Need a Tooth Filling? Here’s What to Expect
Tooth fillings are one of the most common dental procedures, but if you’ve recently been told you need one, you may be wondering:
- How much does a filling cost?
- Why do prices vary so much?
- What are the cheapest options for a tooth filling?
The good news is that tooth fillings don’t have to break the bank! Whether you have insurance or not, there are ways to get an affordable filling without compromising quality.
This guide will break down the average cost of a tooth filling, what affects pricing, and how to save money on your next dental visit.
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 of 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 (white) fillings are the most popular because they blend naturally with your teeth and are mercury-free.
Factors That Affect the Cost of a Tooth Filling
Several factors determine 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 difficulty of placement.
✔ Dentist’s Experience – Cosmetic or highly trained dentists charge higher fees.
✔ Where You Live – Dental prices vary; cities tend to be more expensive 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 – Most policies cap benefits at $1,500–$2,000 per year.
✅ Choose an In-Network Dentist – Seeing an in-network provider means lower out-of-pocket 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 fillings and other treatments—without insurance.
How It Works:
- Pay a low monthly or annual fee.
- Get 30–50% off procedures like fillings.
- 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 under expert supervision.
Potential Savings: 30-50% off traditional prices!
4. Look Into Dental Assistance Programs
Some nonprofits, charities, or government programs offer low-cost or free dental care for 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 Jake Saved $150 on a Tooth Filling
Jake, a 30-year-old mechanic, was shocked when he got a $250 bill for a filling.
Determined to find a more affordable option, he:
✔ Joined a dental membership plan, reducing his cost by 40%.
✔ Found a participating dentist on The Patient Marketplace.
Final cost? $100—saving him $150!
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 of 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!
