How to Fill Cavities?
Cavities are one of the most common dental issues, affecting millions of people every year. If left untreated, cavities can lead to pain, infection, and costly procedures like root canals or tooth extractions.
If you’re wondering how to fill cavities and how to make the process more affordable, this guide will walk you through the cavity filling process, types of fillings, and cost-saving options to help you maintain your oral health.
What Is a Cavity Filling?
A cavity filling is a restorative dental treatment that removes decayed tooth material and fills the space with a durable material to restore the tooth’s function and prevent further decay.
Signs You Might Need a Cavity Filling
✔ Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
✔ Visible holes or dark spots on the tooth
✔ Toothache or pain while chewing
✔ Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
If you notice these symptoms, see a dentist as soon as possible to prevent worsening decay.
How Dentists Fill Cavities: Step-by-Step Process
Filling a cavity is a simple, painless procedure that usually takes 30-60 minutes per tooth.
Step 1: Numbing the Area
✔ The dentist applies a local anesthetic to numb the affected tooth and surrounding gums.
Step 2: Removing the Decay
✔ The decayed portion of the tooth is removed using a dental drill or laser.
Step 3: Cleaning the Tooth
✔ The cleaned area is disinfected to remove any lingering bacteria.
Step 4: Filling the Cavity
✔ The dentist fills the space with a durable filling material (such as composite, amalgam, or porcelain).
Step 5: Shaping & Polishing
✔ The filling is shaped and polished to match the tooth’s natural contour.
Most patients can eat and drink normally after a few hours, but avoid chewing on the treated side immediately.
Types of Cavity Fillings & Their Costs
| Filling Type | Appearance | Durability | Cost Without Insurance | Cost With Membership Plan |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Silver Amalgam | Silver/Gray | 10-15 years | $100 – $250 | $50 – $150 |
| Composite Resin | Tooth-Colored | 5-10 years | $150 – $300 | $75 – $200 |
| Gold Fillings | Gold | 20+ years | $250 – $4,500 | $200 – $800 |
| Porcelain Fillings | Tooth-Colored | 10-15 years | $300 – $4,500 | $250 – $900 |
Composite and porcelain fillings blend with natural teeth, while amalgam and gold fillings last longer but are more noticeable.
How to Save Money on Cavity Fillings
If you need cavity treatment but worry about the cost, there are several affordable options to help you lower expenseswithout compromising quality.
1. Use a Dental Membership Plan
A dental membership plan offers discounted rates on cavity fillings without insurance.
✅ Save 30-60% on cavity treatments
✅ No waiting periods, deductibles, or annual maximums
✅ Immediate access to affordable care
Example Savings: A composite filling that costs $250 could be reduced to $125 with a membership plan.
Find an affordable dental membership plan at The Patient Marketplace.
2. Ask About Payment Plans
Many dentists offer financing options, allowing you to spread out the cost of cavity treatment.
✔ CareCredit – 0% interest financing for qualified applicants.
✔ Sunbit – Easy monthly payment plans with high approval rates.
✔ In-house payment plans – Some dental offices offer low-interest or no-interest payment options.
3. Visit a Dental School for Low-Cost Fillings
Dental schools provide discounted fillings performed by students under professional supervision.
✔ Savings of 30-60% compared to private dental practices
✔ High-quality care at a lower cost
4. Look for New Patient Specials
Many dental clinics offer discounts for first-time patients, such as:
✔ Discounted exams & X-rays
✔ Percentage off first filling
✔ Referral bonuses
Call local dentists and ask about their cavity treatment specials!
5. Use an HSA or FSA Account
A Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) allows you to pay for fillings tax-free, reducing overall costs.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Cavities
Cavities don’t heal on their own, and delaying treatment can lead to:
⚠ Larger cavities that require costly crowns or root canals
⚠ Infections that spread to the jawbone and other teeth
⚠ Severe tooth pain and potential tooth loss
Filling a cavity early saves you money and protects your overall oral health.
Success Story: How One Patient Saved 50% on Cavity Treatment
Meet Jake, a 35-year-old who avoided the dentist due to cost concerns. After experiencing tooth pain, he was told he needed three fillings.
Initial Cost Estimate: $900 for three composite fillings.
His Solution: Jake joined a membership plan through The Patient Marketplace for $25 per month.
Final Cost: $450 total—a 50% savings!
“I was relieved to find an affordable way to get my cavities filled. Now, I don’t wait until pain forces me to see a dentist!” – Jake, 35
FAQs About How to Fill Cavities
How much does it cost to fill a cavity without insurance?
A silver filling costs $100 – $250, while composite fillings cost $150 – $300 per tooth.
Is there a way to get free or low-cost cavity fillings?
Some nonprofits and dental schools provide low-cost or sliding-scale fillings for those in need.
What happens if I don’t get a cavity filled?
Untreated cavities can lead to root canals, extractions, and severe infections—all of which are more expensive than a simple filling.
Where can I find an affordable dentist for cavity treatment?
Check The Patient Marketplace for discounted membership plans at trusted dental offices.
Final Thoughts: Get Cavities Filled Without Overpaying
Filling a cavity early prevents bigger problems, and affordable options exist to help you save on treatment.
How to Save on Cavity Treatment:
✔ Join a dental membership plan (save 30-60%)
✔ Use financing or payment plans
✔ Look for new patient specials
Need a cavity filled? Visit The Patient Marketplace to find affordable treatment options today!
