A filling quote depends on the tooth, the number of surfaces being repaired, the material, and your local market. Use the range below as a starting point—not a diagnosis or a guaranteed price.
Reviewed October 10, 2026 · About 6 minutesFor a tooth-colored composite filling, DentAlert uses $150–$350 per surface as a broad U.S. cash-price starting range. A one-surface filling is usually simpler than a filling that covers two or three surfaces. Your actual quote can be lower or higher, and an exam, X-rays, anesthesia, or other treatment may be listed separately.
Dentists describe which sides of the tooth are restored. A larger filling that reaches more surfaces generally requires more time and material. Ask the office for the tooth number, surfaces, material, and CDT procedure code so you can understand exactly what the quote covers.
Common direct filling materials include tooth-colored composite, amalgam, glass ionomer, and resin-modified glass ionomer. The ADA explains that the size and location of the cavity, appearance, durability, insurance coverage, and out-of-pocket cost can all affect the choice. An inlay, onlay, or crown is a different restoration and should not be compared with a simple filling price.
Your plan may use a negotiated fee and then apply a deductible, coinsurance, frequency limits, exclusions, or an annual maximum. The amount on a pre-treatment estimate is not always a guarantee. Ask the dental office for the full fee and estimated patient portion, then confirm the code and coverage with your plan.
Get the estimate in writing before non-emergency treatment. Compare the same tooth, surfaces, material, and included services—not only the total. FAIR Health offers a ZIP-code dental cost lookup based on claims data. If several large fillings are recommended and the explanation is unclear, you can ask to see the findings or seek a second opinion. Do not delay urgent care for swelling, fever, severe pain, or trouble breathing while researching prices.