How much does a tooth filling cost?

The more teeth that require fillings, the higher the cost. Each cavity represents a separate procedure and also depends on the tooth location, adding time and materials to your dentist's overall service.

There are various materials available for fillings, including amalgam (silver fillings), composite (tooth-colored fillings), temporary and glass ionomer fillings. At Aspen Dental, we offer composite fillings, and occasionally offer amalgam fillings. Each material has different costs associated with it that affect the overall price.

Prices for dental procedures can vary depending on the location of your Aspen Dental office. Practices in urban areas or those with specialists may charge more for the same procedure than those in rural areas or with general dentists.

Dental costs can feel overwhelming, whether you have dental insurance or not. At Aspen Dental, we believe dental care should be both accessible and affordable for everyone. That’s why we aim to make things simple for you by partnering with most insurance providers and offering flexible dental financing options through third-party providers with 9 out of 10 patients receiving same-day approval. Please note, we do not accept Medicaid.

For new patients without insurance, we offer a special introductory rate of $29² for an exam and X-rays to help you get started. We're committed to making your dental care experience easy and affordable. 

Learn more about your financing and insurance options >

²Available in select offices. For new patients that do not have dental insurance. New patients must be 21 or older to receive $29 exam and x-rays, a minimum $80 value. Minimum savings is based on a comprehensive exam and full X-ray series; the value of the savings will vary based on doctor recommendation. Additional fees may be incurred in individual cases. Offer expires 12/31/24.

Absolutely, cavity fillings are an essential investment in your dental health. By addressing a cavity early, you prevent the tooth decay from advancing to more severe dental complications such as infections, abscesses or tooth loss. Fillings reinforce the tooth's enamel and structure, ensuring you can enjoy your meals without the risk of food particles getting trapped.

Moreover, opting for a filling as a preemptive measure is both cost-effective and less invasive compared to more extensive procedures like root canals or extractions later on. At Aspen Dental, we prioritize preventive care, advocating for timely fillings as a key component of preserving your overall oral health for the long term.

The lifespan of a tooth filling can vary widely, ranging from several years to over a decade, depending on the material used, your oral hygiene practices, and the filling's location in your mouth. Composite fillings, known for their tooth-like appearance, typically last between 5-7 years, whereas amalgam fillings, crafted from a robust metal alloy, can endure for a decade or longer. To maximize the longevity of your filling, it's important to maintain excellent oral hygiene, including brushing twice daily and flossing regularly once a day.

Your Aspen Dental care team will carefully assess the condition of your fillings during each visit, providing guidance on when a replacement may be necessary. We're here to ensure your smile remains bright and healthy. 

Dentists charge per filling, location of the tooth, number of surfaces the filling covers, the materials used (e.g., composite or amalgam) and the complexity of the procedure. For instance, a smaller composite resin filling typically incurs a lower cost than a larger one, as it demands less material and time.

At Aspen Dental, we are committed to transparency by providing clear, upfront pricing for fillings, ensuring you are fully informed about the costs before proceeding with any dental procedure.

With dental insurance, the cost of a dental filling will vary per filling, depending on the filling material used, tooth and surface location, and the extent of coverage provided by your insurance plan. Composite, tooth-colored fillings may be slightly more expensive than amalgam fillings, but many insurance plans cover a significant portion of the cost.

Aspen Dental works with most insurance providers to help reduce your out-of-pocket expenses, making dental fillings more affordable and accessible. 

When considering the most expensive dental filling option, porcelain or ceramic fillings, often referred to as inlays or onlays, stand out. These fillings are meticulously crafted in a dental lab to seamlessly fit the specific dimensions of the cavity, ensuring a perfect match with the natural color of your teeth.

Not only do they offer durability and an appealing aesthetic, but the premium materials and specialized lab work involved contribute to their higher cost compared to standard composite or amalgam fillings. 

Yes, fillings are generally more economical than root canals, both financially and emotionally. Treating cavities early with a filling not only helps to preserve the natural tooth but also may help to prevent the tooth decay from advancing deeper into the tooth's structure. Neglecting tooth decay can allow it to reach the tooth's pulp, necessitating a more invasive and complex procedure like a root canal.

Opting for a filling at the early stages can save your tooth and spare you the discomfort and stress associated with more extensive dental treatments. It’s important to note, a tooth filling may be required after a root canal as part of the full tooth restoration.

At Aspen Dental, we advocate for prompt treatment to safeguard your oral health and ensure a smoother, less invasive dental care experience.