Tooth Filling Cost in Kenya: A Comprehensive Guide -

Dental cavities are one of the most common oral health issues affecting Kenyans. If left untreated, they can lead to severe pain, infections, and even tooth loss. Fortunately, tooth fillings offer an effective and affordable solution to restore damaged teeth.

But how much does a tooth filling cost in Kenya? The price varies widely depending on the filling material, dentist’s expertise, and clinic location. This exclusive guide provides a detailed breakdown of tooth filling costs in Kenya, including types of fillings, price comparisons, and ways to save money on treatment.

Whether you’re considering amalgam, composite, or ceramic fillings, this article will help you make an informed decision.

Table of Contents

2. What is a Dental Filling?

A dental filling is a restorative procedure used to repair a decayed or damaged tooth. The dentist removes the decayed portion, cleans the cavity, and fills it with a durable material to restore the tooth’s shape and function.

Fillings prevent further decay and protect the tooth from bacterial infection. They are commonly used for:

Treating cavities
Repairing cracked or broken teeth
Replacing old, worn-out fillings

3. Types of Dental Fillings Available in Kenya

A. Amalgam Fillings (Silver Fillings)

Material: A mix of mercury, silver, tin, and copper.
Pros: Durable, affordable, lasts 10-15 years.
Cons: Visible (not tooth-colored), contains mercury (debated safety).
Cost: Ksh 2,000 – Ksh 5,000 per tooth.

B. Composite Fillings (Tooth-Colored Fillings)

Material: Resin-based, blends with natural teeth.
Pros: Aesthetic, bonds well with teeth, mercury-free.
Cons: Less durable than amalgam, may stain over time.
Cost: Ksh 5,000 – Ksh 12,000 per tooth.

C. Glass Ionomer Fillings

Material: Acrylic and glass powder, releases fluoride.
Pros: Good for children, prevents further decay.
Cons: Less durable, lasts 5-7 years.
Cost: Ksh 3,000 – Ksh 8,000 per tooth.

D. Ceramic Fillings (Porcelain Fillings)

Material: High-quality porcelain, custom-made.
Pros: Highly aesthetic, stain-resistant, long-lasting.
Cons: Expensive, requires multiple visits.
Cost: Ksh 10,000 – Ksh 25,000 per tooth.

E. Gold Fillings

Material: Gold alloy (rarely used today).
Pros: Extremely durable, lasts 20+ years.
Cons: Very expensive, noticeable.
Cost: Ksh 15,000 – Ksh 40,000 per tooth.

4. Factors Affecting Tooth Filling Costs in Kenya

Factor	Impact on Cost
Type of Filling	Composite & ceramic are more expensive than amalgam.
Dentist’s Experience	Specialists charge more than general dentists.
Clinic Location	Urban clinics (Nairobi, Mombasa) cost more than rural ones.
Number of Cavities	Multiple fillings increase the total cost.
Additional Procedures	X-rays, anesthesia, or deep cleaning add extra charges.

5. Average Cost of Tooth Fillings in Kenya

Filling Type	Price Range (Ksh)
Amalgam (Silver)	2,000 – 5,000
Composite (White)	5,000 – 12,000
Glass Ionomer	3,000 – 8,000
Ceramic	10,000 – 25,000
Gold	15,000 – 40,000

Note: Prices vary depending on the clinic and dentist’s expertise.

6. Best Dental Clinics for Fillings in Kenya

Nairobi Dental Hospital – Affordable, high-quality care.
Kenyatta National Hospital Dental Unit – Government-subsidized prices.
The Karen Dental Clinic – Premium services, advanced technology.
Mombasa Dental Suite – Best for coastal residents.

7. Does Insurance Cover Tooth Fillings in Kenya?

Most NHIF and private insurance plans cover basic fillings (amalgam) but may not cover cosmetic options like composite or ceramic. Always confirm with your provider.

8. How to Save Money on Dental Fillings

✔ Compare prices from multiple clinics.
✔ Consider dental schools (lower costs, supervised procedures).
✔ Opt for amalgam if budget is tight.
✔ Use NHIF or insurance coverage.

9. The Procedure: What to Expect During a Filling

Examination & X-rays – The dentist checks the cavity.
Anesthesia – Local numbing to prevent pain.
Decay Removal – The dentist drills out the decay.
Filling Placement – The cavity is filled and polished.
Aftercare Instructions – Avoid hard foods for 24 hours.

10. Aftercare & Maintenance of Dental Fillings

Avoid chewing hard foods immediately after.
Maintain good oral hygiene (brush & floss daily).
Visit the dentist for regular check-ups.

11. Risks & Complications of Dental Fillings

Tooth Sensitivity – Common after placement.
Allergic Reactions – Rare (mostly with metal fillings).
Filling Failure – May crack or fall out over time.

12. Alternatives to Tooth Fillings

Dental Crowns – For severely damaged teeth.
Root Canal – If decay reaches the nerve.
Tooth Extraction – Last resort if the tooth cannot be saved.

13. Conclusion

Tooth filling costs in Kenya range from Ksh 2,000 to Ksh 40,000, depending on the material and clinic. Amalgam is the cheapest, while ceramic and gold are premium options. Always consult a qualified dentist for the best treatment.

14. FAQs

Q1: How long do dental fillings last?

Amalgam: 10-15 years
Composite: 5-10 years
Ceramic/Gold: 15-20+ years

Q2: Are tooth fillings painful?

No, dentists use local anesthesia to numb the area.

Q3: Can I eat after a filling?

Wait at least 2 hours before eating (longer if still numb).

Q4: Can a filling fall out?

Yes, due to wear, decay under filling, or trauma.

Q5: Are white fillings better than silver?

Yes, aesthetically, but amalgam is more durable.

Tooth Filling Cost in Kenya: A Comprehensive Guide

2. What is a Dental Filling?