Dental fillings are a common solution for cavities, cracks, and minor tooth damage.
While costs vary widely based on materials, location, and insurance coverage, this guide breaks down everything you need to know about pricing in the USA, along with tips to save money and maximize value.
Cost by filling material
The type of material significantly impacts the price, durability, and aesthetics of your filling.
Below are the average costs per tooth in 2025:
| Material | Average Cost | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Amalgam (Silver) | $100–$300 | Durable, affordable, but visible. Lasts 10–15 years. Ideal for molars. |
| Composite (Tooth-Colored) | $130–$450 | Matches natural teeth, less durable. Lasts 5–10 years. Best for visible areas. |
| Ceramic/Porcelain | $500–$4,500 | Stain-resistant, natural-looking. Lasts 10–15+ years. Lab-crafted for large cavities. |
| Gold | $300–$1,000 | Extremely durable (15–30+ years). Visible and expensive. Rarely used today. |
| Glass Ionomer | $116–$285 | Releases fluoride, ideal for baby teeth or below gums. Less durable (5 years). |
Note: Multi-surface fillings (e.g., two or three surfaces) cost 20–50% more than single-surface treatments.
Factors influencing costs
- Location: Urban areas like NYC or LA charge 15–25% more than rural regions. For example, composite fillings average $284 in California vs. $191 in Mississippi.
- Dentist Expertise: Specialists (e.g., prosthodontists) charge 10–20% more than general dentists.
- Cavity Complexity: Deep or large cavities require more material and time. A molar filling may cost $300+ vs. $150 for a front tooth.
- Additional Procedures: X-rays ($25–$250) or sedation ($40–$500) add to the total.
Insurance coverage
Most dental plans cover 50–80% of basic fillings (e.g., amalgam or composite) after deductibles.
Key considerations:
- Annual Maximums: Typically $1,000–$1,500. Exceeding this means full out-of-pocket costs.
- Material Restrictions: Insurers often classify composite fillings as “cosmetic,” requiring higher copays.
- Medicaid: Covers fillings for low-income individuals but may limit options to amalgam.
Cost-saving strategies
- Dental Schools: Services cost 30–50% less at accredited schools (e.g., NYU College of Dentistry).
- Discount Plans: Memberships like CareCredit offer 10–60% off at participating dentists.
- HSAs/FSAs: Use pre-tax dollars to pay for fillings.
Compare Quotes: Prices vary by clinic. For example, a composite filling ranges from $130 in Texas to $365 in Hawaii.
Long-term value and risks
- Durability: Amalgam and gold last decades but lack aesthetics. Composite and ceramic require replacements sooner.
- Failure Rates: Composite fillings fail at 3–11% annually due to cracks or secondary decay.
- Aftercare: Avoid hard foods, brush gently, and attend regular checkups to extend filling life.
When to act fast
Untreated cavities can lead to root canals or extractions ($1,000+).
Early treatment saves money and prevents pain.
Final thoughts
The average cost of a dental filling in the USA ranges from $100 to $4,500, depending on material and complexity.
