How much does a Filling cost in Mississippi?
Underlined terms link to definitions in the Pearl Dental Glossary.
What is this procedure?
About this procedure
A cavity filling restores a tooth damaged by decay. After removing the decayed portion of the tooth, the dentist fills the space with a composite (tooth-colored), amalgam (silver), ceramic, or glass ionomer material. Composite is the most common modern choice. Cost depends primarily on the number of surfaces affected (one, two, three, or all surfaces) and the material chosen.
Price factors
What affects the cost?
- Number of surfaces: 1-surface ($150-250), 2-surface ($200-350), 3-surface ($250-400), 4+ surface ($300-500)
- Material: Amalgam (cheapest, $100-200), composite (mid, $200-350), ceramic/inlay (premium, $500-1,200)
- Tooth location: Front teeth typically use composite for aesthetics
- Tooth size: Molars cost more than smaller front teeth
- Insurance tier: Most plans cover composite at amalgam rate (you pay the difference)
By city
Cities we cover
Pearl has city-level pricing in these covered cities. Click a city to see local fee ranges, what affects the quote, and your estimated out-of-pocket.
Quote checker
What should your quote include?
Different offices bundle costs differently. Here's what a complete quote typically covers — and what's often left out.
Usually included in the quoted price
- Local anesthesia (numbing)
- Decay removal
- Filling material and placement
- Bite check and adjustment
- Polishing
Often billed separately — ask before you agree
- Diagnostic x-rays (billed separately, typically $25-65)
- Pulp protection if decay is deep (separate fee, $30-80)
- Future replacement of failing fillings (10-15 year lifespan typical)
Health stakes
What happens if you delay treatment?
Restorative procedures are usually recommended once a tooth has lost too much structure to remain stable on its own. Waiting rarely makes the situation simpler.
- Untreated cavities grow, requiring root canal or crown later
- Cracked fillings can hide secondary decay underneath
- Amalgam may not be ideal for patients sensitive to metals
- Composite shrinks slightly when cured, can cause sensitivity
Before you agree
Questions to ask your dentist
A good dentist won't mind these. Print this list or take a photo before your next visit.
- How many surfaces does the filling involve?
- What material do you recommend and why?
- How long should this filling last?
- Is the tooth structurally sound enough for a filling, or does it need a crown?
Coverage
Insurance & coverage notes
Insurance coverage varies by procedure type. For Cavity Filling, typical coverage tiers are: No Insurance $150 - $400, Basic Insurance $30 - $80, Major Insurance $15 - $50.
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between amalgam and composite fillings?
Amalgam fillings are silver-colored, very durable (15+ years), and cheapest. Composite is tooth-colored, mid-priced, and lasts 7-10 years on average. For visible teeth, composite is almost always chosen for aesthetics. For molars, either works, but composite is increasingly standard.
Does insurance cover composite fillings?
Most basic dental plans cover composite fillings on front teeth at the same rate as amalgam. For molars and premolars, many plans cover only at the amalgam rate - you pay the difference if you choose composite. Confirm with your insurer.
How long should a filling last?
Amalgam: 10-15 years average, often longer. Composite: 7-10 years average. Lifespan depends on filling location, your bite forces, dental hygiene, and material quality. Fillings need replacement when they crack, leak, or develop secondary decay around the edges.
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What does this cost in your city?
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