Need a Cavity Filled? Here’s What to Expect
If you’ve been told you need a cavity filling, you may be wondering:
- How much does filling a cavity cost?
- What affects the price of a filling?
- Are there ways to get an affordable filling without sacrificing quality?
The good news is that fillings don’t have to be expensive. Whether you have insurance or not, there are ways to save money on dental care while still getting a high-quality, durable filling.
This guide will break down the average cost of filling a cavity, what impacts pricing, and how you can cut costs while protecting your oral health.
What Is the Average Cost of Filling a Cavity?
The cost of filling a cavity depends on the type of material used, the location of the tooth, and whether additional treatments are needed.
Average Cost of a Cavity 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 choice because they blend naturally with your teethand don’t contain mercury.
What Affects the Cost of a Cavity Filling?
Several key factors determine how much you’ll pay for a cavity filling:
✔ Type of Material – Gold and porcelain fillings cost more than amalgam or composite resin.
✔ Size of the Cavity – Larger cavities require more material and time, increasing the price.
✔ Location of the Tooth – Fillings on back teeth (molars) often cost more due to placement difficulty.
✔ Dentist’s Experience – Cosmetic or highly trained dentists may charge higher fees.
✔ Where You Live – Dental costs are generally higher in major cities compared to small towns.
Good news! Even if you don’t have insurance, there are ways to save—keep reading!
How to Save Money on a Cavity Filling (With or Without Insurance)
If the cost of filling a cavity seems too high, don’t worry—there are ways to cut costs significantly.
1. Use Dental Insurance (If Available)
Most dental insurance plans cover cavity 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 provide $1,500–$2,000 per year for dental treatments.
✅ 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 help you save even more!
2. Join a Dental Membership Plan
A dental membership plan offers instant savings on cavity 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 Cavity Filling
Jake, a 30-year-old mechanic, was shocked when he got a $250 bill for a cavity 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 Cavity Filling Today
If you need a cavity 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 Filling a Cavity
How much does filling a cavity 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 cavity filling?
Yes! Many dentists offer 0% interest financing and affordable payment plans.
Find affordable cavity fillings now at ThePatientMarketplace.com!
