Tooth fillings are one of the most common dental treatments used to restore a tooth affected by decay, cracks, or wear. But when it comes to the cost of dental fillings, many people are unsure about what to expect. The price of a tooth filling depends on multiple factors, including the type of filling material used, the complexity of the dental procedure, and whether you have private health insurance. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down all the essential details about tooth filling costs in Australia, the various types of fillings available, and what to anticipate during the dental filling procedure.
How Much Does a Tooth Filling Cost in Australia?
The cost of a tooth filling in Australia varies depending on several factors, including the type of filling material, the location of the affected tooth, and the dental practice you visit. On average, the dental filling cost per filling can start at $150 and can go up. However, more complex dental filling procedures, such as those requiring multiple fillings or additional treatments, can push the price higher.
Factors Affecting Tooth Filling Costs
- Type of Filling Material: The chosen filling material plays a major role in the overall cost. Composite resin fillings and ceramic fillings tend to be more expensive than amalgam fillings.
- Size and Location of the Filling: Medium-sized fillings or those on molars often cost more than small fillings on front teeth.
- Dental Practice Fees: Private dental practices may have different pricing structures than public dental services.
- Health Insurance Coverage: If you hold private health insurance, your plan may help offset a portion of the cost for dental fillings.
- Additional Treatments: In some cases, fillings may not be enough to repair a tooth. Additional treatments like a root canal treatment or a dental crown can significantly increase the overall expense.
Different Types of Fillings and Their Costs
The cost of a tooth filling varies based on the type of filling material used. Below are the most common types of dental fillings in Australia, along with their starting costs.
1. Amalgam Fillings (Silver Fillings) – From $150
Amalgam fillings are a cost-effective and long-lasting option. They are made from a mixture of metals, including mercury, silver, tin, and copper. Although they are durable and long-lasting, their silver colour makes them a less preferred choice for visible teeth.
2. Composite Fillings (Tooth-Coloured Fillings) – From $200
Composite resin fillings are widely used because they blend seamlessly with natural teeth. They cost more than amalgam fillings but provide a more visually appealing option, particularly for front teeth.
3. Glass Ionomer Fillings – From $150
Glass ionomer fillings are commonly used for baby teeth and cavities near the gum line. They release fluoride to help prevent further decay but are less durable than composite or amalgam fillings.
4. Ceramic Fillings (Porcelain Fillings) – From $800
Ceramic fillings are made from high-quality porcelain and match the natural tooth colour. They are highly durable and stain-resistant but come at a higher cost due to the custom fabrication process in a dental laboratory.
5. Gold Fillings – From $600
Gold fillings are among the most durable and longest-lasting options, often lasting 20 years or more. However, they are among the most expensive options due to the high-quality materials used and the detailed craftsmanship required for their placement.
The choice of filling depends on factors like durability, appearance, and budget. If you are unsure about the best option for your needs, consulting with your dentist can help you make an informed decision.
What Happens During a Tooth-Filling Dental Procedure?
A tooth-filling procedure is a straightforward dental treatment designed to restore a tooth affected by decay or damage. It typically takes place in a single dental appointment. To ensure the tooth is properly repaired and protected from further decay, the procedure for a tooth filling typically involves the following steps:
1. Examination and Diagnosis
Before the filling procedure, your dentist will check the decayed tooth and may take X-rays to assess the severity of caries or damage. This helps determine if a filling is adequate or if further treatments, such as a root canal or dental crown, are necessary.
2. Numbing the Tooth
To guarantee comfort during the procedure, the dentist will utilise a local anaesthetic to numb the area around the affected tooth. This prevents any discomfort while the decayed portion of the tooth is being removed.
3. Removing the Decay
After numbing the tooth, the dentist will use a dental drill to remove the decayed portion. The goal is to eliminate all signs of decay while conserving as much of the natural tooth structure as possible.
