TL;DR: A cavity filling in the US typically costs about $100 to $300 for a tooth-colored composite filling, with silver amalgam fillings often a bit less and larger multi-surface fillings running higher. Without insurance you usually pay the full amount, while most dental plans cover fillings as a basic service at roughly 70 to 80 percent. The American Dental Association (ADA) considers fillings one of the most common and routine procedures in dentistry, and treating a cavity early keeps costs low and prevents the need for a root canal or crown later.
Cost is the first thing most people ask about when they hear they have a cavity. Below is a clear breakdown of what fillings cost in 2026, the different materials available, and what to expect during the visit.
What goes into the cost of a filling?
The price of a filling depends mainly on the material used, the size and location of the cavity, and your insurance coverage. A small cavity on a single surface costs less than a large one that spans several surfaces or sits on a hard-to-reach back molar.
Why early treatment saves money
Catching a cavity while it is small means a quick, affordable filling. When Dr. Carlos Martin reviews your X-rays in our West New York office, we always aim to treat decay early, because a small filling now is far less expensive than the root canal or crown a neglected cavity can eventually require.
How much does a cavity filling cost?
A cavity filling in the US generally costs about $100 to $300 per tooth for a tooth-colored composite filling, while traditional silver amalgam fillings often run closer to $90 to $250. The final price depends on how many surfaces of the tooth are affected, since a larger, multi-surface filling takes more material and time than a small single-surface one.
In dense metro areas like northern New Jersey, prices tend to sit toward the higher end of these national ranges. When Dr. Carlos Martin recommends a filling, we give you an itemized estimate before any treatment so you know exactly what you are paying for. As a restorative dentist with over 15 years of experience, he also explains which material makes the most sense for that specific tooth.
How much is a filling without insurance?
Without insurance, you typically pay the full fee, which usually lands in that $100 to $300 range for a standard composite filling. At Veda Dental Aesthetics we offer financing options and will discuss payment plans up front, so cost never has to be the reason you delay treating a cavity that will only get more expensive over time.
What are the types of fillings?
The most common filling materials are tooth-colored composite resin, silver amalgam, gold, and ceramic, and each has its own strengths. Composite resin is the most popular choice today because it matches the color of your natural tooth and bonds directly to it.
The ADA recognizes all of these as safe and effective options, and the best choice depends on the location of the tooth, how much chewing force it handles, and your budget and appearance goals. For a visible front tooth, Dr. Carlos Martin almost always recommends composite for a natural look, while a heavily used back molar may do well with a durable material that withstands years of grinding. We walk through these trade-offs with you so the decision fits your priorities.
Does getting a filling hurt?
No, getting a filling should not hurt, because we numb the area with local anesthetic before removing the decay. Most patients feel only mild pressure or vibration during the procedure, and many small fillings are done so quickly that numbing is barely noticeable afterward. When Dr. Martin places your filling, we check your bite before you leave so the new surface feels smooth and comfortable when you chew.
Treat that cavity early at Veda Dental Aesthetics
Get a clear, itemized estimate in West New York
A small cavity caught early is a quick, affordable fix. At Veda Dental Aesthetics in West New York, Dr. Carlos Martin will examine the tooth, recommend the right filling material, and give you a transparent price before any work begins. Call (201) 223-4444 or book online today. Hablamos Espanol.