The cost of filling a cavity in the USA depends on the type of filling material, location, insurance coverage, and complexity of the procedure.
Below is a detailed breakdown of costs, insurance considerations, and tips to save money.
Cost by Filling Material
Different materials vary in price, durability, and aesthetics:
| Material | Average Cost (Per Tooth) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Amalgam (Silver) | $100 – $300 | Durable, cost-effective, but visible. Lasts 10–15 years. Ideal for molars. |
| Composite (Tooth-Colored) | $130 – $450 | Matches natural teeth; lasts 5–10 years. Higher cost due to aesthetics. |
| Ceramic/Porcelain | $400 – $4,500 | Stain-resistant, natural-looking. Lab-crafted for large cavities; lasts 10–15+ years. |
| Gold | $300 – $2,500 | Extremely durable (15–30+ years) but expensive and visible. |
| Glass Ionomer | $100 – $300 | Releases fluoride; ideal for children or root cavities. Less durable (5 years). |
Note: Multi-surface fillings cost 20–50% more than single-surface treatments.
Factors Influencing Costs
- Geographic Location: Urban areas (e.g., NYC, 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. Molar fillings often cost $300+.
- Additional Procedures:
- X-rays: $25–$250.
- Sedation: $40–$500.
Insurance Coverage
Most plans cover 50–80% of basic fillings (amalgam or composite) after deductibles. Key considerations:
- Annual Maximums: Typically $1,000–$1,500. Exceeding this means full out-of-pocket costs.
- Material Restrictions: Composite fillings may be classified as “cosmetic,” requiring higher copays.
- Medicaid: Covers amalgam fillings for low-income individuals but rarely covers composites or gold.
Example: A $300 composite filling with $80 out-of-pocket after deductible.
Regional Cost Variations
Costs vary significantly by U.S. region (based on 2024–2025 data):
| Region | Composite (1 Surface) | Amalgam (1 Surface) |
|---|---|---|
| Pacific (CA, WA) | $220 – $381 | $166 – $285 |
| New England (CT, MA) | $206 – $384 | $159 – $275 |
| South Central (TX) | $189 – $342 | $145 – $266 |
Cost-Saving Strategies
- Dental Schools: Save 30–70% at accredited institutions (e.g., NYU College of Dentistry.
- Discount Plans: Memberships like CareCredit offer 10–60% off at participating clinics.
- Negotiate Cash Discounts: Some dentists reduce fees for upfront payments.
- Travel for Care: Consider Mexico or Turkey for lower costs (e.g., composite fillings in Turkey: $60–$100).
Risks of Delaying Treatment
Ignoring cavities can lead to:
- Root Canals: $1,000+.
- Tooth Extraction: $300–$1,100.
- Infection: Requires antibiotics or surgery, increasing costs by 200–300%.
FAQs
Q: How long does a filling take?
A: 20–90 minutes, depending on cavity size and material.
Q: Are silver fillings safe?
A: The FDA deems amalgam safe, but it’s not recommended for pregnant individuals or children under 6 due to mercury conten
Q: Do fillings hurt?
A: Local anesthesia minimizes pain. Mild sensitivity is common post-procedure.
Final Thoughts
Cavity filling costs in 2025 range from $100 to $4,500, with amalgam and composite being the most common.
While insurance reduces out-of-pocket expenses, uninsured patients can explore dental schools, discount plans, or international options.
Prioritize treatment to avoid costly complications.
Dr. Mary G. Trice is a renowned pedodontist based in Queens, NY. With an unwavering dedication to children’s dental health. In addition to her clinical practice, Dr. Trice is the writer and manager behind the informative platform pediatricdentistinqueensny.com. Through this site, she offers valuable insights, tips, and resources for parents and guardians, aiming to bridge the gap between professional dental care and everyday oral hygiene practices at home.