4. Preparing the Cavity for the filling
After the decay is removed, the prepared cavity is cleaned and shaped to ensure a secure bond with the dental filling material. If the decay is deep and close to the tooth’s nerve, the dentist may place a protective liner to prevent irritation.
5. Placing the Filling
The dentist will fill the prepared cavity with the selected material, such as composite resin, amalgam, glass ionomer, porcelain, or gold. In the case of composite fillings, the material is applied in layers and cured with a specific light to harden it.
6. Shaping and Polishing the Filling
Once the filling is in place, the dentist will trim, shape, and polish it to match the natural contour of the surrounding teeth. This step ensures the filling does not interfere with your bite and that you feel comfortable when chewing.
7. Final Adjustments and Bite Check
The dentist will have you gently bite down to assess the filling’s alignment with your natural teeth. If needed, additional adjustments will be made to ensure a comfortable and precise fit.
Aftercare and Recovery
- Numbness from the anaesthetic will wear off within a few hours.
- Refrain from consuming hard or sticky foods for the first 24 hours, particularly if you have amalgam fillings.
- Mild sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure is normal but should subside within a few days.
- Maintaining good oral hygiene and scheduling regular dental check-ups can extend the lifespan of your filling and help prevent additional decay.
A properly placed dental filling can last for many years, restoring the function and appearance of the affected tooth while protecting it from further damage.
Why You Might Need a Dental Filling?
A dental filling is one of the most common and effective treatments for restoring a tooth affected by decay or damage. While some people may delay getting a filling, ignoring a cavity can lead to serious dental problems that need more extensive and expensive treatment. Here’s why you might need a dental filling and the risks of leaving a decayed or damaged tooth untreated.
A dental filling is intended to repair a tooth affected by decay, fractures, or wear. You might need a filling if:
1. You Have Tooth Decay
Tooth decay develops when bacteria in the mouth produce acids that weaken enamel, resulting in cavities. If untreated, the decay can progress deeper into the tooth, compromising its structure and potentially causing pain or infection.
2. Your Tooth Is Chipped or Cracked
A broken tooth due to injury, teeth grinding, or biting into hard foods may require a filling to restore its structure and prevent further damage.
3. You Have Sensitivity to Hot or Cold
Increased tooth sensitivity may indicate that enamel has worn away or that decay is affecting the inner layers of the tooth. A filling can help protect the exposed area and reduce discomfort.
4. Your Old Fillings Are Worn Out
Over time, fillings can deteriorate due to daily wear and tear. If an old filling becomes loose or falls out, bacteria can enter the exposed cavity, leading to further decay and the potential need for a more complex dental procedure.
What Happens If You Ignore a Tooth That Needs a Filling?
Delaying or ignoring a needed dental filling can result in more serious complications that may require additional treatments or even tooth extraction. Here are the risks of not getting a filling when you need one:
1. The Decay Will Spread
Tooth decay does not heal on its own. Without treatment, it continues to spread, affecting more of the tooth structure. What might have been a small cavity requiring a simple filling could turn into a large area of decay that needs a complex dental filling or even a dental crown.
2. Increased Pain and Sensitivity
As the decay progresses, it can reach the dentin layer (beneath the enamel), making the tooth more sensitive to temperature and pressure. Over time, the decay may reach the tooth’s pulp, leading to severe pain and infection.
3. You May Require Root Canal Treatment
If decay extends to the inner pulp of the tooth, it can cause an infection that may require a root canal treatment. This is a more invasive and costly dental procedure compared to a simple filling.
4. Risk of Tooth Abscess
If left untreated, a cavity can develop into an abscess, a painful infection at the tooth’s root. This may lead to swelling, fever, and intense pain, with the potential for the infection to spread to other areas of the body.
5. Potential Tooth Loss
If decay is left untreated for too long, the tooth may become too damaged to save. In these situations, tooth extraction may be necessary, often requiring a dental implant, bridge, or denture to restore function and appearance.
When Might a Filling Not Be Enough?
