Dental Fillings
Dental fillings repair teeth damaged by decay (cavities) or minor fractures. The dentist removes the decayed portion of the tooth, cleans the area, and fills it with a durable material that restores the tooth's shape and function. Modern tooth-colored composite fillings bond directly to the tooth and look completely natural.
Typical range: $150–$450 per tooth
What to expect
A filling is one of the most routine dental procedures. The dentist numbs the area with local anesthetic (for most fillings), removes the decay using a drill or laser, cleans and disinfects the cavity, then layers the composite resin material, shaping and curing each layer with a special light. The filling is polished to match your bite. The entire process typically takes 20–45 minutes per tooth. There's no downtime — you can eat and drink normally once the numbness wears off.
What it typically costs
National range: $150–$450 per tooth. Composite (white): $150–$450. Amalgam (silver): $100–$300. Insurance typically covers 70–80%.
See the full cavity fillingscost guide →Common questions about cavity fillings
How much do dental fillings cost?
Composite (tooth-colored) fillings cost $150–$450 per tooth depending on size and location. Amalgam (silver) fillings are less expensive at $100–$300. Most dental insurance covers 70–80% of filling costs after your deductible. Front teeth fillings are usually smaller and less expensive than back teeth.
How long do fillings last?
Composite fillings typically last 7–10 years. Amalgam fillings can last 10–15 years or longer. Longevity depends on the filling size, your oral hygiene, diet, and habits like teeth grinding. Regular dental checkups catch worn or leaking fillings before they cause problems.
Does getting a filling hurt?
Most fillings are done under local anesthesia, so you shouldn't feel pain — just pressure and vibration. Very small, shallow fillings may not need numbing. Post-procedure sensitivity to hot or cold for a few days is normal and temporary. Let your dentist know if sensitivity persists beyond a week.
Silver vs. white fillings — which is better?
Composite (white) fillings bond directly to the tooth, require less drilling, and look natural. They're the standard for visible teeth. Amalgam (silver) fillings are more durable and less expensive, making them a practical choice for large cavities in back teeth where appearance matters less. Discuss preferences with your dentist.
Dental Fillings by city
Local guides show pricing context, insurance patterns, and verified practices that handle cavity fillings.
Los Angeles, CA
Cavity Fillings in Los Angeles: what to expect, costs, and matching.
New York City, NY
Cavity Fillings in New York City: what to expect, costs, and matching.
San Francisco, CA
Cavity Fillings in San Francisco: what to expect, costs, and matching.
Abbotsford, WI
Cavity Fillings in Abbotsford: what to expect, costs, and matching.
Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD
Cavity Fillings in Aberdeen Proving Ground: what to expect, costs, and matching.
Aberdeen Township, NJ
Cavity Fillings in Aberdeen Township: what to expect, costs, and matching.
Other procedure guides
Need a cavity fillings provider you trust?
Tell Dee what matters (cost, insurance, anxiety, comfort) and she'll match you with practices that handle cavity fillings and fit how you want to be treated.
Find your match →Free · 2 minutes · Personality-to-practice matching