Cost of Dental Fillings
Updated July 2026 | Clinically reviewed by Dr. Ella Choi
How much does a dental filling cost?
In BC, a dental filling typically costs between $171 and $613, based on the BC Dental Association's 2026 Suggested Fee Guide. The final price depends on the tooth being treated, the number of surfaces being filled, and the filling material used. Here's what affects the price.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Dental Fillings
The cost of dental fillings can vary significantly due to several factors, including:
Number of Surfaces
This is the biggest cost driver, each tooth has multiple surfaces, and the BC Dental Association fee guide prices fillings by how many surfaces need repair. A small one-surface filling costs the least, and repairing three or more surfaces costs quite a bit more.
Type of Filling Material
White (composite) and silver (amalgam) fillings are the most common options. White fillings usually cost more because they're matched to your natural tooth colour and take more time to place properly. At Encore Dental, we exclusively offer white fillings because they provide a more natural appearance and are mercury-free.
Location of the Tooth
Where the tooth sits matters too. Molars are harder to reach and have big chewing surfaces, so they often need larger fillings than front teeth.
Dental Insurance
If you have dental insurance, your out-of-pocket cost will depend on your individual plan. Many plans cover a percentage of the total cost, but coverage levels, annual maximums, deductibles, and material limitations can vary.
We can help you navigate the insurance process and provide the information your insurer requires. However, patients are ultimately responsible for understanding their coverage, so we recommend reviewing your policy before treatment.
Dental Filling Cost Breakdown
At Encore Dental Clinic in Port Coquitlam, we follow the BC Dental Association's suggested fee guide 2026 to ensure fair and transparent pricing. Here are the estimated dental filling costs:
White Fillings: White fillings, also known as composite fillings, are matched to your natural tooth colour so they blend in. For adult teeth, white fillings range from $175 to $613 and for primary (children's) teeth white fillings range from $171 to $451.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Filling Costs
Does MSP cover dental fillings in BC?No. MSP doesn't cover routine dental care for most adults, including fillings. There are exceptions. Children in low-income families may qualify for coverage through the BC Healthy Kids Program. If you have dental insurance through work, fillings usually fall under basic coverage, which most plans pay at 50–100%.
How long does a dental filling last?Most fillings last 2 to 5 years. A filling can last longer when the patient takes good care of it by protecting it with a nightguard and good oral hygiene. Most fillings fail because of fracture or recurrent cavities without good diet or oral hygiene.
What happens if I don't get a cavity filled?The cavity gets bigger. A small one-surface filling can turn into a large multi-surface filling, and if the decay reaches the nerve, you're looking at a root canal and crown instead. The earlier you treat a cavity, the less you pay.
Get an Exact Quote for Your Filling
The ranges above give you a starting point, but the only way to know your exact cost is with an exam. At Encore Dental Clinic, we'll assess the tooth, walk you through your material options, and give you a written estimate, including what your insurance covers. All before any treatment begins.
If you think you might need a filling, don't wait. Small cavities are less expensive and easier to fix than big ones. Request an appointment at our Port Coquitlam clinic.
