How much does a dental filling cost?

Composite (tooth-colored) fillings cost $200–$500 per tooth depending on surfaces, and amalgam (silver) fillings $100–$300. Large multi-surface composites can reach $600. Most dental plans cover fillings at 70–80% after deductible.

What happens when I get a filling?

Under local anesthesia, the dentist removes decay with a drill or laser, etches and bonds the cavity, places composite resin in layers, and cures each layer with a UV light. The process takes 20–45 minutes per tooth. The bite is checked and adjusted before discharge.

The procedure is painless with local anesthesia. Mild sensitivity to cold and pressure for 1–2 weeks afterward is common. Lingering pain beyond 2 weeks can mean a high bite or a need for further treatment such as a root canal.

How long do dental fillings last?

Composite fillings typically last 7–10 years, amalgam 10–15 years. Large fillings covering more than half the tooth surface are at higher risk of fracture and may need to be replaced with an onlay or crown. Recurrent decay at the margin is the leading failure cause.

Can a cavity heal without a filling?

True cavities (cavitated lesions) cannot heal — once enamel is broken, restoration is required. Very early enamel demineralization (white spot lesions) can sometimes be remineralized with fluoride varnish, prescription toothpaste, and diet changes over 3–6 months. Regular checkups catch lesions early.

Service Guide

Dental Fillings

This dental service is offered by qualified dental professionals to help maintain and improve your oral health. Consult with a dental specialist to determine if this treatment is right for you.

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Service overview

About Dental Fillings

This dental service is offered by qualified dental professionals to help maintain and improve your oral health. Consult with a dental specialist to determine if this treatment is right for you.

What is Dental Fillings?

This dental service is offered by qualified dental professionals to help maintain and improve your oral health. Consult with a dental specialist to determine if this treatment is right for you.

Who Needs It?

This service may be recommended based on your individual dental health needs. Your dentist will evaluate your condition and advise whether this treatment would benefit you.

What to Expect

Your dentist will perform a thorough examination and discuss the treatment plan with you. The procedure will be carried out using modern techniques and equipment to ensure the best possible outcome.

Quick Facts

Average Duration

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Pain Level

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Recovery Time

Varies

Recommended Frequency

As recommended

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Elmtree Family Dental

1320, Elmtree Road · Columbia, South Carolina

71.2Smyleee Rating(756)

Elmtree Family Dental in Columbia, South Carolina treats routine and restorative needs -- cleanings, fillings, crowns, bridges, root canals, and extractions -- plus whitening an...

Dental Fillings

About Dental Fillings

What is Dental Fillings?

Who Needs It?

What to Expect

What is Dental Fillings?

Who Needs It?

What to Expect

Quick Facts

Find Clinics Offering Dental Fillings

Elmtree Family Dental

Family Dental Health of Murray Landing

West Columbia Family Dentistry

Columbia Family Dental Care: Sulekha Agrawal, DMD

Precision Dentistry

Family Dental Health of Forest Acres

Family Dental Health of Spring Valley

Family Dental Health of Spring Valley North

Family Dental Health of Sunset

Family Dental Health of Sandhills

Columbia Family Dentist

Family Dental Health of Woodhill

Cedar Smiles Dental

Smith Family Dentistry

Shandon Family Dentistry

Maryland Family Dentistry - Columbia

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