How much does tooth filling cost in Canada? This is one of the most asked questions when someone spots a dark area or feels pain while eating. A tooth filling repairs cavities or small damage to stop decay and save the natural tooth. Prices in Canada usually range from $150 to $425 per tooth filling depending on material size and tooth location. This guide covers average tooth filling cost different types what changes the price and how the procedure works.
What Is a Tooth Filling and Why Do You Need One?

A tooth filling closes holes or cracks caused by decay or minor injury. It stops bacteria from going deeper and protects the tooth. Common signs you need a tooth filling include sharp pain with hot cold or sweet food visible brown or black spots rough edges when you run your tongue over the tooth or discomfort while chewing. Early treatment prevents root canal or tooth loss later. Modern tooth fillings look natural and last many years.
How Do You Know If You Have a Cavity?
How do you know if you have a cavity? Look for dark brown or black spots on the tooth surface. Feel rough or sticky areas. Pain or sensitivity to hot cold sweet or air is a strong sign. Food getting stuck in one spot or bad breath can also point to decay. Cavities start small with white chalky patches then turn brown and form holes. Only a dentist can confirm with X-rays and exam.
Main Cause of Cavity
The main cause of cavity is plaque bacteria feeding on sugar and making acid. This acid softens enamel over time. Poor brushing flossing and high sugar intake speed it up. Sticky foods like candy or chips stay on teeth longer. Dry mouth from meds or habits helps acid work faster. Not visiting the dentist lets small decay grow into big cavities.
Types of Tooth Fillings and Their Costs

Different materials affect tooth filling cost and looks:
- Composite (tooth coloured) fillings Blend with natural teeth for front and back. Average tooth cavity filling cost: $185–$425. Last 5–10 years. Most popular for visible areas.
- Amalgam (silver) fillings Very strong for back teeth. Price for teeth filling: $150–$375. Last 10–15 years. Cheaper but silver color shows.
- Gold or ceramic fillings Gold lasts 15–30 years ceramic looks natural and resists stains. Both cost dental cavities fillings $250–$450 or more due to material and lab work.
Composite is best for looks amalgam for strength and low filling cost. Your dentist picks based on tooth location and your needs.
Average Tooth Filling Cost in Canada
Tooth cavity filling cost ranges from $150 to $425 per tooth. Small front fillings cost less. Larger back or multi-surface fillings cost more. Price for teeth filling includes numbing cleaning shaping and polishing. Without insurance you pay full amount. With insurance most plans cover 50 to 80% for basic fillings. We give exact price after exam so you know before treatment.
How Long Does It Take to Fill a Cavity?
How long does it take to fill in a cavity? Most fillings finish in one visit of 30 to 60 minutes. We numb the tooth remove decay clean the area and place the filling. Material hardens fast with light. You leave the same day and can eat once numb fades. Larger cavities may need two visits if a crown is added later.
Factors That Affect Tooth Filling Cost

Severa factors are responsible forl cost dental filling:
- Size and number of surfaces – bigger fillings need more material and time.
- Tooth location – back molars cost more because they are harder to reach.
- Material – composite costs more than amalgam but looks better.
- Dentist experience – skilled dentists with modern tools may charge a little more.
- Extra steps – X-rays or sedation add small fees.
We always show the full price after check so no surprises.
Is a Filling Painful?
Getting a filling is painless with numbing. You feel nothing during treatment. Mild soreness can happen after numb wears off but it goes away in a day or two. Desensitizing toothpaste helps if you feel sensitivity later.
When Should You Get a Filling?
Get a filling as soon as you see dark spots feel pain or sensitivity. Waiting lets decay reach the nerve and costs more. Regular check-ups catch cavities early when they are small and cheap.
Conclusion
Tooth filling cost in Canada is affordable – most range from $150 to $425. Early treatment saves money and keeps your natural teeth. Composite looks natural amalgam is strong and budget-friendly. How long does it take to fill a cavity? Usually one quick visit. Book a check-up today to see if you need a filling and get a clear price. Small fixes now prevent big problems later.
FAQs
How much does a tooth filling cost without insurance in Canada?
Tooth filling cost without insurance ranges from $150 to $425 per filling depending on material and size. Small front-tooth fillings are cheaper around $150–$250 while larger back-tooth or multi-surface fillings cost more up to $425. The price includes numbing cleaning the filling material and polishing so you know what you’re paying for.
Are white fillings more expensive than silver ones?
Yes white (composite) fillings usually cost more than silver (amalgam) ones because they blend naturally with your teeth. Composite prices are around $185–$425 while amalgam is lower at $150–$375. Many people choose composite for front teeth because they look invisible and natural.
How long do tooth refilling last before replacement?
Amalgam (silver) fillings last 10–15 years or longer with good care because they are very strong. Composite (white) fillings last 5–10 years gold or ceramic can last 10–20 years or more. Regular brushing flossing and check-ups help them last as long as possible.
Is replacing an old filling costly?
Replacing an old filling costs similar to a new one – usually $150 to $425 depending on size material and tooth location. If the cavity is bigger or the tooth needs extra work like a crown the price can go up slightly. Your dentist will give the exact cost after checking.
Can cavities heal without a filling?
No once a cavity forms a hole in the enamel it cannot heal on its own and needs a filling to stop it. Early white chalky spots can sometimes reverse with fluoride better brushing and less sugar. Waiting too long makes the cavity deeper and more expensive to fix.
Is getting a filling painful?
No getting a filling is painless because we numb the area completely with local anesthetic. You feel nothing during the procedure. Mild soreness or sensitivity can happen for a day or two after the numb wears off but it goes away fast. Desensitizing toothpaste helps if needed.
Can I choose the type of filling material?
Yes you can choose the type of filling material after your dentist explains the options. They will discuss cost appearance durability and which is best for your tooth location. Composite looks natural amalgam is strong and cheap gold and ceramic last longest but cost more. We help you pick what fits your needs and budget.
How long does it take to fill in a cavity?
Most cavity fillings take 30 to 60 minutes in one visit. We numb the tooth first clean out the decay shape the hole and put in the filling. It hardens fast with a light. You leave the same day and can eat once the numb feeling goes away. Bigger or deeper cavities might need a second visit if a crown is added later.
How much is a cavity filling?
A cavity filling usually costs between $150 and $425 in Canada. Small fillings on front teeth cost less (around $150–$250). Larger fillings on back teeth or ones that cover multiple sides cost more (up to $425). The price includes numbing cleaning the filling material and polishing. White (composite) fillings often cost a bit more than silver (amalgam) but look natural. We give you the exact price after we check your tooth – no surprises. Insurance often covers part of it too.
Book your appointment today at Clinique Dentaire Cartier and get your cavity fixed fast and affordably!
