Are Composite Fillings Covered by Insurance?
If you’re considering composite fillings, one of the most common questions is whether dental insurance will help cover the cost. The answer depends on your provider, plan details, and the reason for the procedure.
At Sweet Water Dentistry, we’re committed to transparency and helping our patients navigate their benefits. Here’s what you need to know about insurance and composite fillings.
Are Composite Fillings Considered Essential Care?
Yes—in most cases. Dental insurance plans generally cover fillings that are deemed medically necessary to treat tooth decay or damage. That includes composite fillings when they’re used on visible or front-facing teeth.
However, coverage may differ when it comes to back teeth.
Posterior vs. Anterior Coverage
- Anterior (front) teeth: Most plans cover composite fillings 100% to 80% because of aesthetic needs.
- Posterior (back) teeth: Some insurance plans may only cover the cost of an amalgam (silver) filling. If you choose composite for a back tooth, you may pay the difference out-of-pocket.
Always check your specific plan or call our office—we’ll help you find out.
What Will I Pay Out-of-Pocket?
If your plan treats composite as a basic restorative service, you may be responsible for:
- Deductible: Often $50–$100 annually
- Coinsurance: 20%–40% of the procedure cost
- Balance Billing: The difference between amalgam and composite, if your plan limits posterior coverage
How Much Do Composite Fillings Cost?
On average, composite fillings range from $150 to $250 depending on:
- Tooth location
- Size of the cavity
- Number of surfaces restored
Our team will provide an estimate and submit a pre-authorization if needed.
In-Network vs. Out-of-Network
Sweet Water Dentistry is in-network with many major providers, which means:
- Lower out-of-pocket costs
- Maximized plan benefits
- Simplified claims processing
We’re happy to verify your insurance benefits before treatment and explain what’s covered.
What If I Don’t Have Insurance?
No problem! We offer:
- Flexible payment options
- Membership savings plans
- CareCredit financing
Our goal is to make dental care accessible to every patient in our Fairhope community.
Final Thoughts
Composite fillings are not only effective—they’re also affordable with insurance coverage in many cases. Understanding your plan’s benefits can help you make informed choices about your dental health.
Still have questions? Our team at Sweet Water Dentistry is here to help. Call us at 251-210-2773 to schedule an appointment or insurance consultation.
Visit us for expert care:
Sweet Water Dentistry
📍 5915 Sweetwater Cir, Fairhope, AL 36532
🌐 sweetwatersmile.com
📞 Call or Text: (251) 210-2773
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Next in the series: “Can Composite Fillings Be Repaired?”