Find Out What You’ll Pay and How to Save on Dental Fillings
Worried About the Cost? Here’s What You Need to Know
If your dentist has told you that you need a filling, your first question is probably:
✔️ How much?
✔️ Are there affordable ways to get one?
✔️ Does insurance cover the cost?
The good news? Dental fillings are one of the most affordable restorative treatments—and there are ways to lower your out-of-pocket costs!
Let’s break down dental filling costs, factors that affect pricing, and how to save money on your treatment.
How Much Are Fillings?
The cost of a filling varies based on material, location, and whether or not you have insurance.
Average Cost:
| Type | Cost Without Insurance | Cost With Insurance (50% Coverage) | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silver Amalgam (Metal) | $100 – $300 | $50 – $150 | 10-15 years |
| Composite Resin (Tooth-Colored) | $150 – $450 | $75 – $225 | 5-10 years |
| Ceramic (Porcelain Inlay/Onlay) | $300 – $800 | $150 – $400 | 10-20 years |
| Gold | $250 – $4,500 | $125 – $2,250 | 15-30 years |
| Glass Ionomer (Temporary) | $90 – $300 | $45 – $150 | 3-5 years |
Tip: Tooth-colored composite fillings are the most common choice for front teeth due to their natural appearance, while silver amalgam fillings are cheaper but more noticeable.
What Affects the Cost?
Several factors determine how much you’ll pay:
Material – Silver amalgam is the cheapest, while ceramic and gold fillings cost more.
Size of the Cavity – Larger fillings require more material and take longer to place.
Tooth Location – Front teeth are often more expensive because they require cosmetic precision.
Dentist’s Experience & Location – Prices vary depending on your dentist and region.
Additional Treatments – If you need a root canal or numbing injection, the total price increases.
Tip: Getting a cavity filled early prevents more costly procedures like root canals or crowns.
Does Insurance Cover the Cost?
Many dental insurance plans cover 50-80% of costs, but coverage depends on:
✔️ Your plan’s benefits – Some plans cover only basic fillings, while others cover premium materials.
✔️ Annual maximums – Most insurance plans limit coverage to $1,000 – $2,000 per year.
✔️ Waiting periods – Some plans require a 6-12 month waiting period before covering fillings.
Example: Jessica needed a $300 composite, and her insurance covered 50%, so she only paid $150 out of pocket.
Tip: If you don’t have insurance, there are still ways to get an affordable dental service!
How to Save Money Without Insurance
If you’re uninsured or your plan doesn’t fully cover dental services, here are ways to lower your dental costs:
1. Join a Dental Membership Plan
A dental membership plan is a low-cost alternative to insurance, offering discounted rates on treatments.
✅ No waiting periods or deductibles.
✅ Instant savings of 20-50% on dental fillings.
✅ No annual maximum—use it whenever needed.
Example: Jason needed a composite filling costing $350. Thanks to his membership plan, he saved 40%, lowering his bill to $210.
Find affordable dental fillings at The Patient Marketplace.
2. Look for Dental Discount Plans
Dental discount plans offer reduced pricing on all dental treatments..
✔️ Provide 10-60% off procedures
✔️ Require an annual membership fee
✔️ Work at participating dental offices
Example: A discount plan lowered Mia’s cost from $400 to $250, saving her $150 instantly.
3. Visit a Dental School for Low-Cost
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 $120 instead of $300 for Tyler’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: Sarah saved $100 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
If you’re searching for affordable dental services, visit The Patient Marketplace to find budget-friendly dentistsoffering:
✔️ Discounted membership plans.
✔️ Flexible financing options.
✔️ Affordable, high-quality cavity fillings.
FAQs
How long do fillings last?
✔️ Silver amalgam fillings: 10-15 years
✔️ Composite fillings: 5-10 years
✔️ Ceramic fillings: 10-20 years
Can I pay in installments?
Yes! Many dentists offer payment plans or financing to help spread out the cost.
Do fillings hurt?
Most patients feel little to no pain thanks to local anesthesia and modern techniques.
Don’t wait until the cavity worsens! Find an affordable filling provider today at The Patient Marketplace!
