If you have been told you need a dental filling, one of the first questions you may have is, “How much does a dental filling cost?”
In Australia, a dental filling typically costs around $150 to $450 per tooth, although the actual price can be higher for larger or more complex restorations. The cost depends on factors such as the size of the cavity, number of tooth surfaces affected, location of the tooth and type of filling material used.
For patients searching for dental filling cost in Melbourne, prices can vary between dental practices. The best way to find out exactly how much your filling will cost is to have the tooth examined by a dentist.
How Much Does a Dental Filling Cost in Australia?
As a general 2026 guide, dental fillings can cost approximately:
| Type of dental filling | Indicative cost |
|---|---|
| Small 1-surface filling | $150–$260 |
| 2-surface filling | $220–$360 |
| Larger 3+ surface filling | $290–$430+ |
| Complex or extensive restoration | $400+ |
These are indicative Australian price ranges rather than Parkmore Family Dental’s fees. Dental fees vary between practices and depend on the treatment required for each individual tooth.
A small cavity that only affects one surface may require a relatively simple filling, while extensive decay affecting several surfaces can require a larger and more time-consuming restoration.
How Much Does a Dental Filling Cost in Melbourne?
If you’re specifically searching for dental filling cost Melbourne, you can generally expect to pay around $150–$400+ for a standard filling, depending on the complexity of treatment.
Published Melbourne dental fee guides show that prices can vary according to the number of surfaces being restored and the type of filling used.
For example, a smaller one-surface filling may cost less than a larger restoration involving two or three surfaces.
The suburb where you visit a dentist is not the only factor affecting the price. The condition of your tooth and the treatment required are usually much more important.
What Determines the Cost of a Dental Filling?
There isn’t one fixed cost of dental fillings because every cavity is different.
Your final treatment fee may depend on several factors.
1. Size of the cavity
A small cavity usually requires less restorative material and treatment time than a large cavity.
If decay has spread through a significant portion of the tooth, the restoration may be more extensive and therefore cost more.
2. Number of surfaces affected
Dentists assess cavities according to the surfaces of the tooth that need to be restored.
A filling affecting one surface is generally simpler than one involving two, three or more surfaces.
This is one reason two patients can receive different prices even though both need a dental filling.
3. Location of the tooth
The position of the affected tooth can also influence treatment complexity.
Back teeth, particularly molars, are exposed to significant chewing forces and can sometimes require larger restorations.
Your dentist will assess the tooth and determine the most appropriate way to restore it.
4. Filling material
The material used for the restoration can also influence the overall price.
Common restorative materials include:
- Composite resin: A tooth-coloured material that can be matched to the appearance of your natural teeth.
- Glass ionomer: A material that may be suitable for particular teeth or situations.
- Amalgam: A traditional silver-coloured restorative material.
- Other restorative options: Larger or more severely damaged teeth may require a restoration such as an inlay, onlay or crown instead of a conventional filling.
Your dentist can explain which option is appropriate based on the condition and location of your tooth.
5. Complexity of the treatment
A straightforward cavity can often be restored during a routine appointment.
However, deep decay, an existing damaged filling or extensive loss of tooth structure can make treatment more complicated.
In some cases, a filling may not be sufficient and another treatment may be recommended.
Dental Filling Cost by Number of Surfaces
The number of surfaces affected is one of the most useful ways to understand why filling prices vary.
1-surface filling
A small cavity affecting one surface of the tooth is generally one of the simpler types of fillings.
Indicative cost: $150–$260
2-surface filling
When decay extends across two surfaces, the restoration is usually more extensive.
Indicative cost: $220–$360
3+ surface filling
A larger cavity involving three or more surfaces requires more extensive restoration.
Indicative cost: $290–$430+
These figures are general estimates only. Your dentist can provide a more accurate treatment plan after examining your tooth.
What Is Included in the Cost of a Dental Filling?
The total cost of your appointment may depend on the services required before and during the restoration.
Your treatment may include:
Dental examination
Your dentist examines the tooth and surrounding areas to determine the extent of decay or damage.
X-rays
An X-ray may be recommended when decay cannot be fully assessed by visual examination alone or when your dentist needs to check the condition of the tooth beneath the surface.
Removal of decay
The decayed portion of the tooth is removed before the filling is placed.
Placement of the filling
The selected restorative material is placed into the prepared area and shaped to restore the tooth.
Bite adjustment
Your dentist may check your bite after the filling has been placed and make adjustments if necessary.
The exact services included in your treatment depend on your individual dental needs.
Does Getting a Dental Filling Hurt?
Many people worry that having a filling will be painful.
When appropriate, your dentist can use local anaesthetic to numb the area before removing decay and placing the restoration.
You may notice pressure, vibration or other sensations during the procedure, but you should not have to tolerate significant pain.
