Dental filling cost guide
How much does a dental filling cost in 2026?
Updated April 14, 2026
8–10 min read
Sources: ADA · AAO
Bottom line: A dental filling costs $150–$400 per tooth depending on the material and size. Composite (tooth-colored) fillings run $150–$300 for small cavities. Amalgam (silver) fillings cost $75–$150 but are rarely used today. Large fillings on back teeth can reach $300–$500. Insurance typically covers 70–80% of filling costs.
Dental filling cost by material and size
| Filling type | Material | Durability | Cost range |
|---|
| Composite resin (white) | Tooth-colored plastic | 7–10 years | $150–$300 per surface |
| Amalgam (silver) | Metal alloy | 10–15 years | $75–$150 per surface |
| Ceramic (porcelain inlay) | Porcelain | 15–20 years | $500–$900 |
| Gold inlay/onlay | Gold alloy | 20–30+ years | $700–$1,500 |
| Glass ionomer | Acrylic + glass | 5–7 years | $100–$300 |
What affects the cost of a filling?
Filling costs are calculated per surface — a cavity on one side of a tooth is one surface; a cavity wrapping around a tooth can be 3–4 surfaces. A large multi-surface composite filling on a molar can cost $300–$500, while a tiny one-surface cavity on a front tooth may be $100–$150. X-rays, anesthesia, and the dental exam are billed separately.
Does insurance cover fillings?
Fillings are classified as "basic restorative" work and most dental insurance plans cover 70–80% after your deductible. Annual coverage maximums ($1,000–$2,000) apply. If you have multiple fillings needed at once, your dentist may recommend spreading treatment across two calendar years to maximize your benefit.
Filling vs. crown: how to know which you need
A filling is appropriate when decay affects less than half the tooth and the surrounding structure is healthy. When decay is more extensive, a tooth is cracked, or a previous filling has failed, a crown provides more durable protection. See our full dental crown cost guide for a complete comparison.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a filling last? +
Composite fillings last 7–10 years on average. Amalgam fillings last 10–15 years. The lifespan depends heavily on the location in your mouth, the size of the filling, your bite forces, and oral hygiene habits. Regular checkups catch failing fillings before they turn into crowns.
Does getting a filling hurt? +
The procedure is done under local anesthesia, so you shouldn't feel pain during the filling itself. Some sensitivity to cold and pressure is normal for 1–2 weeks after placement, especially with composite fillings. If sensitivity persists beyond a month, contact your dentist.
Are white fillings more expensive than silver? +
Yes — composite (white) fillings cost roughly twice as much as amalgam (silver) fillings. However, amalgam fillings are increasingly rare as most dentists have moved to composite-only practices for aesthetic and environmental reasons. Some insurance plans still cover amalgam at a higher percentage than composite for back teeth.
Sources: American Dental Association (ADA) Health Policy Institute; American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) 2025 Consumer Survey; National Center for Health Statistics. All costs reflect 2026 US national averages and are estimates only. Individual prices vary by provider, location, and insurance plan.