Key Takeaways:
- Dental fillings restore tooth structure damaged by decay or trauma.
- The average cost ranges from $150 to $425, depending on the material and location.
- Composite fillings cost more than amalgam fillings, but are more aesthetically pleasing.
- Insurance typically covers part of the cost for standard fillings.
- Sedation, additional procedures, and complex fillings increase the total price.
- Art of Dentistry offers financing options to help patients manage out-of-pocket costs.
What Are Tooth Fillings?
A tooth filling is typically used to repair minor fractures, cavities, or otherwise compromised tooth surfaces. Modern filling materials restore the tooth’s structure and functionality, improving bite alignment and preventing further decay.
Enamel loss, a common result of untreated decay, can lead to increased tooth sensitivity. In most cases, a proper dental filling significantly reduces or eliminates this sensitivity. However, if the damage is extensive, alternative or additional treatments may be necessary to restore the tooth.
Root Canal Therapy
If decay or infection has reached the tooth’s pulp (nerve), a root canal may be required. This procedure involves removing the infected tissue, disinfecting the canal, and sealing it. Root canal treatment is often paired with antibiotics to eliminate infection.
Dental Crowns
When a tooth is too weakened or structurally compromised for a filling to be effective, a dental crown may be placed over the tooth. Crowns provide additional strength, protection, and aesthetic restoration.
Dental Bridges or Implants
If a tooth is damaged beyond repair and requires extraction, the gap can be restored with a dental bridge or a dental implant. These solutions maintain bite alignment, prevent neighbouring teeth from shifting, and restore function.
"Timely treatment of cavities with fillings helps patients preserve natural teeth and avoid more invasive procedures down the line."
Read also: Dental Implants: The Procedure & How They Work
Types of Tooth Fillings
There are several types of dental fillings used in Toronto practices, each offering unique benefits:
- Silver Amalgam: A durable and affordable mixture of mercury and silver alloy. Approved by the WHO and global dental authorities.
- Composite Resin (Tooth-Coloured): A natural-looking blend of plastic resin and powdered glass, often used for visible teeth.
- Resin-Ionomer Cement: A light-cured blend of resin and glass polymer, best for small fillings and baby teeth.
- Glass-ionomer cement: Often used for temporary fillings or beneath crowns, it releases fluoride for added protection.
- Gold Alloys: Extremely durable and biocompatible, but very costly and less aesthetic.
- Porcelain: Used for inlays, onlays, or temporary restoration; resistant to staining and wear.
- Cobalt-Chrome or Nickel Alloys: Typically used in crowns or as cement for dental prosthetics.
Comparison Table of Tooth Filling Materials
Silver Amalgam
Appearance: Metallic Silver
Average Lifespan: 10-15 years
Key Advantages: Long-lasting, affordable
Key Drawbacks: Less aesthetic, contains mercury
Silver Amalgam
Appearance: Metallic Silver
Average Lifespan: 10-15 years
Key Advantages: Long-lading, affordable
Key Drawbacks: Less aesthetic, contains mercury
Composite Resin
Appearance: Tooth-coloured
Average Lifespan: 5-7 years
Key Advantages: Aesthetic, bonds well
Key Drawbacks: More costly, wears faster
Resin-Ionomer
Appearance: Tooth-coloured
Average Lifespan: 3-5 years
Key Advantages: Releases fluoride
Key Drawbacks: Less durable
Glass-Ionomer
Appearance: Tooth-coloured
Average Lifespan: 2-5 years
Key Advantages: Good for temporary fillings
Key Drawbacks: Not ideal for chewing surfaces
Gold Alloys
Appearance: Metallic Gold
Average Lifespan: 15-30 years
Key Advantages: Very durable, biocompatible
Key Drawbacks: Expensive, noticeable
Porcelain
Appearance: Tooth-coloured
Average Lifespan: 10-15 years
Key Advantages: Aesthetic, stain-resistant
Key Drawbacks: Brittle, more expensive
Cost of Tooth Fillings in Ontario
The cost of dental fillings in Toronto varies significantly depending on the material used, the location of the tooth, and your specific treatment needs.
Average Prices (Without Insurance)
- Silver Amalgam: $150–$375 per filling
- Composite Resin: $185–$425 per filling
Average Prices (With Insurance)
- Silver Amalgam: $75–$125 per filling
- Composite Resin: $100–$150 per filling
Factors that influence the price include:
- Number of surfaces affected
- Tooth location (molars are more complex and costlier)
- Dentist’s skill level and technology used
- Need for additional sedation or procedures
Cost Placement & Complexity
The position of the tooth within your mouth significantly affects the cost of a dental filling. While the material used is a major factor, placement complexity plays an equally important role in determining the final price of the procedure.
Posterior vs. Anterior Teeth
Molars and premolars (back teeth) are more difficult to access during treatment. Dentists require additional time, instruments, and sometimes magnification to properly isolate and restore these teeth.
In contrast, front teeth (incisors and canines) are more accessible and typically require less time and effort to treat, resulting in lower costs.
Tooth Surfaces Affected
A filling may be needed on one or multiple surfaces of a tooth. The more surfaces affected (e.g., biting surface, side wall, in between teeth), the more complex the restoration becomes.
Multi-surface fillings require more layering, sculpting, and curing steps, which increases both time and material costs.
Tooth Condition & Complications
If the tooth has deep decay, a cracked cusp, or previous restorations, it may require additional preparation work or reinforcing underlayers before the filling can be placed.
Compressed or crowded molars, common in patients with limited jaw space, also present additional challenges during filling placement, requiring more effort and precision from the dentist.