If you feel anxious about dental treatment, tell your dentist before your appointment. Your dental team can discuss ways to help make your treatment more comfortable.
How Long Does a Dental Filling Take?
A dental filling can often be completed in approximately 30 to 60 minutes, although treatment time varies depending on the size, location and complexity of the cavity.
A small filling may be completed relatively quickly, while a larger restoration may require more time.
If you need fillings on several teeth, your dentist may recommend completing the treatment across multiple appointments.
How Long Does a Dental Filling Last?
Dental fillings do not last forever.
Their lifespan can vary depending on:
- The filling material
- Size of the restoration
- Location of the tooth
- Your bite
- Teeth grinding or clenching
- Oral hygiene
- Diet
- Regular dental care
A filling can eventually wear down, crack, leak or become damaged.
Regular dental check-ups allow your dentist to monitor existing fillings and identify problems before they become more serious.
White Fillings vs Silver Fillings: Does the Material Affect Cost?
Tooth-coloured composite fillings are commonly chosen because they can blend with the natural appearance of the tooth.
Traditional amalgam fillings are silver-coloured and have been used for many years.
The most suitable material depends on factors such as:
- Location of the tooth
- Size of the cavity
- Amount of remaining tooth structure
- Appearance
- Function
- Your dentist’s clinical recommendation
The cheapest option is not necessarily the best option for every tooth. Your dentist can explain the advantages, limitations and expected cost of the available materials.
Does Medicare Cover Dental Fillings?
For most adults, Medicare does not generally cover routine dental fillings provided through private dental practices.
Eligible children may be able to receive certain basic dental services through the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS), subject to eligibility and the requirements of the scheme.
If you have private health insurance, your policy may provide a rebate towards dental fillings. The amount you receive depends on your level of cover, annual limits, waiting periods and the applicable dental item.
It is best to check with your health fund before treatment if you want to understand your expected rebate and out-of-pocket cost.
Can a Cavity Heal Without a Filling?
Not every early change in a tooth requires a filling.
If tooth decay is identified at a very early stage, your dentist may recommend preventive measures depending on the condition of the tooth.
However, once a permanent cavity has formed and tooth structure has been lost, a filling or another form of restoration may be required.
This is one reason regular dental examinations are important. Early detection can allow problems to be treated before they become more extensive.
What Happens If You Don’t Treat a Cavity?
A cavity can continue to become larger if it is left untreated.
As decay progresses, it can move deeper into the tooth and eventually affect the dental pulp.
Depending on how advanced the decay becomes, treatment may progress from:
Filling → larger restoration → root canal treatment → crown or extraction
The appropriate treatment depends on the amount of healthy tooth structure remaining and whether the pulp has been affected.
Treating decay early may help avoid more extensive dental treatment.
Filling or Root Canal: Which One Do You Need?
A dental filling and root canal treatment are used for different dental problems.
A filling may be appropriate when decay has damaged part of the tooth but the pulp can still remain healthy.
A root canal may be required when the pulp inside the tooth becomes inflamed or infected.
Symptoms such as persistent tooth pain, severe sensitivity, swelling or significant discomfort may indicate that decay has progressed beyond what can be treated with a simple filling.
Only a dental examination can determine which treatment is appropriate.
How Can You Reduce the Risk of Needing a Filling?
Good oral hygiene and regular dental care can help reduce your risk of tooth decay.
You can help protect your teeth by:
- Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Cleaning between your teeth regularly
- Limiting frequent sugary foods and drinks
- Drinking water throughout the day
- Having regular dental examinations
- Following your dentist’s recommendations
- Treating early signs of tooth decay promptly
Regular check-ups can help identify cavities before they become larger and more difficult to treat.
When Should You See a Dentist About a Possible Cavity?
Make a dental appointment if you experience:
- Tooth sensitivity
- Toothache
- Pain when eating or drinking
- Pain when biting
- A visible hole or dark area on a tooth
- Food repeatedly getting stuck around one tooth
- A chipped or damaged tooth
- A broken or loose filling
It’s also important to remember that some cavities don’t cause noticeable symptoms, particularly during their early stages.
If you experience severe dental pain, facial swelling, fever or other signs of infection, seek prompt dental assessment.
Dental Fillings at Parkmore Family Dental
If you’re looking for a dental filling in Keysborough or the surrounding Melbourne area, Parkmore Family Dental can assess your tooth and discuss suitable restorative treatment options.
Our dental team can assess the extent of decay, explain your treatment options and provide information about the expected cost of your treatment.
Depending on the condition of your tooth, treatment may include a dental filling or, where more extensive damage is present, another restorative option such as a crown or root canal treatment.
Rather than relying on a general online price, a dental examination allows your dentist to assess your individual situation and provide personalised advice.
Book an appointment with Parkmore Family Dental to discuss your dental filling needs and find out which treatment option is right for you.
