What Is a Resin-Based Composite Two-Surface Posterior Filling?
A resin-based composite two-surface posterior filling is a tooth-colored filling used to restore decay or damage in the back teeth (molars and premolars). This filling type is designed to blend naturally with your tooth while providing durability and strength.
Unlike silver amalgam fillings, composite fillings are mercury-free and offer a more aesthetic solution for cavities in posterior teeth. However, they are more expensive than traditional silver fillings, leaving many patients wondering, how much do resin-based composite two-surface posterior fillings cost, and how can I save?
The good news is that there are affordable options, even if you don’t have dental insurance.
Cost of Resin-Based Composite Two-Surface Posterior Fillings
The price of a resin-based composite two-surface posterior filling depends on factors such as the size of the cavity, location of the tooth, and whether insurance covers part of the cost.
| Filling Type | Cost Without Insurance | Cost With Insurance | Durability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silver Amalgam (2 surfaces) | $100 – $300 | $50 – $150 | 10-15 years |
| Resin-Based Composite (2 surfaces) | $150 – $450 | $90 – $250 | 5-7 years |
| Ceramic (Porcelain) Filling | $800 – $2,000 | $500 – $1,500 | 15+ years |
| Gold Fillings | $600 – $2,500 | $400 – $2,000 | 15-30 years |
Silver fillings are the cheapest, while resin-based composite fillings cost more but provide a natural look.
Insurance covers a portion of composite fillings, but not always at the same rate as silver amalgam.
Tip: If appearance is important, composite fillings are a great choice for visible molars and premolars.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Composite Fillings
The final price of a resin-based composite two-surface posterior filling depends on several factors:
1. Tooth Location & Size of Cavity
- Smaller cavities cost less, while larger cavities requiring more composite resin cost more.
- Molars (back teeth) require stronger materials, leading to a higher cost.
2. Dentist’s Experience & Location
- Experienced dentists may charge higher fees for aesthetic restorations.
- Urban dental clinics tend to charge more than rural or suburban practices.
3. Additional Dental Work
- X-rays: $25 – $200
- Anesthesia or numbing agents: Included in most cases
- Tooth shaping or contouring: May add to the cost
4. Insurance Coverage & Membership Plans
- Insurance may only cover part of the cost of a composite filling.
- Some membership plans reduce out-of-pocket costs for fillings.
How to Save Money on Composite Fillings Without Insurance
If you don’t have dental insurance, you might be worried about high costs. Fortunately, there are ways to make composite fillings more affordable!
1. Join a Dental Membership Plan – The Smartest Way to Save
Dental membership plans offer major discounts on composite fillings, exams, and cleanings—without the need for traditional insurance.
✔️ Example Savings with a Membership Plan:
- Composite filling: $400 → $150
- Silver filling: $200 → $80
Find an affordable dentist with a membership plan at The Patient Marketplace
2. Visit a Dental School for Low-Cost Fillings
Dental schools provide affordable composite fillings, performed by students under professional supervision.
3. Look for Sliding Scale or Free Dental Clinics
Some community clinics offer low-cost or free dental fillings based on income eligibility.
4. Ask for a Payment Plan
Many dentists allow patients to split payments over several months, making treatment more affordable.
5. Compare Prices from Multiple Dentists
Getting quotes from different dental offices can help you find the best deal for composite fillings.
A Patient’s Story: How Sarah Saved $300 on Her Composite Filling
Sarah, a 30-year-old teacher, had a cavity in her molar and wanted a composite filling instead of silver amalgam. However, her dentist quoted her $450, which was more than she could afford.
Original Quote: $450
Joined a Membership Plan: Paid only $150
Total Savings: $300+
Thanks to The Patient Marketplace, Sarah was able to restore her tooth affordably!
Why You Shouldn’t Delay a Cavity Filling
Ignoring a cavity can lead to:
Larger cavities requiring expensive crowns
Tooth infections requiring root canals ($1,000 – $2,500 per tooth)
Complete tooth loss requiring a dental implant ($3,000 – $6,000 per tooth)
A simple $150-$450 filling today can prevent thousands in future dental bills!
How to Get the Best Price for Composite Fillings
Follow these steps to save on your composite filling procedure:
1️⃣ Call multiple dentists to compare prices.
2️⃣ Join a membership plan through The Patient Marketplace.
3️⃣ Look for community health clinics or dental schools.
4️⃣ Ask about payment plans to spread out the cost.
5️⃣ Consider alternative materials if cost is a concern.
Pro Tip: Good oral hygiene (brushing, flossing, avoiding sugary foods) can prevent cavities and save you money in the long run!
Final Thoughts: Get Affordable Composite Fillings Today
Resin-based composite two-surface posterior fillings are an excellent option for restoring decayed molars and premolars. Whether you have insurance or not, you don’t have to overpay!
✔️ Best Budget-Friendly Option? Membership plans and dental schools offer low-cost composite fillings.
✔️ Want a Natural Look? Composite fillings blend seamlessly with your teeth.
✔️ Looking for Discounts? Find a dentist through The Patient Marketplace.
FAQs
How much does a resin-based composite two-surface posterior filling cost without insurance?
Prices range from $150 to $450 per tooth, depending on the size of the cavity and dentist’s fees.
Are composite fillings better than silver fillings?
Composite fillings blend naturally with your teeth but cost more than silver fillings.
Where can I find affordable composite fillings?
Check out The Patient Marketplace to find dentists offering membership discounts.
Need a composite filling? Find an affordable dentist today!
