If you have cavities or a damaged tooth, you may need a dental filling to treat it. If left untreated, tooth decay could cause an abscess or severe pain. Dental fillings are one of the dental procedures common procedures that can be performed in a dentist's office. 1 Read on to find out what to expect and how much they cost.
What are dental fillings?
Dental fillings are a way to repair your tooth if it is damaged or decayed. If your dentist decides that you need a filling, he or she will first need to remove the decayed parts of the tooth with a drill or other special tools. You may be given anesthesia to numb the tooth and the area around it before drilling. The dentist then fills the cavity with a durable material such as resin. Finally, he shapes and polishes the tooth once the filling hardens. 2
How much does a dental filling cost without insurance?
On average, the cost of a dental filling without insurance could range from $200 to $600. This is just an average estimate, and the price could be as low as $100 or as high as $4,000. The cost of a dental filling procedure varies based on a number of factors, including: 3
- Cavity size
- The material used to fill
- How many teeth require fillings?
- The types of teeth that need fillings
Dental fillings are often necessary procedures. If you don't have dental insurance, you can save money on dental work through a discount dental plan. These plans are not insurance plans; They charge an annual fee in exchange for access to discounted dental care services from participating providers. 4
Types of cavities fillings and costs
The cost of your dental filling may depend on the type of material your dentist uses. Here are some common types of filling materials: 5
Metal filling (also known as silver amalgam)
Metal amalgam fillings are made of a mixture of metals, such as silver, tin, or copper. They are very durable, but occasionally have the potential to expand and create cracks in the teeth. Because metal amalgam fillings are noticeably different in color from your teeth, they are often the cheapest option. Amalgam fillings can cost from $50 to $200 for 1-2 teeth, or $150 to $400 for 3 or more teeth. 6
Composite fillings
Composite fillings are made of a resin designed to match the color of tooth enamel. They are not as noticeable as metal fillings, but they are less durable. Composite fillings can cost $150-$300 for 1-2 teeth, or $200-$550 for 3 or more teeth. 7
gold fillings
Like metal amalgam fillings, gold fillings are markedly different from the rest of the tooth enamel. However, gold fillings are durable and may not need replacement for several decades. They can cost between $300 and $1,000 for 1-2 teeth, and $450-$1,800 for 3 or more teeth. 8 However, gold fillings are rare today, and most dentists no longer use gold as a filling material.
porcelain fillings (inlays)
Porcelain fillings, or inlays, are the most expensive option to repair a decayed or damaged tooth. It requires a longer procedure than other filling materials. After drilling the cavity, the dentist takes an impression of the tooth. The dentist uses this impression to make a ceramic filling. These porcelain inlays are durable and stain resistant. They can cost between $300 and $4,500 for each procedure.
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