Tooth Filling Prices in the Philippines -

Dental cavities are a common problem in the Philippines, affecting both children and adults due to sugary diets and inconsistent oral hygiene. If left untreated, cavities can lead to severe toothaches, infections, and even tooth loss. Fortunately, dental fillings offer an effective and affordable solution to restore damaged teeth.

But how much does a tooth filling cost in the Philippines? Prices vary widely depending on the type of filling material, dentist’s expertise, and clinic location. In this exclusive, in-depth guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about tooth filling costs, the best materials available, and how to choose the right dentist for your needs.

Table of Contents

2. What Are Dental Fillings?

A dental filling is a restorative treatment used to repair cavities, cracks, or minor tooth damage. The dentist removes the decayed portion of the tooth, cleans the area, and fills it with a durable material to restore its function and appearance.

Fillings prevent further decay and protect the tooth from bacterial infection. Without treatment, cavities can worsen, leading to root canal treatment or extraction.

3. Types of Dental Fillings Available in the Philippines

A. Amalgam Fillings (Silver Fillings)

Material: A mix of mercury, silver, tin, and copper.
Pros: Durable, long-lasting (10-15 years), affordable.
Cons: Not aesthetically pleasing (dark color), may cause tooth sensitivity.
Price Range: ₱800 – ₱2,500 per tooth.

B. Composite Resin Fillings (Tooth-Colored Fillings)

Material: Plastic and glass mixture that matches natural teeth.
Pros: Aesthetic, bonds well with teeth, minimal drilling required.
Cons: Less durable than amalgam (5-7 years), more expensive.
Price Range: ₱1,500 – ₱4,500 per tooth.

C. Glass Ionomer Fillings

Material: Acrylic and glass mixture that releases fluoride.
Pros: Good for children, prevents further decay.
Cons: Less durable (5 years), weaker than composite.
Price Range: ₱1,200 – ₱3,000 per tooth.

D. Ceramic Fillings (Porcelain Fillings)

Material: High-quality porcelain, custom-made in a lab.
Pros: Highly aesthetic, stain-resistant, long-lasting (15+ years).
Cons: Expensive, requires multiple visits.
Price Range: ₱5,000 – ₱15,000 per tooth.

E. Gold Fillings

Material: Gold alloy (rarely used today).
Pros: Extremely durable (20+ years), biocompatible.
Cons: Very expensive, noticeable appearance.
Price Range: ₱10,000 – ₱25,000 per tooth.

4. Factors Affecting Tooth Filling Prices

Several factors influence the cost of dental fillings in the Philippines:

Factor	Impact on Price
Material Used	Composite & ceramic are more expensive than amalgam.
Dentist’s Expertise	Experienced dentists charge higher fees.
Clinic Location	Urban areas (Makati, BGC) have higher prices than provinces.
Tooth Condition	Deep cavities require more complex fillings, increasing cost.
Clinic Reputation	High-end clinics charge premium rates.

5. Average Tooth Filling Prices in the Philippines

Filling Type	Price Range (₱)
Amalgam (Silver)	₱800 – ₱2,500
Composite Resin	₱1,500 – ₱4,500
Glass Ionomer	₱1,200 – ₱3,000
Ceramic (Porcelain)	₱5,000 – ₱15,000
Gold Fillings	₱10,000 – ₱25,000

Prices may vary depending on the clinic and location.

6. Affordable vs. Premium Dental Fillings: Which is Better?

Budget-Friendly Option: Amalgam fillings are the cheapest but less aesthetic.
Mid-Range Option: Composite resin offers a balance between cost and appearance.
Premium Option: Ceramic and gold fillings are long-lasting but expensive.

Recommendation: If budget allows, composite or ceramic fillings are ideal for front teeth, while amalgam works for less visible molars.

7. Does PhilHealth or Dental Insurance Cover Fillings?

PhilHealth: Does not cover routine fillings but may subsidize extractions in government hospitals.
Private Dental Insurance: Some HMOs (Maxicare, Intellicare) cover fillings partially. Check your policy.

8. How to Choose the Right Dentist for Your Filling

✔ Check credentials (licensed by PRC).
✔ Read patient reviews (Google, Facebook).
✔ Compare prices in different clinics.
✔ Ask about warranties (some clinics offer free repairs).

9. Step-by-Step Tooth Filling Procedure

Consultation: Dentist examines the cavity.
Anesthesia: Numbing gel or injection applied.
Decay Removal: Rotting tooth parts drilled out.
Filling Placement: Material shaped and hardened.
Polishing: Smooth finish for comfort.

10. Aftercare and Maintenance Tips

Avoid hard foods for 24 hours.
Brush gently around the filled tooth.
Use fluoride toothpaste to prevent new cavities.
Visit the dentist every 6 months for check-ups.

11. Common Myths About Dental Fillings

❌ “Fillings last forever.” → Most last 5-15 years.
❌ “Silver fillings are toxic.” → Amalgam is FDA-approved.
❌ “Fillings are painful.” → Modern anesthesia makes it painless.

12. FAQs About Tooth Fillings in the Philippines

Q: How long does a tooth filling take?
A: 20-60 minutes, depending on cavity size.

Q: Can I eat after a filling?
A: Wait 1-2 hours if composite; 24 hours if amalgam.

Q: Do fillings hurt?
A: No, local anesthesia prevents pain.

Q: What’s the cheapest filling option?
A: Amalgam (₱800 – ₱2,500).

Q: How do I know if I need a filling?
A: Tooth sensitivity, pain, or visible holes indicate cavities.

13. Conclusion

Tooth filling prices in the Philippines range from ₱800 to ₱25,000, depending on material and clinic. Composite resin (₱1,500 – ₱4,500) is the most popular for its balance of affordability and aesthetics. Always consult a licensed dentist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Tooth Filling Prices in the Philippines

2. What Are Dental Fillings?