Tooth Fillings in Singapore
Medically reviewed by Dr Tan Wei Chong, BDent (Hons) Last reviewed [July 2026]
Dealing with tooth pain or noticed a dark spot on your tooth? A tooth filling, also known as a dental filling, can help prevent decay and restore your tooth’s shape and function. At TWC Dental, we offer personalised filling treatments from S$80 to S$180 depending on the material used.
Tooth Filling Cost in Singapore by Material
The cost of tooth fillings in Singapore typically ranges from S$80 to S$180 for direct fillings, and higher for indirect options depending on the material used and the condition of the tooth. At TWC Dental, we offer transparent pricing and accept CHAS dental subsidies to help make dental care affordable for our patients.Â
Before any filling is placed, our dentist examines the tooth during a consultation to confirm the extent of decay and the type of filling suited to it. This consultation is charged separately from the filling itself.
Components | Details |
Estimated Cost Range | S$100 to S$200 (direct fillings), with prices varying by material:
|
Factors Affecting the Price | Complexity of the process and individual patient needs |
Subsidies Accepted | CHAS Dental Subsidy |
Insurance Coverage | Assistance with insurance claims to help you understand your coverage |
How TWC Dental Helps | Transparent pricing, CHAS subsidy accepted, and support for insurance claims |
The cost of tooth fillings in Singapore can vary, influenced by several factors that patients may consider when planning their dental care. These factors include:
- Type of Filling Material: Different materials, such as composite resin, gold, porcelain, or silver amalgam, may have varying prices. Composite resin fillings, for example, can be more affordable than gold or porcelain but may not last as long.
- Size and Location of the Cavity: Larger cavities and those located in harder-to-reach areas may require more time and material to fill, which can increase the cost.
- Additional Dental Work: If additional dental services, such as a dental cleaning or an X-ray, are needed during the tooth filling process, this can also impact the overall cost.
- Dental Insurance Coverage: Patients with dental insurance may check their policy to understand what is covered, as this can help reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
These prices are within the Ministry of Health’s published fee benchmark range for dental fillings. You can refer to the MOH fee benchmarks at moh.gov.sg.
Payment Plans and Financial Assistance for Tooth Fillings
When considering dental fillings, it is important to understand the associated costs, as they vary based on factors such as the complexity of the process and individual patient needs.
To manage tooth filling costs in Singapore, patients can look into several avenues for more affordable dental care. The CHAS Dental Subsidy is accepted at our clinic and can help reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
The table below outlines the CHAS dental subsidies for tooth filling procedures in Singapore:
Dental Filling | CHAS Orange Subsidy | CHAS Blue Subsidy | Merdeka Generation (MG) Subsidy | Pioneer Generation (PG) Subsidy | Claim Limits |
Simple | S$20 | S$30 | S$35 | S$40 | Up to 6 filings per calendar year |
Complex | S$33.50 | S$50 | S$55 | S$60 | Up to 6 filing per calendar year |
Please note that MediSave is not applicable for tooth filling procedures. This clarity on treatment costs and coverage eligibility allows you to make informed decisions and avoid unexpected expenses.
For those with dental insurance, our dental team can assist you in understanding and processing claims, and provide support throughout the claims process, so you can maximise your benefits.
Example: CHAS Blue cardholder getting a simple filling
Item | Amount |
Consultation fee | S$40 – S$50 |
Simple filling fee | S$90 – S$150 |
CHAS Blue subsidy (simple filling) | – S$30 |
Estimated out-of-pocket | S$140 |
* Figures above are for illustration and depend on the material used and the condition of your tooth. Please contact the clinic for a quotation based on your situation.
What Are Tooth Fillings?
Tooth fillings are a restorative dental treatment where durable materials are used to fill spaces in teeth damaged by decay or trauma. These materials can be made of various substances, depending on the needs or preferences of the patient. This treatment helps to maintain the functionality and appearance of the tooth.
How is a Dental Filling Done?
Dental fillings begin with the dentist cleaning out decayed material to prevent further deterioration. Once the area is cleaned, a filling material is selected based on the tooth’s location, cavity size, and aesthetic considerations.
The material is carefully shaped and hardened within the cavity to match the tooth’s original form. Finally, the filling is polished to blend with the surrounding surface, helping to maintain the tooth’s function and prevent further decay.