In some cases, a dental filling may not be sufficient to restore the tooth. If decay has reached the pulp, a filling may not be enough, and you may require root canal treatment. Additionally, if too much of the tooth structure is lost, a dental crown may be necessary instead of a filling. In severe cases of tooth decay or a broken tooth, a tooth extraction may be the only option.
How to Reduce Tooth Filling Costs with Preventive Care
Preventing cavities is the best way to avoid the cost of tooth fillings. Here’s how you can keep your teeth healthy and reduce dental expenses:
- Practise Good Oral Hygiene: Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss regularly, and use mouthwash to prevent tooth decay.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Routine dental check-ups help detect issues early, preventing the need for complex dental fillings.
- Limit Sugary & Acidic Foods: Reduce your intake of soft drinks, sweets, and acidic foods to protect your tooth enamel.
- Consider Dental Sealants: These protective coatings prevent cavities and are more affordable than fillings.
- Stay Hydrated with Fluoridated Water: Helps strengthen natural teeth and prevent further decay.
- Use Fluoride Treatments: Strengthens teeth and reduces the risk of cavities.
- Wear a Nightguard if You Grind Your Teeth: It protects against damage that may lead to fillings.
Making Tooth Fillings More Affordable: Exploring Your Financing Options
Tooth fillings are essential for maintaining good oral health, but the cost can sometimes be a concern. Fortunately, various financing options are available in Australia to help you manage dental expenses without financial strain. If you need a tooth filling but are worried about the upfront cost, here are some financing options to consider:
1. Supercare
Supercare allows you to access your superannuation to cover dental treatment costs, including tooth fillings. This can be especially helpful for individuals who require urgent dental care but may not have immediate funds available. Supercare provides guidance throughout the application process, ensuring a smooth experience.
2. National Dental Plan (NDP)
National Dental Plan, offers interest-free payment plans for dental treatments. With flexible repayment options, you can spread the cost of your fillings over time, making it easier to manage expenses without delaying essential dental care.
3. Humm
Humm provides a “buy now, pay later” solution specifically for healthcare, including dental treatments. It allows you to split your filling costs into smaller, interest-free payments, making dental care more accessible without affecting your budget.
4. TLC (Total Lifestyle Credit)
TLC offers personal payment plans for medical and dental procedures, including fillings. They provide flexible loan options with competitive interest rates, helping you spread the cost of your treatment over manageable monthly payments.
Choosing the Right Financing Option
Each of these options offers a way to make tooth fillings more affordable, whether through superannuation access, interest-free plans, or personal financing solutions. Before selecting a plan, consider factors such as repayment terms, eligibility requirements, and how quickly you need the treatment.
By considering these financing options, you can maintain your oral health while managing your finances effectively. If you’re unsure which plan is right for you, your dental practice may be able to guide you in choosing the best option for your needs.
Final Thoughts: Prioritising Oral Health While Managing Costs
Tooth filling costs in Australia vary based on factors such as the type of filling material, procedure complexity, and health insurance coverage. While fillings are crucial for maintaining oral health, practising good oral hygiene habits and attending regular dental check-ups help prevent cavities and minimise the need for fillings. If a filling is necessary, consulting a dentist can help you choose the most suitable material for your needs and budget.
Being informed about dental treatment options and costs allows you to make better choices for your oral health and finances. Prioritising preventive care and routine check-ups can help minimise long-term dental expenses while keeping your natural teeth healthy and strong.
To learn more or to book an appointment, contact Beyond Infinity Dental today at (02) 8806 3799.
References
- Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Dental fillings. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/17002-dental-fillings
- Healthline. (n.d.). Tooth extraction. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/tooth-extraction
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (n.d.). Dental amalgam fillings. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/dental-devices/dental-amalgam-fillings
- American Association of Endodontists. (n.d.). What is a root canal?. Retrieved from https://www.aae.org/patients/root-canal-treatment/what-is-a-root-canal/
- National Dental Plan. (n.d.). Interest-free payment plans for dental treatment. Retrieved from https://www.nationaldentalplan.com.au/
