How Many Surfaces Is My Filling?

Dental filling costs depend on the number of tooth surfaces affected by the cavity. Each tooth has five distinct surfaces: the biting/chewing surface, cheek-facing surface, tongue-facing surface, and two surfaces contacting adjacent teeth.

1 Surface Filling — $300

"Only one surface of the tooth is affected by the cavity." This most commonly affects the grooved biting surface. Treatment requires removing the cavity and finishing just one surface — the least complex and least expensive option.

2 Surface Filling — $350

Occurs frequently when cavities develop between teeth. "A cavity that is between teeth is always a minimum of two surfaces" because accessing the cavity requires drilling through the biting surface as well. Requires matrix band placement and additional finishing time.

3 Surface Filling — $400

"Often when both sides of the tooth have cavities that started between teeth," or when fracture undermines a cusp. Involves increased shaping complexity and requires greater precision.

4+ Surface Filling — $450

Affects four or all five surfaces due to extensive decay or fracture damage. Common in front teeth with chip damage involving the biting edge. Requires comprehensive shaping and polishing.