Identifying the need for a dental filling early is important for maintaining oral health. If you experience any of the following symptoms, you may need a tooth filling:
- Persistent Toothache or Discomfort:Â Constant pain or recurring discomfort in the tooth can often signify that decay has reached the nerves or the tooth pulp. This may weaken the tooth structure, leading to the need for a tooth filling.
- Increased Sensitivity:Â Heightened sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet stimuli may indicate that the enamel has been compromised and the sensitive inner layers of the tooth are exposed. This may indicate an opening in the tooth, which may require a dental filling.
- Visible Damage to the Tooth: Holes, pits, or dark spots on a tooth’s surface are common signs of decay. Tooth fillings can help improve the appearance, minimising the need for tooth extraction.
- Changes in Texture or Colour:Â Noticeable changes in the feel or appearance of a tooth surface may indicate enamel erosion or decay. These may indicate the need for a tooth filling to manage the decay.
Different types of fillings may be considered based on individual needs. For example, those concerned about aesthetics may opt for tooth-coloured fillings, while others may choose more durable materials based on the tooth’s location and function.
Leaving a cavity untreated allows decay to progress deeper into the tooth. Over time, the decay can reach the inner pulp where the nerves sit, which may cause more pain and infection. At that stage, a simple filling may no longer be enough, and a root canal treatment or tooth extraction may be needed instead. Attending to decay early with a tooth filling helps preserve more of the natural tooth.
When Do You Need a Tooth Filling?
Types of Tooth Fillings: Materials and Comparisons
Filling materials come in several types. You can get a tooth filling of your choice according to your needs and preferences. Here are the types of fillings available:
Gold Fillings
Gold fillings are a durable and inert option for dental restorations. However, they come with a higher price tag than other filling materials, making them a more significant investment. The placement of gold fillings may also require multiple dental visits, which can add to the overall cost.
Lasting time: Over 20 years
Estimated cost:Â varies based on the current price of gold
Best suited for: Back teeth such as molars, where chewing forces are high and appearance is less of a concern.
Composite Resin Fillings
Composite resin fillings are plastic fillings designed to blend with your natural tooth colour, making them cosmetically favourable. However, these fillings are less suitable for large cavities because they can chip away over time. This could necessitate more frequent replacements to maintain oral health.
Lasting time: Five to seven years
Estimated cost: S$250 to S$350 per tooth
Best suited for: Front teeth or visible areas where colour match matters, and small to medium cavities.
Porcelain Fillings
Porcelain fillings are firmly bonded to the tooth and can blend with the natural shade of the tooth. As a result, they offer a long-lasting option for dental issues. While they can be used for larger fillings, they are also a more costly option, similar in price to gold fillings. However, these fillings are often favoured for their aesthetic look and durability, making them a worthwhile investment.
Lasting time: Over 15 years
Estimated cost: S$1300 to S$1500 per tooth
Best suited for: Larger fillings in visible areas where both colour match and durability are considerations.
Metal Fillings (Amalgam Filling)
Metal fillings, such as silver amalgam, typically have a lower price point than other filling materials and can last for a long time. However, their main drawback is that they are darker in colour and may not provide the best cosmetic effect, making them less suitable for areas like the front teeth where appearance is more noticeable.
Lasting time: About 15 years
Best suited for: Back teeth where chewing load is high and appearance is less of a priority.
Glass Ionomer Fillings
Glass ionomer fillings are made from a blend of acrylic acids and fine glass powders. They can release fluoride to help protect teeth, making them ideal for children or those below the gum line. However, they are less durable than other types and may need replacement sooner.
Lasting time: About 5 years
Estimated cost: S$80 to S$100 per tooth
Best suited for: Children’s teeth, small non-load-bearing cavities, and areas below the gum line.
Ceramic Fillings
Ceramic fillings are crafted from a type of porcelain. They are known for their durability and ability to resist stains while matching the natural colour of teeth. However, they tend to be costly and must be made in a dental lab or with a milling machine before being bonded into place.
Lasting time: 15 years or longer
Estimated cost: S$1300 to S$1500 per tooth
Best suited for: Patients who want a tooth-coloured restoration that resists staining, for medium to larger cavities.
