How Much Does Cavity Filling Cost?
Not knowing the cavity filling cost may hold you back from seeking treatment for your teeth. Cavity filling costs vary based on factors such as the filling material used, the location of the tooth, and the complexity of the procedure. If you don’t go to the dentist soon, the damage to the teeth may become worse. Many dentists offer flexible payment plans or financing options to help manage dental costs, making treatment more accessible even without insurance. Here’s what you need to know about the types, as well as the cavity filling cost. Regular cleanings and checkups can catch dental issues early, reducing the need for costly fillings. Understanding the average costs of dental fillings can help you budget effectively for dental care without insurance.
Related Article: How Much Does it Cost for a Tooth Filling?
Types of Dental Fillings
When considering cavity filling cost, it’s important to understand the different types of dental fillings available. Each type of dental filling offers unique benefits and is suited to different treatment options, depending on your needs and preferences.
The main types of dental fillings include silver amalgam, composite resin, resin-ionomer, glass-ionomer, gold alloys, and porcelain.
Many materials can be used as cavity fillers. The choice of filling material is important for both function and appearance, as they differ in several ways, including colour, cost, and strength. Two of the most common cavity filling types are composite and amalgam. Costs for dental fillings in Canada generally depend on the type of filling chosen, and materials are the primary driver of filling cost. Let’s take a closer look at the types of cavity filling.
Glass Ionomer
With this cavity filling, glass and acrylic are blended to create the filling. Glass ionomer releases fluoride, which helps reduce caries risk by protecting the teeth. However, glass ionomer cavity filling may be less durable as compared to other kinds of cavity filling. So, you have to be ready to have it replaced after five years.
Glass ionomer is a direct filling, created and placed in the mouth during a single office visit, and does not require a temporary restoration.
Ceramic
Porcelain fillings are a type of cavity filling that is metal-free, stain-resistant, and aesthetically appealing, making them a popular choice for those seeking a natural look. These fillings are also tooth-coloured and less likely to stain compared to composite cavity fillings.
Porcelain fillings are a type of indirect filling, such as inlays and onlays, which require a dental technician to create them in a lab before placement. While they offer excellent aesthetics and are resistant to staining, porcelain fillings are more expensive and can be more brittle than other types.
However, the price can be a factor because ceramic fillers can be just as expensive as gold cavity fillings. It means that you may have to prepare for the cavity filling cost of about $250 to $4,500.
Metals
Gold was once a standard material for dental restorations, and some of the common metals for cavity filling are gold and silver amalgam. Gold fillings are a traditional option known for their high gold content, durability, and biocompatibility, but they are expensive and very noticeable. Silver amalgam fillings are long-lasting and affordable, but they are less aesthetic and contain mercury.
With a gold filling, the cost can be ten times more expensive than the silver filling, which is at around $50 to $200. Nevertheless, many people would instead get a gold filling for aesthetic reasons. Some don’t like the look of metal fillings. But a benefit of it is that it can take more than a decade before replacement is necessary. The gold cavity filling cost may range from $300 to $5,000.
Composite Cavity Filling
Composite resin fillings, also known as composite fillings, are made from a combination of quartz and glass fillers. They are tooth-colored, aesthetically pleasing, and bond well to teeth, making them a popular choice for visible areas of the mouth. Composite fillings are also durable and ideal for small or mid-sized restorations for teeth that function for moderate chewing.
Compared to amalgam, composite fillings are more costly and tend to wear faster, but they offer superior appearance and bonding properties. Composite fillings cost approximately $150–$450 per tooth.
Amalgam Cavity Filling
Amalgam fillings, also known as silver fillings or silver amalgam fillings, have been widely used for over a century due to their durability, affordability, and long history in dental care. While dental amalgam cavity fillings are sturdy and long-lasting—making them a preferred choice for molars where most chewing occurs—they also raise safety considerations because they contain mercury, and some patients may have concerns about metal sensitivity or the appearance of metal in their smile.
Amalgam fillings typically cost $100–$350 per tooth. Silver amalgam fillings are long-lasting and affordable but are less aesthetic and contain mercury.
The cavity filling is created from a combination of several metallic elements. So a downside is that they can be noticed when you open your mouth. An upside is that this type of cavity filling is very affordable.
Related Article: How Long Do Tooth Fillings Last?
Tooth Filling Cost Comparison
To help you better understand the cavity filling cost, here is a comparison table summarizing the average prices, durability, and aesthetic qualities of common dental filling materials:
| Filling Material | Average Cost (CAD) | Average Lifespan | Appearance | Key Benefits | Key Drawbacks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Silver Amalgam | $100 – $350 | 10 – 15 years | Metallic silver | Durable, affordable | Less aesthetic, contains mercury |
| Composite Resin | $150 – $450 | 5 – 7 years | Tooth-colored | Aesthetic, bonds well to the tooth | Wears faster, more costly |
| Glass Ionomer | $116 – $285 | 2 – 5 years | Tooth-colored | Releases fluoride, good for children and baby teeth | Less durable |
| Gold Alloy | $300 – $1,000+ | 15 – 30 years | Metallic gold | Very durable, biocompatible | Expensive, noticeable |
| Porcelain | $500 – $4,500 | 10 – 15 years | Tooth-colored | Stain-resistant, natural appearance | Brittle, costly |
Keep in mind that the final price may vary depending on factors such as the size and location of the affected tooth, the number of tooth surfaces involved, and any additional procedures like sedation or root canal treatment.
