Tooth Filling Cost in 2026
A tooth filling costs $50 to $300 for most patients. Composite fillings (the most common) average $150 to $300 per tooth. The exact price depends on the material, number of surfaces, your location, and insurance coverage.
Amalgam (Silver)
$75 - $150
ADA: D2140-D2161
Lasts 10-15 years
Composite
$150 - $300
ADA: D2330-D2394
Lasts 5-10 years
Ceramic
$250 - $500
ADA: D2740
Lasts 15-20 years
Gold
$300 - $4,500
ADA: D2410-D2430
Lasts 20-30 years
Quick Cost Lookup
| Material | 1 Surface | 2 Surfaces | 3+ Surfaces | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amalgam | $75-$150 | $100-$200 | $125-$250 | 10-15 yrs |
| Composite | $150-$250 | $200-$350 | $250-$400 | 5-10 yrs |
| Ceramic | $250-$400 | $300-$500 | $350-$600 | 15-20 yrs |
| Gold | $300-$1,000 | $500-$1,500 | $700-$2,500 | 20-30 yrs |
Prices are 2026 US national averages. Your cost may vary by location and dentist. See cost by surfaces for full ADA code pricing.
Cost by Material
Composite (Tooth-Coloured)
$150 - $300 per tooth
The most popular filling material. Matches your natural tooth colour and bonds directly to the tooth structure. Costs more than amalgam because the placement technique requires a dry field and UV curing in layers. ADA codes D2330-D2335 (anterior) and D2391-D2394 (posterior).
Full composite pricing guideAmalgam (Silver)
$75 - $150 per tooth
The cheapest and most durable option. Amalgam contains a mix of metals including mercury, which has led to declining popularity despite its proven 150-year safety record. Many US dentists have voluntarily phased out amalgam. ADA codes D2140-D2161.
Compare all filling typesCeramic / Porcelain
$250 - $500 per tooth
Stain-resistant, highly aesthetic restorations. Often used for inlays and onlays on larger cavities. Can be fabricated in a single visit with CEREC technology or lab-made over two visits. Excellent longevity at 15 to 20 years.
Compare all filling typesGold
$300 - $4,500 per tooth
The longest-lasting option at 20 to 30 years. Gold inlays and onlays are custom lab-made, requiring two appointments. Rarely chosen today due to cost and visibility, but remains the gold standard (literally) for back-tooth durability.
Compare all filling typesOut-of-Pocket Cost Calculator
Estimated Total Cost
$150 - $250
Midpoint: $200
Your Out-of-Pocket
$150 - $250
Full cost without coverage
Estimates based on 2026 US market averages. Your actual cost depends on your specific dentist, plan, and location.
Insurance Coverage at a Glance
100%
Preventive
Cleanings, exams, X-rays
80%
Basic Restorative
Fillings (your filling falls here)
50%
Major Restorative
Crowns, inlays, onlays
Most dental plans use a 100/80/50 structure. Fillings are classified as "basic restorative" and covered at 80% after your annual deductible ($50 to $200). Some plans use 70/50 instead. Watch out for composite downgrade clauses that only pay the amalgam rate for tooth-coloured fillings.
When a Filling Is Not Enough
Small Cavity
Filling
$50 - $300
Medium Cavity
Inlay
$500 - $1,200
Large + Cusp
Onlay
$600 - $1,500
>50% Tooth Loss
Crown
$800 - $3,000
If more than 50 to 60% of your tooth structure is damaged or missing, a standard filling will not provide enough support. Your dentist will recommend an inlay, onlay, or crown depending on the extent of damage.
Full filling vs crown decision guideFrequently Asked Questions
How much does a tooth filling cost?
A tooth filling costs $50 to $300 for most patients. The most common type, composite (tooth-coloured), averages $150 to $300. Amalgam (silver) fillings cost $75 to $150, ceramic fillings run $250 to $500, and gold inlays/onlays range from $300 to $4,500.
Why do fillings cost so much?
Filling costs reflect the dentist's time, overhead (staff, equipment, rent), materials, and the complexity of your cavity. A 1-surface composite filling takes about 30 minutes and costs $150 to $250. A 3-surface filling on a molar takes longer and requires more material, pushing the price to $250 to $400.
How many fillings can you get at once?
Most dentists can do 2 to 4 fillings in a single appointment if they are in the same area of the mouth. Doing multiple fillings at once saves you separate office visit fees and numbing injections. Ask your dentist about scheduling multiple fillings together to reduce total cost.
Does getting a filling hurt?
Modern fillings are placed under local anaesthesia, so you should feel pressure but not pain during the procedure. You may experience mild sensitivity for a few days afterwards. Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is available for $25 to $50 extra if you have dental anxiety.
Can a filling fall out?
Yes, fillings can dislodge due to biting hard foods, grinding, decay underneath, or age. If a filling falls out, keep the area clean and see your dentist soon. Replacement costs are similar to a new filling, though if the cavity has grown, you may need a larger (more expensive) restoration.
What is the cheapest type of filling?
Amalgam (silver) fillings are the cheapest at $75 to $150 per tooth. They are also the most durable (10 to 15 years). However, many patients prefer composite fillings ($150 to $300) for their natural appearance, and some dentists have stopped offering amalgam entirely.
How long does a filling last?
Amalgam fillings last 10 to 15 years, composite fillings last 5 to 10 years, ceramic fillings last 15 to 20 years, and gold fillings last 20 to 30 years. Your habits (grinding, diet, oral hygiene) directly affect lifespan.
When does a cavity need a crown instead of a filling?
When more than 50 to 60% of the tooth structure is damaged, a filling cannot provide enough support. Your dentist will recommend a crown ($800 to $3,000) instead. Between 30 to 60% damage, an inlay ($500 to $1,200) or onlay ($600 to $1,500) may be an option.
toothfillingcost.com is an independent cost reference. We are not a dental practice, insurer, or dental products manufacturer. Cost figures are market averages and your actual price will vary by location, dentist, and insurance plan. Always confirm costs with your dental provider before treatment.