Indirect Tooth Fillings
Inlays
Inlays are ideal for cavities that are too large and deep for standard fillings. Unlike fillings that can be completed in one visit using composite material, inlays require a custom-made piece from materials like porcelain or gold crafted in a laboratory to ensure a snug fit.
Lasting time: Up to 30 years
Estimated cost: starting from S$1,600 per tooth
Best suited for: Larger cavities within the cusps of the tooth that are too big for a direct filling.
Onlays
Onlays cover a larger portion of the tooth, extending onto one or more cusps. Like inlays, they are made in a dental lab and require multiple appointments. Onlays are suitable for more extensive tooth damage, covering more surface area than fillings or inlays while requiring less tooth alteration than crowns.
Lasting time: Up to 30 years
Estimated cost: starting from S$1,600 per tooth
Best suited for: Extensive damage extending over one or more cusps, where a crown would remove more tooth structure.
Dental Filling Procedure
Dental filling is a multi-step process, typically completed over a single visit. Here’s a detailed guide to the process:
Step 1: Preparation for the Procedure
Once the extent of the tooth decay is evaluated, the dentist may discuss the patient’s medical history and address any concerns. This step tailors the dental filling approach to the patient's health needs and addresses potential risks.
Step 2: Apply Anaesthesia
To ensure patient comfort, local anaesthesia is administered to numb the area around the affected tooth.
Step 3: Remove Decay
Once the area is numb, the dentist uses specific tools to remove the decayed portion of the tooth. This step is performed carefully to ensure only the decayed material is removed while preserving as much of the healthy tooth structure as possible.
Step 4: Tooth Preparation
After decay removal, the tooth is cleaned to address any remaining bacteria or debris. This step is vital in preventing further decay and ensuring the filling bonds properly with the tooth.
Step 5: Filling Application
The dentist then places the selected filling material, such as composite resin, gold, or silver amalgam, into the prepared cavity. This material is selected based on the location of the tooth, the extent of decay, and the patient’s preferences.
Step 6: Curing Process
For composite resin fillings, a dental curing light is used to harden the material, ensuring the filling is strong and durable.
Step 7: Shaping and Polishing
The filling is then shaped to match the natural contour of the tooth and polished to a smooth finish. This ensures that the filling is comfortable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing.
Step 8: Post-Procedure Care Advice
Once the tooth filling is complete, the dental clinic will provide detailed guidance on aftercare. This includes advice on oral hygiene practices, dietary recommendations, and any follow-up appointments needed. This is essential for ensuring the longevity of the filling and the continued health of the tooth.
Dental Filling Aftercare
- Wait until any numbness from the local anaesthetic has fully worn off before eating, as you may accidentally bite your cheek or tongue.
- For the first day, chew on the opposite side of the mouth to give the material time to set.
- Avoid hard, sticky, or very hot and cold foods that can dislodge or stress the new filling.
- Continue to brush your teeth twice a day and floss around the treated tooth to keep the area clean.
- Mild sensitivity in the first few days is common and usually settles on its own.
- Contact the dental clinic if you have pain lasting more than a few days, a filling that feels high or uneven when you bite, or a filling that has visibly chipped or fallen out.
Why Choose TWC Dental for Tooth Fillings?
TWC Implant & Dental Center is licensed by the Ministry of Health, Singapore. Both clinics operate under MOH dental clinic licences.
Licence numbers:Â
Jurong East: 22D0225Â
Yishun: 25D0630
Our Expertise
- Experienced in managing both simple and complex dental fillings.
- Familiar with a range of filling materials and techniques.
- Trained to assess structural damage before recommending a filling.
- Knowledgeable in restoring function and appearance with appropriate materials.
- Continuously updates skills through accredited clinical training.
Our Approach
- Review dental and medical history to assess filling suitability.
- Advise on filling types based on tooth location and function.
- Aim to retain as much natural tooth structure as possible.
- Monitor for signs of failure or recurrent decay post-procedure.
- Prioritise patient comfort throughout the procedure.
Our Technology
- Use dental technologies to assess decay depth and cavity structure.
- Apply materials using techniques for strong bonding.
- Maintain equipment according to sterilisation protocols.
