Tooth Filling Cost

When it comes to the repair of a tooth, there are a few different procedures a dentist may recommend. These procedures may include the placement of a dental crown, veneer or filling. Fillings are an extremely common procedure, as they provide a great level of support, and can last a long time. If you have a decayed or otherwise damaged tooth, your dentist may suggest a dental filling to repair the tooth.

The Filling Procedure

The actual procedure involved in placing a filling is relatively simple. First, a dentist will look at their patient’s teeth for signs of decay and damage. This often includes x-rays. Once they have determined that the tooth is damaged, they will consider the right repair options. If they have decided on the placement of a filling, they will begin the process of placing the filling.

First, a dentist will provide a local anesthetic to help the patient to avoid any pain. They will then remove any tooth decay from the area. From there, they will etch and prepare the tooth for the filling. The resin is then placed (if resin is being used for the filling).

Sometimes materials need to be fabricated for the filling. If this is the case, the dentist will place a temporary filling. Once the final restoration has been fabricated, the dentist will remove the temporary filling, and replace it with the permanent filling.

Cost of Fillings (and Cost Factors)

The actual cost of fillings will often vary depending on a variety of factors. Some of these factors include:

• The type of material being used.
• The number of surfaces of the tooth that the decay has destroyed
• Any additional procedures required due to the depth of the decay or proximity to nerve tissue
• The location of the tooth.
• Still, the treatment cost is often between $75 to 400 per tooth.

Insurance Coverage

Many insurance companies at least partially cover the cost of a tooth filling. Whether or not the filling is covered depends on a patient’s particular insurance plan, though. If you have dental insurance and would like to know whether or not a filling is covered, consider contacting your insurance company. You can also contact the dental practice that you will be visiting for the procedure.

Avoiding Fillings

While some forms of damage can’t be avoided (like accidental damage), other forms of damage can be. In order to avoid having a filling placed, it is important to take good care of your overall oral health. This includes brushing, flossing and rinsing twice a day. It also means visiting your dentist every three to six months for the proper checkups and cleanings.

In order to further ensure that you don’t get any cavities, you’ll want to cut back on snacks and sugars—which includes sugary beverages. By working with a doctor who looks at your individual cavity risk and decay profile, you will dramatically decrease the chances of tooth decay.

Contact Your Dentist

If you are experiencing any pain or discomfort in a tooth, contact your dentist and set an appointment so they can look at the tooth. If they discover the issue is decay, you can discuss repair options—including the placement of a filling.

Contact Baer Dental Designs in Lone Tree, CO to schedule a checkup and/or to assess your  dental filling needs.

More Information on Dental / Tooth Fillings : Different Types of Dental Fillings