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.
