What to Expect, Costs, and How to Save Money on Fillings
Worried About Getting a Cavity Filled? Here’s What You Need to Know
Hearing that you have a cavity can be stressful, especially if you’re unsure about the procedure, costs, or pain involved. But don’t worry—getting a cavity filled is quick, simple, and nearly painless thanks to modern dental techniques.
Still, you may have concerns such as:
✔️ Does getting a cavity filled hurt?
✔️ How much does a filling cost?
✔️ Are there affordable ways to get a filling?
The good news? Yes! Fillings are one of the most affordable and common dental procedures, and there are ways to lower the cost even if you don’t have insurance. Let’s break down everything you need to know!
What Happens When You Get a Cavity Filled?
A dental filling restores a tooth damaged by decay, preventing further pain, infection, or tooth loss. The process is quick and comfortable, usually taking 30-60 minutes.
Step-by-Step Process of Getting a Cavity Filled
1️⃣ Numbing the Area – Your dentist will apply a local anesthetic to prevent pain.
2️⃣ Removing the Decay – The cavity is cleaned out using a drill or laser.
3️⃣ Filling the Tooth – A composite, silver, or ceramic filling is placed in the cavity.
4️⃣ Shaping & Polishing – The filling is smoothed and adjusted for a natural feel.
Tip: Some fillings can be done without drills or numbing using laser or air abrasion technology!
Does Getting a Cavity Filled Hurt?
Most people experience little to no pain during a cavity filling because of numbing agents and modern techniques.
What to Expect After the Procedure:
✔️ Mild sensitivity for 1-2 days (especially with cold or hot foods).
✔️ Numbness for a few hours after the anesthesia wears off.
✔️ Slight soreness if the filling is deep, but it disappears quickly.
Tip: If you have dental anxiety, ask about sedation options like laughing gas or oral sedation for a stress-free experience.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Cavity Filled?
The cost of a dental filling depends on:
✔️ Type of filling material – Composite, amalgam, ceramic, or gold.
✔️ Size of the cavity – Larger fillings require more material and time.
✔️ Dentist’s location – Prices vary based on region and dental office.
✔️ Insurance coverage – Some plans cover part or all of the cost.
Average Cost of a Cavity Filling
| Filling Type | Cost Without Insurance | Cost With Insurance (50% Coverage) | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silver Amalgam (Metal Filling) | $100 – $300 | $50 – $150 | 10-15 years |
| Composite Resin (Tooth-Colored) | $150 – $450 | $75 – $225 | 5-10 years |
| Gold Filling | $250 – $4,500 | $125 – $2,250 | 15-30 years |
| Ceramic (Porcelain) Filling | $300 – $800 | $150 – $400 | 10-20 years |
Tip: Tooth-colored fillings (composite or ceramic) blend in naturally, but they cost more than silver amalgam fillings.
How to Save Money When Getting a Cavity Filled
If filling costs seem too high, here are ways to reduce your expenses:
1. Join a Dental Membership Plan
A dental membership plan is an affordable alternative to insurance, offering discounted rates on fillings and other treatments.
✅ No waiting periods or deductibles.
✅ Instant savings of 20-50% on dental fillings.
✅ No annual maximum—use it whenever needed.
Example: Olivia needed a composite filling that cost $300. Thanks to her membership plan, she saved 40%, lowering her bill to $180.
Find affordable dental fillings at The Patient Marketplace.
2. Look for Dental Discount Plans
Dental discount plans offer reduced pricing on all dental treatments, including cavity fillings.
✔️ 10-60% off procedures
✔️ One-time annual membership fee
✔️ Accepted at participating dental offices
Example: A dental discount plan lowered Jake’s composite filling cost from $400 to $250, saving him $150 instantly.
3. Visit a Dental School for Low-Cost Treatment
Dental schools offer low-cost fillings, performed by students under licensed dentist supervision.
✔️ High-quality care at up to 50% lower prices
✔️ Longer appointment times but significant savings
Example: A dental school charged $100 instead of $250 for Sarah’s filling.
4. Compare Prices & Negotiate With Dentists
Not all dentists charge the same for fillings! Call multiple offices and ask about:
New patient specials
Cash discounts for upfront payments
In-office financing options
Example: John saved $75 by choosing a dentist who offered a cash discount.
5. Use an HSA or FSA to Cover Costs
A Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) lets you use pre-tax dollars to pay for fillings, reducing your out-of-pocket expenses.
6. Ask About Payment Plans & Financing Options
Many dentists offer interest-free financing through third-party providers like:
✔️ CareCredit
✔️ LendingClub
✔️ In-house payment plans
Example: Tom financed his $600 worth of fillings over 6 months with zero interest, making it affordable at just $100/month.
Find an Affordable Dentist Offering Discounts on Cavity Fillings
If you’re searching for affordable dental fillings, visit The Patient Marketplace to find budget-friendly dentistsoffering:
✔️ Discounted membership plans.
✔️ Flexible financing options.
✔️ Affordable, high-quality cavity fillings.
FAQs
How long does it take to get a cavity filled?
A filling usually takes 30-60 minutes, depending on the cavity’s size.
Can I eat after getting a cavity filled?
Yes! But avoid hard or sticky foods for the first few hours.
Do fillings hurt after the procedure?
Some mild sensitivity is normal but should disappear within a few days.
Can I pay for a cavity filling in installments?
Yes! Many dentists offer payment plans or financing to help spread out the cost.
Don’t wait until the cavity gets worse! Find an affordable filling provider today at The Patient Marketplace!