Bite Adjustment
For fillings placed on chewing surfaces, especially on molars, your dentist may need to adjust the bite to prevent high contacts that can lead to discomfort or further damage. This step adds to the time and technical complexity of the procedure.
Sedation Costs for Tooth Fillings
If you’re nervous about your procedure, sedation may be an option. Here’s what you can expect to pay if it’s not covered by your insurance:
- Laughing Gas (Nitrous Oxide): $35–$110
- Oral Sedation: $175–$500
- IV Sedation: $510–$750
- General Anesthesia (rarely used): $600–$800
'We offer multiple sedation options at Art of Dentistry to ensure every patient is comfortable, especially those with dental anxiety or complex procedures.'
Financing Options at Art of Dentistry
At Art of Dentistry, we recognize that out-of-pocket dental expenses can be a significant financial burden. That’s why we offer flexible financing solutions through our patient resource programs. Whether it’s interest-free payment plans or third-party dental financing providers, our team can help you find a solution that works for your budget. Learn more about financing.
When Is a Filing Not Enough?
If decay is extensive, a standard filling may not be sufficient. Your dentist may recommend:
- Root Canal Therapy: For infections that reach the pulp
- Crown: For teeth that need structural support
- Dental Implant or Bridge: When extraction is necessary
Your dentist will discuss the most appropriate treatment after a complete examination.
Porcelain vs Composite Fillings
There are a few pros and cons associated with both porcelain, composite, and amalgam types of fillings. Below, we’ll explain the differences and similarities between the types of tooth fillings.
Read also: Cost of Porcelain Veneers in Canada
Safety & Appearance
Generally, porcelain and composite tooth fillings are more aesthetically pleasing with a natural, tooth-like appearance. Additionally, they have the potential benefit of not containing mercury or other metals that may cause toxicity or allergic reactions.
Mercury toxicity levels from silver amalgam tooth fillings are a controversial topic, with no significant research to back it up.
To date, there is no certainty to show the risks posed by silver amalgam fillings that contain mercury. However, most patients do react to metal sensitivity, with some reporting a metallic taste after having amalgam fillings.
Fillings Durability
Previously, composite and porcelain were not as durable as silver amalgam fillings. Nonetheless, dental manufacturers have made an excellent effort in enhancing the strength of composite resin materials. This, however, has made the composite fillings a potential fit for all teeth, including molars.
Additionally, composite materials do not weaken the affected tooth and usually require less tooth preparation. This is a stark contrast to silver amalgam fillings, which require extra tooth preparation regularly. However, amalgam fillings have a long-term track history and often last much longer than composite and porcelain. Also, composite materials are more likely to leak and therefore decay more quickly than amalgam fillings.
Fillings Technique & Time
More than silver amalgam, the success rate of composite or porcelain is dependent on your dentist’s skills. Composite or porcelain replacement also requires the use of additional apparatus. Additionally, the procedure consumes up to 50% more time than amalgam fillings.
This, however, influences the high costs associated with composites and porcelain. Furthermore, most dental insurance companies do not provide coverage for the extra costs associated with composite and porcelain.
Required Dentist Skill
Notably, most dentists are experts in composite and porcelain fillings, although their level of skill varies. Choosing the perfect dentist is a vital factor in treating your tooth decay or similar damage. Confirm if your dentist has attained the level of post-graduate training which allows dentists to improve their skills in porcelain or composite restorations.
It is ideal to stay well-informed by understanding the differences between various restoration procedures. This way, you’ll appreciate every single detail about the process and what works best in your interest. Consult your dentist to ascertain the treatment cost, time, aesthetic value, and functionality of all available restorative dental treatments.
Recovery & Aftercare
Once the tooth filling procedure is completed, your dentist will discuss ways you can prevent further decay. This will help you avoid residual formations or decay in other teeth, under or around the fillings.
Flossing your teeth with dental floss or brushing your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste is ideal. It is also advisable to use an interdental cleaner once daily. Always keep appointments with your hygienist and dentist for teeth cleanings and routine check-ups.
Depending on your risk for cavities, your dentist may also propose the use of sealants. This is usually placed on your molars to prevent the build-up of any potential decay and plaque. Also, the use of fluoride mouthwashes as an additional preventive measure is ideal.
Furthermore, it’s vital to maintain a balanced diet and limit your intake of sugary foods and drinks. This is necessary because nutrition and diet affect our oral health a lot.
Final Thoughts
Tooth fillings are a common and effective way to restore damaged teeth and prevent further issues. While costs vary based on materials and individual factors, most patients can find a treatment and payment plan that fits their needs.
Don’t let cost concerns delay essential dental care. Speak with your dentist about treatment options, insurance benefits, and financing plans to make informed decisions about your oral health.
Dr. Sol Weiss DMD
Dr. Sol Weiss is a renowned cosmetic dentist based in Toronto, celebrated for his exceptional skills, specialized training, and extensive experience in delivering aesthetic dental solutions. With a distinguished career spanning various media appearances and educational roles, including a former Assistant Professor of Dentistry position at the University of Manitoba, Dr. Weiss has earned a reputation as a leading authority in cosmetic dentistry. His dedication to excellence, active involvement in professional organizations, and commitment to staying at the forefront of dental advancements make him a sought-after expert in North America. Leveraging advanced techniques, such as Invisalign and teeth whitening, Dr. Weiss transforms smiles, allowing his patients to achieve their dream smiles with precision and artistry.
This article was written by a third party and does not reflect the views and opinions of The Art of Dentistry. The content of the article is based on general information available online and should not be relied on as a substitute for medical advice or diagnosis. Always consult with your dentist or another qualified oral health professional for questions regarding your dental condition. Never disregard professional dental advice or delay seeking it based on information from this article.