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Going to the dentist to get a dental filling may seem daunting, but don't worry - you're not alone. Cavities are one of the most common oral health issues. In fact, nearly 90% of U.S. adults have had decay in their teeth at some point in their lives.1 Just because they're common, however, doesn't mean they're inexpensive to fix. Let's explore how dental fillings work, how much they may cost, and how Aflac dental insurance can help you cover the cost of a filling and other procedures.
Table of Contents
A dental filling is a material used to fill cavities and repair damaged or decayed parts of a tooth. To address the issue, a dentist will:3
Delaying a cavity filling can lead to further issues that require costly treatments, such as a root canal. If you act quickly, you can minimize discomfort and preserve more of your natural tooth.
Dental insurance often covers fillings, but the tooth filling cost without insurance can range from $100 to $1,150 or more if you need multiple fillings. Typically, there are several factors that impact the cost of fillings, but one of the most significant is the type of material used. We break down average costs by filling type below:2
| Filling type | Cost range |
|---|---|
| Composite | $100 - $400 |
| Amalgam | $100 - $350 |
| Gold | $250 - $650 |
| Porcelain | $500 - $2,800 |
In addition to the filling material, here are a few other key factors that can affect the cost of a dental filling:
Because larger cavities usually require more filling material, they may cost more to fill. This is another reason why it’s important to address cavities and tooth decay as soon as possible.
Some dentists may offer a per filling discount when you need to receive multiple fillings. However, those costs may still add up. Even if you get three composite fillings for $150 each rather than $300 for a single filling, the cost can be up to $450.
Generally, if you don’t have dental insurance, you’ll have to pay out of pocket for dental fillings. Fillings typically aren’t as costly as more significant procedures like dental crowns or dental implants, but the cost can add up as you get more of them. A dental insurance plan can help with the cost of a dental filling, which is one of the major aspects that makes dental insurance worthwhile.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Help cover yourself and your family with coverage from Aflac.
Get StartedThe total cost for a filling can depend on the factors above, plus any associated costs with the visit. For instance, in addition to the standard dental exam fee, you may have had to get X-rays taken before the procedure, or additional anesthesia to numb a particularly sensitive area. Without insurance, you’ll most likely be responsible for all the costs associated with a dental filling.
Dental fillings are usually considered necessary procedures, which means they’re covered by many dental insurance plans. Aflac’s dental insurance policies offer coverage for basic and preventative treatment.
The final cost of a cavity filling with insurance may depend on the visit and your plan. Additionally, your plan’s deductible and coinsurance can impact your out-of-pocket cost. Regardless of these factors, typically, you’ll pay less than you would without insurance.
Dental fillings can be a necessary procedure to help keep tooth decay from developing into a more serious issue. With dental insurance, fillings can come at a lower cost when you visit the dentist.
Don’t put off a necessary dental procedure because you’re concerned about the cost. Explore Aflac dental insurance to learn about the benefits our policies offer. Chat with an agent today to learn more about coverage options and get a policy quote.
Ready to get a dental insurance plan?
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Dental insurance covers a variety of treatments and procedures. Learn about how dental insurance works and what a dental insurance plan typically covers.
The cost of a root canal can vary based on several factors, such as the dental insurance plan you have and the tooth’s location. Discover how much it may cost.
Dental insurance covers a variety of treatments and procedures. Learn about how dental insurance works and what a dental insurance plan typically covers.
The cost of a root canal can vary based on several factors, such as the dental insurance plan you have and the tooth’s location. Discover how much it may cost.
1 Forbes –Dental Facts And Statistics In 2025. Published June 3, 2024. Accessed May 21, 2025. https://www.forbes.com/health/dental/dental-facts-statistics/.
2 GoodRx Health – How Much Does a Dental Filling Cost? February 9, 2024. Accessed March 11, 2025. https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/dental-care/cavity-filling-cost.
3 Cleveland Clinic – Dental Fillings. Updated May 13, 2024. Accessed March 11, 2025.https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/17002-dental-fillings.
Content within this article is provided for general informational purposes and is not provided as tax, legal, health, or financial advice for any person or for any specific situation. Employers, employees, and other individuals should contact their own advisers about their situations. For complete details, including availability and costs of Aflac insurance, please contact your local Aflac agent.
Aflac coverage is underwritten by American Family Life Assurance Company of Columbus. In New York, Aflac coverage is underwritten by American Family Life Assurance Company of New York.
Dental: In Delaware, Policies A82100R-A82400R. In Idaho, Policies A82100RID-A82400RID. In Oklahoma, Policies A82100ROK-A82400ROK. In Virginia, Policies A82100RVA-A82400RVA.
Dental, Vision, and Hearing coverage is underwritten by Tier One Insurance Company. Tier One Insurance Company is part of the Aflac family of insurers. In California, Tier One Insurance Company does business as Tier One Life Insurance Company (NAIC 92908).
Dental, Vision and Hearing: In Delaware, Policy T80000. In Idaho, Policy T80000ID. In Oklahoma, Policy T80000OK. Dental claims are administered by SKYGEN USA, LLC. Vision claims are administered by EyeMed Vision Care, LLC. Hearing claims are administered by Nations Hearing. NOTICE: The coverage offered is not a qualified health plan (QHP) under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) and is not required to satisfy essential health benefits mandates of the ACA. The coverage provides limited benefits.
Coverage may not be available in all states, including but not limited to NJ, NM, NY, VA or VT. Benefits/premium rates may vary based on state and plan levels. Optional riders may be available at an additional cost. Policies and riders may also contain a waiting period. Refer to the exact policy and rider forms for benefit details, definitions, limitations and exclusions.
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