Got a cavity? You’re definitely not the only one. Cavities are super common, and most people end up needing a filling at some point. But here’s the thing—fillings aren’t all the same. Some are pricier. Some last longer. Some look better. So, let’s break down the dental filling cost by type—composite, amalgam, and gold. That way, you’ll know what to expect.
We’ll also talk about how fillings actually work, why things sometimes go wrong afterward—like a gum infection after root canal—and what you can do if it happens.
Let’s get into it.
What’s a Dental Filling Anyway?
A dental filling is used to fix a hole in your tooth. That hole usually comes from decay. When bacteria eat away at your enamel, you end up with a cavity. Your dentist cleans out the decayed part and then fills the space.
This stops the decay from spreading and helps your tooth work like normal again.
Now, different materials can be used to fill the tooth. And that’s where things like price, durability, and appearance start to matter.
Types of Dental Fillings
1. Composite Fillings (Tooth-Colored)
These are made from a mix of plastic resin and glass. The big plus? They match the color of your teeth. Great choice if the filling is in a spot people can see when you smile.
Pros:
- Blends with your teeth
- Bonds tightly to the tooth
- Best for small to mid-size cavities
Cons:
- Wears down faster than metal
- Not ideal for heavy pressure areas like molars
2. Amalgam Fillings (Silver)
These silver-colored fillings are made from mercury, silver, tin, and copper. They’ve been used for a long time, and dentists still trust them for their strength.
Pros:
- Very strong and long-lasting
- One of the cheapest options
- Ideal for back teeth
Cons:
- Doesn’t match tooth color
- Expands and contracts with temperature
- Some people worry about mercury, but risk is low
3. Gold Fillings
Gold fillings are made from a special metal mix. They’re made in a lab and often need two appointments to complete.
Pros:
- Super durable
- Won’t corrode
- Can last for 15–20 years or more
Cons:
- Expensive
- Very noticeable
- Takes longer to get done
Dental Filling Cost Breakdown
So, what’s the dental filling cost like for each type? Here’s a general idea:
| Filling Type | Cost Per Tooth |
| Composite | $150 – $300 |
| Amalgam | $100 – $200 |
| Gold | $600 – $2,500 |
These prices vary depending on where you live, how experienced your dentist is, and how tricky the cavity is to fill.
Composite Filling Cost
- One surface: $150 to $200
- More than one surface: $200 to $300
- Insurance might cover part of the cost
- Great for visible teeth
Composites are popular because they look natural. They’re more expensive than silver fillings but less obvious in your smile.
Amalgam Filling Cost
- One surface: $100 to $150
- Multiple surfaces: $150 to $200
- Often covered fully by insurance
- Best for back teeth
These are practical and affordable. If you’re looking for strength and don’t care about color, amalgam works well.
Gold Filling Cost
- Starting at $600 for one surface
- Can go up to $2,500 for bigger areas
- Insurance might help a little, but not much
- Ideal for people wanting long-term durability
Gold fillings last a long time. But they’re expensive and take more effort to place.
What Else Impacts the Dental Filling Cost?
A few more things can change how much you pay:
Tooth Location
Back teeth are harder to fill, so they may cost more.
Dentist’s Experience
A seasoned dentist may charge higher fees—but they might also do a better job.
Where You Live
Urban clinics tend to charge more. Smaller towns often have lower fees.
Insurance
Most plans cover basic fillings. But fancier ones like gold or composite in molars might not be fully covered.
Signs You Might Need a Filling
Watch out for these signs:
- Tooth pain or pressure
- Hot, cold, or sweet stuff hurts
- You see a dark spot or a hole
- Floss keeps tearing near the same spot
- Food gets stuck between certain teeth
If something feels off, don’t wait. The sooner you fix it, the cheaper and easier it’ll be.
Can You Get a Gum Infection After Root Canal or Filling?
Yes, you can. A gum infection after root canal can happen if bacteria were left behind or if the seal wasn’t perfect. Sometimes the decay was just too close to the root, and the infection comes back.
Look for signs like:
- Swollen or painful gums
- Bleeding around the tooth
- Bad smell or taste
- Pus or an abscess
- Fever or fatigue
Why Do Gum Infections Happen?
Here’s what might cause them:
- Root canal wasn’t fully cleaned
- Some root canals are hard to find and might get missed
- A cracked tooth letting in bacteria
- Filling or crown didn’t seal the tooth properly
Infections can happen even if everything was done right. Some are just stubborn.
What To Do If You Suspect an Infection
Don’t ignore it. A gum infection after root canal can get worse fast.
Here’s what you should do:
- Call your dentist
- Take antibiotics if they prescribe them
- Rinse with warm salt water
- Take over-the-counter pain meds
- Don’t chew on that side
You might need more treatment—maybe another root canal or a small surgery to clear it up.
How to Keep Fillings and Gums Healthy
Here’s how to take care of your teeth after getting fillings:
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss every night—yes, every night
- See your dentist every 6 months
- Don’t bite hard stuff like pens or ice
- Get your fillings checked regularly
Stay on top of your routine, and your dental work can last years.
Final Thoughts
Fillings are nothing to fear. Once you know the dental filling cost for different materials—composite, amalgam, and gold—it’s easier to pick what works for your budget and needs.
And if you’re dealing with a gum infection after root canal, don’t wait it out. Call your dentist, follow their advice, and take good care of your mouth. That one phone call can save you a lot of pain (and money) later.
FAQs
Q: Are composite fillings worth the extra cost?
Yes, especially for front teeth. They look better and are less noticeable.
Q: Can I prevent a gum infection after root canal?
You can lower the risk by keeping the area clean, taking your meds, and going to your follow-up visit.
Q: Do all fillings last the same amount of time?
No. Gold lasts the longest, followed by amalgam. Composite usually needs replacement sooner.
Q: How do I know if my filling is failing?
If you feel pain, pressure, or notice a crack or gap, visit your dentist right away.