Dental Filling Procedure: Step-by-Step
The dental filling procedure is a straightforward process designed to restore damaged teeth and prevent further decay. Here are the typical steps involved in a tooth filling procedure:
- Examination and diagnosis of the affected tooth
- Administration of local anesthesia to numb the area
- Removal of tooth decay and cleaning of the cavity
- Preparation of the tooth for filling, including removal of previous fillings if necessary
- Placement of the filling material (composite resin, amalgam, glass ionomer, gold, or porcelain)
- Shaping and polishing of the filling to restore tooth structure and ensure a proper bite
- Bite check and adjustment to avoid discomfort or rough edges
Cavity Filling Replacement
Cavity filling can last for several years before replacement becomes necessary. However, cavity filling may wear out eventually because of chewing. It may wear out faster if you grind or clench your teeth. So you have to prepare for a replacement.
Fillings are also used to repair minor fractures and damaged teeth, helping to restore function and prevent further decay.
When you begin to notice that the cavity filling is wearing out, see your dentist as soon as you can. Early intervention and proper care can prevent further damage to the tooth and surrounding tissues. If you leave the tooth without treatment, then the damaged filling will eventually cause your tooth to crack. It means that additional repair will be necessary, and you will have to spend more on it.
If in case the decay begins to develop in the area surrounding the cavity filling, the dentist may recommend repairing the tooth. It may be by using a crown rather than a second dental filling. In any case, discuss with your dentist what the best option is for you. Discuss the options in terms of your oral health and budget.
After a filling, avoid hard or sticky foods for 24 hours to prevent damage to the filling, and contact your dentist if you experience persistent pain, swelling, or a loose filling.
Related Article: Are Dental Fillings Painful?
Risks of Tooth Decay
There are also some risks when it comes to cavity filling, such as damage and infections. Tooth sensitivity is a common issue after a filling and can be managed with proper care. Dental issues can arise if fillings are not properly maintained, leading to further complications. There may be instances where the filling can crack, break, or fall out. The damage can happen if you bite something that is too hard or if you’ve been hit in your mouth. It happens especially when you are playing contact sports. Immediately see your dentist when you notice that there are damages to your cavity filling so that you will be able to avoid any infection and irritation to the tooth.
Infection may also happen if the cavity filling pulls away from the tooth where it is attached. When this happens, a tiny space is created and can become a bacterial breeding ground. Eventually, tooth decay will ensue if this is left without treatment. Once you notice any space between the cavity filling and the tooth, go to your dentist immediately for treatment.
Proper aftercare includes brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing regularly to maintain oral health and prevent future dental issues.
Related article: How Much Does Teeth Cleaning Cost in Canada?
Takeaway
After you get a cavity filling, you may feel a bit of pain and sensitivity in that area of your mouth. The tooth filling procedure is straightforward and typically involves the use of local anesthesia to ensure a pain-free experience and patient comfort. Don’t worry about it since this discomfort will eventually go away. What you have to remember is to make sure that you follow a routine for oral care after your filling procedure. Many dental offices offer payment plans to help patients manage the cost of their filling procedure, making it easier to afford necessary dental care. Do ask your dentist about products that are specifically designed for sensitive teeth and can protect your teeth from decay and damage. Contact Osmin Denture Clinic today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can multiple fillings be done in one visit?
Yes, dentists can often place multiple fillings during a single appointment. However, the number depends on the complexity of each filling and your comfort during the procedure. Discuss treatment options with your dentist to plan accordingly.
What are the sedation options available during the dental filling process?
Sedation options vary by dental office but commonly include local anesthesia, nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral sedatives, and intravenous sedation. These help manage anxiety and ensure comfort during the procedure. Sedation costs may vary depending on the method used.
How soon can I eat or drink after a cavity filling?
It is generally recommended to avoid eating or drinking for at least 24 hours after a filling, especially if a composite resin was used, to allow the filling to harden properly. Your dentist will provide specific aftercare instructions based on the filling material.
What should I do if I accidentally bite on rough edges after a filling?
If you notice rough edges or discomfort when biting, contact your dentist promptly. They can adjust the filling to smooth out any irregularities and prevent further irritation or damage.
How does tooth extraction affect the need for fillings?
Tooth extraction may be necessary if decay is extensive and cannot be restored with fillings. After extraction, your dentist might recommend restorative dental services like bridges or implants to maintain tooth structure and oral health.