How Much Do Dental Fillings Cost?

If a tooth has been damaged due to a cavity or an accident, it is extremely important that the tooth is repaired. The repair may be done in different ways, but one of the most common forms of tooth repair for these scenarios is the placement of a tooth filling.

What Is a Tooth Filling?

A tooth filling is a dental prosthetic that is used to fill in an area in which a tooth has been damaged. This damage is often due to tooth decay, but may also be due to injury. Tooth fillings are made with various materials, and which material that is used depends on factors such as costs, allergies, availability and more.

Why Would I Need a Tooth Filling?

Tooth fillings are often necessary for the repair of a tooth after a cavity has been treated. There will be a space leftover in a decayed tooth that cannot be left unfilled. If the area is not filled, it will be more susceptible to decay, infection and damage. It will also be quite painful. A filling helps to restore the integrity of a tooth, and makes the tooth functional once again. While the materials that are used may affect the durability of the filling, fillings will often return the full functionality of the tooth. Because of this, patients with fillings often don’t even notice they are there.

Fillings can also restore the aesthetic look of the tooth. While some materials are more noticeable (such as gold), other materials can be made to look similar to the original tooth. Finally, fillings can help to reduce the risk of future decay, and can help to prevent infection.

Factors Involved in the Tooth Filling Cost

There are different factors that are involved in the tooth filling cost. The tooth filling cost may be higher or lower depending on the tooth filling cost factors discussed below:

Tooth Filling Cost Factor #1: Materials

When it comes time to have a filling placed, patients are often given different materials to choose from, including: composite, gold, amalgam and more. Each of these materials have their advantages, disadvantages and costs. It’s important to consider not only the upfront cost of the materials that you choose to go with, but also how long they will last. This will help to determine their actual long-term value.

Tooth Filling Cost Factor #2: Insurance

Many insurance plans will cover dental fillings. Still, it’s important to check with your insurance company about the level of coverage, and what factors will influence the amount that they will cover (such as materials used).

Tooth Filling Cost Factor #3: Additional Procedures

Often times a cavity will need to be addressed before a filling is placed. This, along with other procedures that need to be performed, will likely affect the tooth filling cost.

Set an Appointment

In order to determine whether a tooth filling is necessary, and to learn more about the tooth filling cost and the tooth filling procedure, set an appointment with your dentist.

More About Dental Fillings : What are Temporary Fillings?