tooth filling cost in saudi arabia
Dental cavities are one of the most common oral health issues worldwide, and Saudi Arabia is no exception. Tooth fillings are the standard treatment for cavities, preventing further decay and restoring tooth functionality. However, the cost of tooth fillings in Saudi Arabia varies significantly based on materials, location, and the dentist’s expertise.
This in-depth guide explores everything you need to know about tooth filling costs in Saudi Arabia, including types of fillings, price comparisons, insurance coverage, and tips for choosing the best option. Whether you’re in Riyadh, Jeddah, or Dammam, this article will help you make an informed decision.
2. Types of Dental Fillings
Amalgam Fillings (Silver Fillings)
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Material: A mix of mercury, silver, tin, and copper.
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Durability: 10-15 years.
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Pros: Strong, long-lasting, cost-effective.
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Cons: Visible, contains mercury (debated safety).
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Cost in KSA: 150 – 400 SAR per tooth.
Composite Resin Fillings (Tooth-Colored Fillings)
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Material: Plastic and glass mixture.
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Durability: 5-10 years.
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Pros: Aesthetic, bonds well with teeth.
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Cons: Less durable than amalgam.
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Cost in KSA: 300 – 800 SAR per tooth.
Ceramic Fillings (Porcelain Fillings)
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Material: High-quality porcelain.
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Durability: 15+ years.
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Pros: Stain-resistant, natural appearance.
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Cons: Expensive, requires multiple visits.
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Cost in KSA: 800 – 2,500 SAR per tooth.
Gold Fillings
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Material: Gold alloy.
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Durability: 20+ years.
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Pros: Extremely durable, biocompatible.
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Cons: High cost, noticeable.
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Cost in KSA: 1,500 – 4,000 SAR per tooth.
Glass Ionomer Fillings
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Material: Acrylic and glass powder.
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Durability: 5 years.
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Pros: Releases fluoride, good for children.
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Cons: Weak, not long-lasting.
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Cost in KSA: 200 – 500 SAR per tooth.
3. Factors Affecting Tooth Filling Costs in Saudi Arabia
Material Used
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Composite fillings cost more than amalgam but are less noticeable.
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Gold and ceramic are premium options with higher prices.
Dentist’s Expertise & Clinic Reputation
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Experienced dentists charge more (500 – 2,000 SAR).
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Luxury clinics in Riyadh & Jeddah have higher fees.
Location of the Dental Clinic
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Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam: Higher prices (300 – 2,500 SAR).
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Smaller cities: Lower costs (200 – 1,500 SAR).
Number of Cavities & Complexity
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Multiple cavities increase costs.
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Deep decay may require root canal treatment first.
Insurance Coverage
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Some Saudi insurance plans cover 50-80% of filling costs.
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Check with Bupa Arabia, Tawuniya, or MedGulf.
4. Average Cost of Tooth Fillings in Saudi Arabia
Cost Comparison by City
City | Amalgam (SAR) | Composite (SAR) | Ceramic (SAR) | Gold (SAR) |
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Riyadh | 150 – 400 | 400 – 1,000 | 1,000 – 2,500 | 2,000 – 4,000 |
Jeddah | 150 – 400 | 400 – 900 | 900 – 2,200 | 1,800 – 3,500 |
Dammam | 130 – 350 | 350 – 800 | 800 – 2,000 | 1,500 – 3,000 |
Medina | 120 – 300 | 300 – 700 | 700 – 1,800 | 1,400 – 2,800 |
Abha | 100 – 250 | 250 – 600 | 600 – 1,500 | 1,200 – 2,500 |
Public vs. Private Clinics
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Government hospitals: 50 – 300 SAR (long waiting times).
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Private clinics: 200 – 4,000 SAR (faster service).
5. Dental Insurance and Discounts
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Bupa Arabia: Covers up to 80% of filling costs.
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Tawuniya: Offers partial coverage (50-70%).
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Corporate Discounts: Some companies provide dental benefits.
6. How to Choose the Right Filling Material
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Budget-friendly: Amalgam or glass ionomer.
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Aesthetic needs: Composite or ceramic.
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Longevity: Gold or ceramic.
7. Step-by-Step Tooth Filling Procedure
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Diagnosis: X-ray to detect cavities.
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Anesthesia: Numbing the area.
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Decay Removal: Drilling out the damaged part.
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Filling Placement: Filling the cavity.
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Polishing: Smoothing the tooth surface.
8. Aftercare & Maintenance Tips
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Avoid hard foods for 24 hours.
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Maintain oral hygiene (brushing & flossing).
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Visit the dentist every 6 months.
9. Risks & Complications of Dental Fillings
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Tooth sensitivity.
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Allergic reactions (rare).
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Filling cracks or falls out.
10. Alternatives to Dental Fillings
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Dental Crowns (for severe decay).
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Inlays/Onlays (partial crowns).
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Tooth Extraction (last resort).
11. FAQs
Q1: How much does a tooth filling cost in Saudi Arabia?
A: Between 150 – 4,000 SAR, depending on material and location.
Q2: Does insurance cover tooth fillings in KSA?
A: Yes, most insurers cover 50-80% of the cost.
Q3: Which filling is best for front teeth?
A: Composite or ceramic (aesthetic choice).
Q4: How long do fillings last?
A: Amalgam (10-15 years), Composite (5-10 years), Gold (20+ years).
Q5: Can I eat after a filling?
A: Wait 1-2 hours if anesthesia was used.
12. Conclusion
Tooth filling costs in Saudi Arabia vary based on material, location, and dentist expertise. Amalgam is the cheapest, while gold and ceramic are premium options. Dental insurance can reduce expenses, and proper aftercare ensures longevity. Always consult a trusted dentist for personalized advice.