cost or free dental care to those in need.
Pro Tip: Search for dental discount programs in your area to find low-cost options.
5. Use a Financing Plan
If you need a filling but can’t afford the cost upfront, many dentists offer low-interest financing.
Popular Financing Options:
✔ CareCredit – Interest-free for 6-24 months
✔ LendingClub – Low-interest monthly payments
✔ In-House Payment Plans – Many dentists offer custom financing options
Example: Instead of paying $300 upfront, you can pay $25/month over 12 months.
A Real Success Story: How Anna Saved $200 on a Tooth Filling
Anna, a 28-year-old college student, was shocked when she got a $300 bill for a filling.
Determined to find a more affordable option, she:
✔ Joined a dental membership plan, reducing her cost by 40%.
✔ Found a participating dentist on The Patient Marketplace.
Final cost? $120—saving her $180!
Lesson learned: With the right strategy, anyone can afford quality dental care!
Take Action: Get an Affordable Tooth Filling Today
If you need a filling but don’t want to overpay, here’s what to do next:
✅ Visit ThePatientMarketplace.com to compare filling prices near you.
✅ Ask about a membership plan to save up to 50%.
✅ Apply for financing to break the cost into monthly payments.
A healthy smile is priceless—start today!
FAQs About the Average Cost for a Tooth Filling
How much does a tooth filling cost without insurance?
Expect to pay between $50 and $4,500 per tooth, depending on the filling material and location.
Does insurance cover fillings?
Most dental insurance plans cover 80-100% of basic fillings.
Which type of filling lasts the longest?
Gold and ceramic fillings last 20+ years, while composite fillings last 5-10 years.
Are there cheaper alternatives to fillings?
Yes! For minor cavities, dental sealants or fluoride treatments may be an option.
Can I finance a tooth filling?
Yes! Many dentists offer 0% interest financing and affordable payment plans.
Final Thoughts: Get the Best Tooth Filling Without Overpaying
Tooth fillings don’t have to cost a fortune. With membership plans, financing, and discount providers, you can get high-quality dental care without breaking the bank.
Find affordable tooth fillings now at ThePatientMarketplace.com!
