When a dentist tells you that you have a cavity, it simply means that decay has damaged the natural structure of your tooth. In such a situation, a dental filling restores the tooth’s shape and function and protects it from bacteria. It’s important to choose the right material because it affects how long the filling lasts and how much money you spend. Let’s explore different types of cavity fillings and their costs.
The Main Types of Cavity Fillings
First, we will take a quick look at the pros and cons of filling types, and then explore various types of cavity fillings in detail.
| Filling Type | Aesthetics (Color) | Average Lifespan | Canadian Cost (Approx. CAD) | Key Pros | Key Cons |
| Amalgam (Silver) | Silver/Dark Grey (Highly Visible) | 10–15 years | $80–$300 | Very strong; most affordable | Highly visible; requires tooth removal; mercury concern |
| Composite (Resin) | Tooth-colored (Natural Match) | 5–7 years | $150–$500 | Good appearance; bonds well to the tooth | Less durable; requires replacement more often |
| Gold | Metallic Gold (Very Noticeable) | Up to 20 years | $450–$1000+ | Exceptional durability; resistant to wear | Very high cost; requires multiple dental visits |
| Ceramic (Porcelain) | Tooth-colored (Excellent Match) | 10–15 years | $450–$1000+ | Highly resistant to staining; excellent appearance | High cost; can be brittle or susceptible to chipping |
| Glass Ionomer | Tooth-colored (Fair Match) | Less than 5 years | $100–$250 | Releases fluoride; good for children’s teeth | Lowest durability; used only in low-stress areas |
Are you eager to learn more about a temporary tooth filling or worried you might need one? Here we will answer all your questions about temporary tooth fillings.
Amalgam (Silver) Fillings
Amalgam is the oldest material used for dental fillings, and it’s usually the cheapest choice they have. Amalgam is famous for being incredibly durable and strong. Because it can withstand high chewing pressure, it is the standard choice for back teeth, or molars. Amalgam fillings can easily last for 10 to 15 years, and often much longer.
Need Help Choosing the Right Type of Cavity Filling?
Here at Smile Avenue Dentistry, our experienced team helps you select the most durable and natural-looking option based on your needs and budget. Whether you need a simple filling or a full restoration, we’re here to protect your smile with expert, gentle care. Take the first step toward healthier teeth. Contact us today!
Composite (White Resin) Fillings
Composite fillings are often the most popular choice for patients today because they can blend in naturally with the color of your tooth. A significant advantage of composite material is that it bonds directly to the tooth structure. This can sometimes mean that the dentist does not need to remove a lot of the healthy tooth structure.
Read more: “How to Whiten Fillings on Front Teeth: Options, Expectations & Best Practices”
Gold Fillings
When dentists talk about strength and lasting power, gold fillings are often the champion among all the types of cavity fillings. While they are one of the most expensive options, gold has been a trusted material for dental restorations for a long time. It’s extremely resistant to breaking, chipping, and general wear and tear.
Ceramic or Porcelain Fillings
Ceramic or porcelain fillings are high-quality restorations that offer the best possible match to your natural tooth structure and color. They are often superior to standard composite resin in terms of appearance and are highly resistant to staining. Like gold, ceramic fillings are not placed directly into the mouth.
Glass Ionomer Fillings
Glass ionomer filling slowly releases fluoride over time to protect the tooth structure from new decay. Because this material is softer than composite or metal, it is mainly used for small areas of decay, such as near the gum line. Unfortunately, glass ionomer has the lowest durability of all types of cavity fillings and only lasts for less than five years.
Note: Sometimes the cavity has reached the nerve, and you might need a root canal. If the tooth can be saved, dentists will resort to tooth extraction.
Understand What Affects Your Dental Filling Costs
When you receive a quote from your dentist, you might be surprised to see that the price can vary significantly. Here are the things that can affect the costs of different types of cavity fillings.
- The specific filling material you choose.
- The size and complexity of the cavity.
- The tooth’s location in your mouth.
- The dentist’s location and overhead costs.
- Your dental insurance coverage and fee guides.
- Need for additional procedures (sedation).
Ever wondered if your tooth infection is getting worse? In this blog, you can read about the warning signs of your tooth infection spreading.
How Dentists Choose the Right Filling
Dentists choose the right filling based on the size and location of the cavity, the need for strength or aesthetics, and your budget or insurance coverage. Front teeth usually get colored materials, but larger or deeper cavities may need stronger options. Your preferences also matter, such as wanting a natural look or a long-lasting material. Age plays a role, too. Children often get glass ionomer fillings because they release fluoride and work well for developing teeth.
What to Expect During the Filling Procedure
If you have never had a filling or if it has been many years, it is normal to feel a bit anxious about the process. Here are the simple steps your dentist follows to fix your tooth.
- Step 1: Consultation and numbing the area.
- Step 2: Decay removal and thorough cleaning.
- Step 3: Preparing and isolating the tooth.
- Step 4: Inserting and sculpting the filling material.
- Step 5: Shaping, adjusting, and polishing.
Is your cavity getting worse, and you can’t decide between a root canal and a tooth extraction? We will cover tooth extraction vs root canal to help you choose.
Choose the Best Cavity Filling
When you want to decide among different types of cavity fillings, you should weigh beauty against durability. Also, don’t forget to consider your financial situation and how much each type of filling costs. Do you want to restore your teeth’s appearance and functionality? At Smile Avenue Dentistry, we offer expertly crafted dental crowns and bridges to help you regain your confident smile. Book an appointment at Dental Crowns & Bridges in North York.
FAQ
Does getting a dental filling hurt during or after the procedure?
No, the procedure itself should not hurt at all because your dentist will use a local anesthetic. You will only feel pressure or vibration as the dentist works, not actual pain.
How often will I need to replace my existing fillings?
Gold fillings can last the longest, often over 20 years, while durable amalgam lasts around 10 to 15 years. Composite fillings need replacement after 5 to 7 years because they wear down faster.
Are amalgam (silver) fillings safe to use due to the mercury content?
It is recommended to limit the use of amalgam in pregnant women or young children. If you have concerns, you should always talk to your dentist about alternative, mercury-free options.
Will my dental insurance cover the cost of all types of cavity fillings?
No, most dental plans in Canada will cover the cost of basic and durable materials. Insurance coverage for very high-cost materials like gold or ceramic is often much more limited or may not be covered at all.
Have you ever tried different types of cavity fillings or struggled to choose the right one? Share your experience in the comments; your insight can help other patients make confident decisions!
