Dental fillings are one of the most common dental procedures. They are often needed to correct tooth decay and damage.
If you’re unsure what to expect from an upcoming dental filling bill, there’s no need to stress. Here’s a breakdown of the costs associated with tooth fillings.
What are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are usually a necessary procedure. They are preformed to correct cavities and other types of tooth damage.
Dental fillings entail drilling into the tooth and removing all of the damaged and decayed area. Typically, numbing agents are applied before the filling procedure begin. Once the decayed areas of the tooth have been removed, the missing portion is filled.
What’s the Average Cost of a Tooth Filling?
The cost of a dental filling will depend on the type of filling material. On average, you can expect to pay between $200 to $600 for a tooth filling. If you have dental insurance, your insurance will likely cover a portion of these costs.
For tooth fillings that require more materials, due to a larger cavirty size, the procedure may cost more. You can also expect to pay more for cavity fillings for multiple teeth.
The type of dental filling also determines how much does a dental filling cost. The type of tooth filling is determined by the type of material that is used to replace the removed section of the tooth. There are four main types of dental fillings.
Types of Fillings and Their Costs
There are multiple options dentists use for tooth fillings. Depending on the material used, different types of cavity fillings will usually have different costs to consider.
Cost of Composite Fillings
Composite fillings are extremely common. They are made from composite resin that is matched to the color of your tooth enamel. You can expect to pay between $130 to $350 for a composite filling. Composite fillings can be less durable than other types of fillings. They may need to be replaced after 5 years of wear.
Cost of Silver Amalgam Fillings
Silver amalgam fillings are the least expensive types of fillings. Amalgam fillings typically cost between $100 to $200 per cavity. They are made of a mixture of metals and can last up to 10 years.
The downside to silver amalgam fillings is their color. They do not match the color of the tooth and can be more noticeable.
Cost of Gold Fillings
Gold fillings can be expensive, costing between $300 to $1,000 per filling. They are extremely durable and can last several decades. However, gold is rarely used for dental fillings anymore. It can be difficult to find a dentist who still uses gold for tooth filings.
Cost of Porcelain Fillings (Inlays)
Porcelain is another option of materials, but they are not technically dental fillings. When porcelain is used to fill a cavity, it is considered in inlay. To use porcelain, an imprint will need to be made of your tooth for the inlay will be custom constructed.
Porcelain is long-lasting and resistant to staining. Porcelain inlays can get expensive. They are usually priced between $700 to $1,500 per procedure. After they are inlaid, they can last up to 15 years.
How Much Does a Filling Cost Without Insurance?
If you do not have insurance, you’ll likely need to pay for the procedure out of pocket. The total cost will depend on how many cavities you need filled and what type of filling you will receive. On average, dental fillings without insurance will cost $200 to $600 per cavity.
Ways to Get Help for Paying for Fillings
Many dentists offer payment plans for dental fillings. If a payment plan might help you cover the cost of your filling, speak to your dentist.
Another option to consider is a discount dental plan. With this option, you’ll pay an annual fee and receive discounts on dental expenses. This is not an insurance plan, but rather a way to plan ahead for routine dental cleaning and procedures.
In Summary
Dental fillings are extremely common and are often necessary to maintain good oral health. If you have any additional questions about the costs of dental fillings, give us a call. You can reach us at 480-838-3033.