How Much Does a Dental Filling Cost in San Francisco? A 2025 Pricing and Procedure Guide

Dental decay is one of the most common oral health issues among adults in America. Nearly 90% of adults have experienced tooth decay, and the average person has between five and eight dental fillings. When considering treatment, many people wonder about the cost of dental fillings in San Francisco, especially since prices can vary depending on the type of material used and other factors.

In this guide, we’ll explain the current cost of dental fillings in San Francisco, explain what factors affect the final price, and walk you through the entire procedure.  

What Are Dental Fillings?

Dental fillings are restorative materials used to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay, cracks, or minor fractures. When a cavity forms, your dentist removes the decayed portion of the tooth and “fills” the space with a durable material that restores the tooth’s original shape and function.

Fillings not only stop decay from spreading but also help strengthen the tooth and prevent further damage. Modern fillings are designed to blend in with your natural teeth, and depending on the material used, they can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years or more.

Types of Dental Fillings

1. Composite Resin Fillings

• Tooth-colored
• Ideal for front or visible teeth
• Aesthetic and conservative
• Less durable than metal options
• Moderately priced

2. Amalgam Fillings

• Silver-colored
• Best for molars and back teeth
• Strong and long-lasting
• Noticeable appearance
• Most affordable option

3. Ceramic (Porcelain) Fillings

• Tooth-colored
• Natural-looking and stain-resistant
• Suitable for visible areas
• Durable but costly
• Often used for inlays/onlays

4. Gold Fillings

• Metallic gold appearance
• Highly durable (15+ years)
• Not aesthetic
• Premium pricing
• Rarely used today

5. Glass Ionomer Fillings

• Tooth-colored (less natural-looking)
• Releases fluoride
• Best for non-chewing surfaces and children
• Less durable
• Budget-friendly in some cases

Good Candidates for Dental Fillings

Dental fillings are one of the most common and effective treatments for repairing minor tooth damage. You may be a good candidate for a dental filling if you:

• Have cavities or tooth decay
• Have chipped, cracked, or worn teeth
• Experiencing tooth sensitivity
• Need to replace an old or damaged filling
• Want to restore the natural shape of a damaged tooth

A dentist will evaluate the extent of the damage and the overall health of your tooth to determine if a filling is the right solution or if a more advanced procedure like a crown or root canal is necessary.

How Much Do Dental Fillings Cost in San Francisco?

The cost of dental fillings can vary quite a bit depending on your individual treatment needs and where you're located. The national average cost of a dental filling in the United States can vary, depending upon the material of the filling, as well as insurance coverage. However, in San Francisco, where healthcare costs are generally higher than the national average, you can expect to pay more than you would in a rural area. Several key factors influence the final cost:  

• Number of Teeth Treated: The more teeth that need fillings, the higher your total cost.
• Filling Material Used: Silver amalgam is typically the most affordable option. Composite resin falls in the middle, while gold and porcelain ceramic are among the most expensive.
• Cavity Size: Larger cavities require more material and time, increasing the overall cost.
• Procedure Complexity: Deep or difficult-to-access cavities may take longer to treat and may require specialized tools or techniques.
• Location of the Dental Office: Urban areas like San Francisco often come with higher dental fees due to increa sed overhead and demand.

Understanding these factors can help you ask the right questions before your appointment and plan for any out-of-pocket expenses, especially if you're comparing treatment options or managing care without insurance.

How Does a Tooth Filling Work?

A tooth filling is a straightforward dental procedure designed to restore a tooth damaged by decay, wear, or minor fractures. Here's a step-by-step overview of how the process typically works:

1. Diagnosis and Examination

Your dentist will first examine your teeth using visual inspection, dental instruments, and often X-rays to determine the extent of the decay or damage.

2. Numbing the Area

A local anesthetic is applied to numb the area around the affected tooth so you don't feel any pain during the procedure.

3. Removing the Decay

The decayed or damaged portion of the tooth is carefully removed using a dental drill or laser. This step ensures the area is clean and ready for the filling.

4. Tooth Preparation

Once the decay is removed, the dentist cleans and shapes the cavity to prepare it for the filling material. If the decay is deep, a liner may be placed to protect the tooth's nerve.

5. Placing the Filling

The chosen filling material, such as composite resin, amalgam, or ceramic, is placed in layers. Each layer may be hardened using a special light (especially for composite fillings).

6. Shaping and Polishing

After the filling is placed, your dentist will shape it to fit your bite and polish it for a smooth, natural finish. This ensures the filled tooth functions comfortably and blends in with the rest of your teeth.

The entire process usually takes about 30–60 minutes per tooth, and you can resume normal activities shortly after. Some mild sensitivity is normal for a few days.

How Long Do Dental Fillings Last?

The lifespan of a dental filling depends on several factors, including the type of material used, your oral hygiene habits, and the location of the filling. On average, here’s how long different types of fillings typically last:

• Amalgam (Silver) Fillings: 10–15 years
• Composite (Tooth-Colored) Fillings: 5–10 years
• Ceramic (Porcelain) Fillings: 10–15 years or more
• Gold Fillings: 15–20 years or longer
• Glass Ionomer Fillings: 3–7 years

To extend the life of your fillings, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene, avoid biting down on hard objects, and visit your dentist regularly for checkups. Over time, fillings can wear down, crack, or pull away from the tooth, creating gaps that may allow bacteria to enter. When this happens, replacement is necessary to prevent further decay or damage.