Dental Fillings in Townsville at a Glance
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Cost (small composite) | $150–$250 per tooth |
| Cost (medium–large composite) | $250–$450 per tooth |
| Cost (ceramic inlay/onlay) | $800–$1,800 — see inlays & onlays |
| Procedure time | 30–60 minutes per filling, single visit |
| Lifespan | 7–10+ years (composite); 15–20 years (ceramic) |
| Health fund rebate | Extras dental cover typically rebates $50–$150 per filling |
| Item numbers | ADA items 521–525 (adhesive restoration, by surfaces) |
| CDBS (children) | Covered for eligible kids under the Child Dental Benefits Schedule |
Quick Answer: A tooth-coloured (composite) dental filling in Townsville costs between $150 and $450 per tooth in 2026, depending on size and how many tooth surfaces are involved — small one-surface fillings start around $150, while large multi-surface fillings reach $450. Ceramic inlays/onlays for larger cavities cost $800–$1,800. Each filling takes 30–60 minutes in a single visit and composite fillings last 7–10+ years. Private health funds with extras dental cover typically rebate $50–$150 per filling (claimed on the spot via HICAPS), and fillings for eligible children are covered under the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS).
Sources: Australian Dental Association (ADA) fee guidance; Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW); Child Dental Benefits Schedule (Services Australia).
How Much Do Dental Fillings Cost in Townsville?
Filling fees are charged per tooth and scale with the number of surfaces restored (a single-surface filling is cheaper than a three-surface one). The ranges below reflect 2026 fees in line with Australian Dental Association survey data for North Queensland.
| Filling Type | Surfaces / Size | Lifespan | Cost per Tooth (AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Composite (direct) | 1 surface, small | 7–10 years | $150–$250 |
| Composite (direct) | 2–3 surfaces | 7–10 years | $250–$450 |
| Glass ionomer | Gum-line, children | 5–7 years | $130–$250 |
| Ceramic inlay (indirect) | Within cusps, large | 15–20 years | $800–$1,400 |
| Ceramic onlay (indirect) | Over cusps, very large | 15–20 years | $1,000–$1,800 |
Most Townsville clinics process HICAPS on the spot, so any extras dental rebate ($50–$150 per filling is typical) applies immediately. Fillings are covered for eligible children under the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) — worth up to roughly $1,132 over two years per eligible child as of 2026. There is no general Medicare rebate for adult fillings.
What Are Dental Fillings?
A dental filling is a restorative material used to repair a tooth damaged by decay, fracture, or wear. Fillings restore the tooth’s shape, strength, and function while preventing further deterioration. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, dental caries affects approximately 90 per cent of Australian adults at some point in their lifetime, making fillings one of the most commonly performed dental procedures (AIHW, Oral Health and Dental Care in Australia, 2023).
In Townsville, verified Townsville clinics use tooth-coloured composite resin and ceramic materials exclusively. These bond directly to the tooth structure, providing a natural appearance and preserving more healthy tooth compared to traditional amalgam fillings.
Types of Dental Fillings
Composite Resin Fillings (Direct)
Tooth-coloured composite resin is applied directly to the tooth in layers, shaped, and hardened with a curing light. This is the most common type of filling and is suitable for small to medium cavities in any tooth.
Ceramic Inlays and Onlays (Indirect)
Custom-fabricated porcelain or ceramic restorations made in a dental laboratory from precise impressions of your tooth. Inlays fit within the cusps of a tooth, while onlays extend over one or more cusps. They are stronger than composite for larger restorations and can last 15 to 20 years.
Glass Ionomer Fillings
A specialised material that releases fluoride, providing ongoing protection against decay. Commonly used for fillings in children’s teeth and for restorations near the gum line.
Composite vs Amalgam Fillings
| Feature | Composite (Tooth-Coloured) | Amalgam (Silver) |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Matches natural tooth colour | Silver/grey — visible |
| Bonding | Bonds to tooth structure | Does not bond (mechanical retention) |
| Tooth preservation | Minimal tooth removal | More tooth structure removed |
| Mercury content | None | Contains approximately 50% mercury (ADA, Dental Amalgam) |
| Thermal expansion | Similar to natural tooth | Expands and contracts more, may crack tooth over time |
| Lifespan | 7-10+ years (ADA) | 10-15 years |
The Australian Dental Association advises that both composite and amalgam fillings are clinically acceptable materials. Townsville clinics use only composite and ceramic materials.
The Filling Process
- Anaesthesia — the tooth and surrounding area are numbed
- Decay removal — damaged tooth structure is carefully removed
- Preparation — the cavity is cleaned and conditioned for bonding
- Layered placement — composite resin is applied in thin layers, with each layer cured (hardened) using a special light
- Shaping and polishing — the filling is shaped to match your natural bite and polished for a smooth finish
The entire process typically takes 30 to 60 minutes per filling.
When to Replace a Filling
See your dentist if you notice:
- Sensitivity or pain around an existing filling
- A rough or sharp edge on the filling
- Visible cracks in the filling or surrounding tooth
- Dark discolouration around the filling margin
- A filling that feels loose
Regular dental check-ups allow us to monitor the condition of your fillings and replace them before problems develop.
Further reading
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Frequently asked questions
How long do tooth-coloured fillings last?
Composite resin fillings typically last 7 to 10 years with proper care, though many last significantly longer ([Australian Dental Association, Fillings](https://www.ada.org.au/Your-Dental-Health/Treatments/Fillings)). Ceramic and porcelain fillings (inlays/onlays) can last 15 to 20 years. Longevity depends on the size and location of the filling and your oral hygiene habits.
Are white fillings as strong as silver amalgam fillings?
Modern composite resin materials have improved significantly and are suitable for most fillings. For large restorations in back teeth under heavy biting forces, ceramic inlays or onlays may be recommended for superior strength and longevity.
Should I replace my old amalgam fillings?
The Australian Dental Association states that existing amalgam fillings that are intact and functioning do not need to be replaced for health reasons. However, we offer amalgam replacement for patients who prefer tooth-coloured restorations for aesthetic reasons or when old fillings are cracked, leaking, or decayed.
Does getting a filling hurt?
The area is numbed with local anaesthesia before the procedure, so you should feel no pain. You may feel some pressure during the filling placement. Any sensitivity after the filling is typically mild and temporary.
How much does a dental filling cost in Australia?
The cost depends on the size and location of the filling and the material used. Composite fillings typically range from $150 to $350 per tooth. Most private health insurance plans with extras cover include partial rebates for fillings.
How much does a dental filling cost in Townsville?
At verified Townsville clinics, composite fillings typically cost $150 to $350 per tooth, depending on the size and location of the filling. We offer HICAPS on-the-spot health fund claiming so your insurance rebate is processed immediately at your appointment.
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