- Review emerging tools and materials based on clinical efficacy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tooth Filling in Singapore
How do I know which type of dental filling to choose?
The choice of dental filling material is tailored to individual needs, considering factors like the location of the cavity, aesthetic preferences, the extent of tooth decay, and any specific dental sensitivities or allergies. Your dentist will provide insights to help you understand the pros and cons of each material and guide you in making the most suitable choice for your dental health and lifestyle.
How should I prepare for my tooth filling appointment?
Preparing for a tooth filling involves maintaining good oral hygiene, including proper brushing and flossing. It is also advisable to eat a regular meal beforehand since the anaesthetic used might cause temporary numbness, making eating difficult post-procedure. Informing the dentist about any ongoing medical conditions or medications allows them to adjust the treatment to ensure it aligns with your health needs.
Will I feel pain during the tooth filling procedure?
Due to the use of local anaesthesia in the treatment area, you may experience minimal pain during the tooth filling process. While you may feel slight pressure, significant pain is generally not experienced. If you have any concerns or a low threshold for discomfort, please communicate with the team so that they can take additional steps to optimise your comfort.
Will there be sensitivity issues post-filling?
It is common to experience some sensitivity in the treated tooth after a filling, particularly to temperature changes or pressure. This sensitivity usually subsides within a few days. Patients are advised to use toothpaste for sensitive teeth and avoid extreme temperatures in food and drinks. If sensitivity persists or is severe, a follow-up appointment may be necessary.
How much does a consultation cost before a tooth filling?
A consultation is required before any filling is placed, and it is charged separately from the treatment. Please contact our Jurong East or Yishun clinic for the current consultation fee.
What is the difference between a direct and indirect filling?
A direct filling is placed and set inside the tooth in a single visit. An indirect filling, such as an inlay or onlay, is made in a dental laboratory and then bonded in place, usually requiring more than one visit.
How long will my filling last?
The longevity of a dental filling may depend on factors, such as the type of material used, its location in the mouth, and the patient’s oral hygiene practices. Composite fillings, for example, may last around five to seven years, while gold and porcelain can last from 15 to 20 years or more with proper care. Regular dental check-ups are important to monitor the condition of the filling and overall oral health.
When should I replace my old fillings?
Old fillings should be replaced when they show signs of wear, damage, or decay around the edges. Regular dental check-ups allow the dentist to monitor the condition of your fillings and determine if they need replacement. If you experience sensitivity or pain or notice any cracks or discolouration in your fillings, it is advisable to consult your dentist promptly.
How can I tell if my dental filling has fallen out?
You may notice a dental filling has fallen out if you feel a sudden change in tooth texture, a new hole or roughness, or increased sensitivity or pain in the tooth. These signs suggest that the filling may no longer be in place.
Can a tooth filling decay or get a cavity?
While the tooth filling material itself doesn’t decay, cavities can still develop around or underneath a filling if proper oral hygiene isn’t maintained.
Are subsidies available for dental fillings in Singapore?
Yes. CHAS dental subsidies may be applicable for tooth filling procedures, subject to eligibility and claim limits. MediSave is not applicable for standard dental fillings. Our clinic team can assist with subsidy enquiries.
How much does a consultation cost before a tooth filling?
A consultation is required before any filling is placed, and it is charged separately from the treatment. Please contact our Jurong East or Yishun clinic for the current consultation fee.
Is a tooth filling covered by MediSave?
No. MediSave cannot be used for standard tooth fillings in Singapore. It generally applies to certain surgical dental procedures. CHAS dental subsidies may apply to fillings, subject to eligibility and claim limits.
Book a Tooth Filling Appointment
Have tooth decay, sensitivity, or discomfort? Book a tooth filling appointment at TWC Dental to assess the affected tooth and restore its function. Our dental clinic in Jurong or Yishun provides consultations and treatment planning for dental fillings.
Dr Tan Wei Chong
Dental Surgeon
Licence No: D25715Z
Dr Tan Wei Chong graduated with a Bachelor of Dentistry (Honours) from the University of Queensland and completed additional clinical training at the California Implant Institute. He is also an active member of the Australian and Singapore Dental Association. He provides general dental services including dental fillings, and is a certified Invisalign provider.