Cavities are one of the most common dental problems in Australia. But the cost of a filling is rarely a fixed number. It depends on the material used, the size of the cavity, and where you go for treatment.
If you have been told you need a filling, you are probably wondering what to budget for. This guide breaks down the 2026 pricing landscape for composite teeth filling treatment. We will look at what affects the cost, whether private health insurance helps, and what actually happens in the chair. Prices vary by clinic and complexity, so treat this as a general guide rather than a quote.
What Is a Tooth Filling and When Do You Need One?
A filling repairs a tooth after decay has been removed. The dentist clears out the damaged part of the tooth, then rebuilds the missing structure with a filling material. This stops the decay from spreading and restores the natural tooth structure so you can bite and chew comfortably again.
You may need a filling if you notice:
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet food
- A visible dark spot or hole in the tooth
- Toothache that comes and goes
- A rough edge you can feel with your tongue
- An old filling that has cracked or fallen out
Early detection makes a real difference. Small cavities are far easier, and usually cheaper, to treat than those left to grow.
Types of Filling Materials
Not all fillings are the same. The material your dentist recommends will depend on the location of the tooth, your bite, and your budget.
Composite Teeth Filling
A composite tooth filling is made from a tooth-coloured resin. It is the most requested option in Melbourne today, mostly because it blends in with your natural teeth. It also bonds directly to the tooth, which means less of the healthy tooth structure needs to be removed compared to older methods.
Amalgam (Silver) Fillings
Amalgam fillings have been used for generations. They are strong and hold up well under pressure, which is why some dentists still use them for back teeth. The trade-off is appearance. Silver fillings are visible whenever you open your mouth, so many Melbourne patients now prefer composite for front teeth and even for back teeth.
Glass Ionomer and Other Options
Glass ionomer is another filling material, often used for smaller fillings, in baby teeth, or as a temporary measure. It releases fluoride, which can offer some added protection, though it is generally less durable than composite or amalgam.
Composite has become the default choice for most adults simply because it looks natural and performs well for everyday use.
2026 Cost Guide: What Influences the Price
There is no single dental filling cost that applies to everyone. Several factors affect the cost of a tooth filling, and understanding them helps you make sense of your quote at a Melbourne dental clinic.
- Size and location of the cavity. A small filling on a front tooth is generally simpler than a large filling on a back molar.
- Number of tooth surfaces involved. A filling that only covers one surface costs less than one that wraps around several sides of the tooth.
- Material chosen. Composite and amalgam differ in cost, and glass ionomer sits in its own bracket again.
- Simple restoration versus replacement. Replacing an old filling can take longer than placing a first-time filling, since the old material has to be removed first.
Because every case is different, the only way to get an accurate figure is a proper examination. Ask your Greensborough dental clinic for a written treatment plan before you go ahead.
Filling Type Comparison
| Filling Type | General Price Range | Durability | Aesthetics |
| Composite (resin) | Varies by clinic and cavity size | Good, ten or more years with care | Excellent, tooth-coloured |
| Amalgam (silver) | Varies by clinic and cavity size | Very strong, long-lasting | Noticeable, silver colour |
| Glass ionomer | Varies by clinic and cavity size | Moderate | Fair |
Note: prices vary by clinic and complexity. Ask your dentist for a personalised quote.
Does Private Health Insurance Cover Fillings?
Most extras policies in Australia include some cover for general or restorative dental work, which typically includes fillings. The amount you can claim back depends on your level of cover, your annual limits, and any waiting periods on your policy.
A few points worth knowing:
- General dental usually has a lower annual limit than major dental
- Waiting periods often apply if you have just taken out a policy
- Your provider can tell you exactly how much you can claim before you book
If you have children, it is also worth checking eligibility for the Child Dental Benefits Schedule, a government program that helps eligible families with some dental costs. Eligibility rules apply, so check with Services Australia or ask your Greensborough dental clinic to confirm before assuming cover.
Individuals directly fund a large share of total dental spending in Australia, which makes understanding your insurance cover genuinely useful before booking treatment.
What to Expect During a Composite Filling Appointment
A dental filling procedure is usually quick and low-stress. Here is what typically happens:
- Local anaesthetic is applied so the area is numb
- The dentist removes the decayed part of the tooth
- The composite material is layered into the space and shaped
- A curing light hardens each layer
- The dentist checks your bite so everything feels even
Most simple fillings take well under an hour. It is normal to feel some sensitivity to hot or cold for a day or two afterwards. This usually settles on its own. If pain continues or gets worse, contact your dentist.
How to Avoid Needing Fillings in the First Place
Prevention is always cheaper and easier than treatment. A few simple habits go a long way:
- Book regular dental check-ups and cleans, even if nothing feels wrong
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily
- Limit sugary foods and drinks, especially between meals
- Treat small cavities early, before they reach the tooth root
In 2023–24, around 1 in 2 Australians aged 15 years and over saw a dental professional in the last 12 months, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. Regular visits are one of the simplest ways to catch problems while they are still small and inexpensive to fix.
Dental disease is also more common than many people realise. In 2024, oral disorders made up 2.3% of the total health burden and 4.2% of all non-fatal burden, with dental caries among the top 20 causes of non-fatal burden for both boys and girls [Source: AIHW]. That is a strong argument for treating small cavities before they turn into something bigger, whether through a simple filling or, in more advanced cases, root canal treatment.
Have a cavity or an old filling that needs replacing? Book a consultation at G Dental for an accurate, personalised quote on composite teeth filling treatment tailored to your needs. Our Greensborough team will walk you through your options and help you choose the right filling material for your smile.
FAQs
How long does a composite filling last
Most composite fillings last around ten years with good oral hygiene, though this varies by location and bite pressure.
Is a composite filling painful?
No. Local anaesthetic numbs the area, so the procedure itself is not painful. Mild sensitivity afterwards is normal and temporary.
Can I claim fillings on private health insurance?
Usually, yes, under general or restorative dental extras, though your rebate depends on your policy and provider.
How much does it cost to replace an old filling
It depends on the size of the old filling and whether decay has spread underneath it. Your dentist can confirm after an exam.
What happens if I delay a filling
Delaying a filling can let decay reach the tooth root, which often means more complex treatment, such as a root canal.
