Dental Fillings Cost on the Sunshine Coast: 2026 Guide
Dental fillings remain one of the most common treatments performed at Sunshine Coast practices. In 2026, a composite resin filling typically costs $150 to $280 per tooth, depending on the size of the cavity and the tooth being treated. Anterior (front) teeth tend to sit toward the lower end of this range, while multi-surface fillings on posterior molars approach the upper end. Amalgam fillings are still available at some practices for $120 to $200 but are now largely replaced by tooth-coloured alternatives.
A standard filling appointment includes examination of the affected tooth, local anaesthetic, removal of decay, cavity preparation, and placement of the restorative material. Some practices bundle a check-up or digital X-ray with the filling visit; others bill these separately at $160 to $300 for the consultation and $30 to $80 per X-ray film. It is worth confirming what is included in the quoted fee before your appointment.
The Sunshine Coast dental market spans a large geographic footprint from Caloundra in the south to Noosa in the north, with the highest density of practices concentrated around Maroochydore, Mooloolaba, Buderim, and Kawana. Pricing is broadly comparable to Brisbane, and noticeably lower than Sydney where a similar filling can reach $350. Patients from Gympie and Cooroy regularly travel south to Sunshine Coast practices, attracted by the availability of same-day appointments and competitive fees.
Typical Dental Filling Costs on the Sunshine Coast
| Item | Typical Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Composite filling (1 surface) | $150 - $190 | Front teeth, small cavities |
| Composite filling (2 surfaces) | $190 - $240 | Common for premolars |
| Composite filling (3+ surfaces) | $240 - $280 | Larger molar restorations |
| Amalgam filling | $120 - $200 | Less common; some practices no longer offer |
| Glass ionomer filling | $130 - $220 | Used near gum line or for temporary restorations |
| Consultation + X-ray (if unbundled) | $160 - $380 | Billed separately at many practices |
Sunshine Coast vs Other Locations
| Location | Composite Filling Cost |
|---|---|
| Sunshine Coast | $150 - $280 |
| Gold Coast | $250 - $400 |
| Brisbane | $160 - $290 |
| Sydney | $350 - $550 |
| Townsville | $120 - $220 |
What Affects the Cost
- Number of surfaces restored: Fillings are billed by surface count. A cavity spanning two or three tooth surfaces increases the item number and fee.
- Tooth position: Molars require longer appointment times due to limited access, which is reflected in higher fees at many practices.
- Material used: Composite resin is now standard, but glass ionomer and high-strength ceramics carry different material costs.
- Practitioner experience and location: Specialist-grade general dentists in high-rent Mooloolaba or Noosa Heads premises tend to charge more than suburban practices in Nambour or Sippy Downs.
- Whether decay is extensive: Deep decay approaching the nerve may require a base or liner before the filling, adding $30 to $80 to the total.
Health Insurance and Payment Options
Private health Extras cover typically includes general dental restorations. Most mid-tier hospital and extras policies provide a rebate of $50 to $150 per filling, though the exact benefit depends on your fund’s schedule and annual limit. Funds such as BUPA, Medibank, HCF, nib, and HBF all have networks of preferred providers across the Sunshine Coast; visiting a preferred provider often reduces your out-of-pocket cost to zero or near zero for basic fillings.
For families without private cover, the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) covers eligible children aged 0 to 17 for up to $1,095 over two years. Adults without insurance may ask practices about interest-free payment plans through providers such as SuperCare or Afterpay; these are widely available across the region and allow the cost to be spread over several months with no additional charge.
Related Sunshine Coast Dental Guides
Frequently asked questions
How much does a dental filling cost on the Sunshine Coast in 2026?
Composite (tooth-coloured) fillings on the Sunshine Coast typically cost $150 to $280 per tooth. The final fee depends on the size of the cavity, the tooth position, and whether the dentist uses a bonding system. Amalgam fillings, now less common, run slightly cheaper at $120 to $200.
Does private health insurance cover dental fillings on the Sunshine Coast?
Yes. Most Extras policies cover basic restorations including fillings under the general dental benefit. Depending on your fund and annual limit, a rebate of $50 to $150 per filling is typical. Check your fund's schedule and whether a waiting period applies for new policies.
What affects the cost of a filling on the Sunshine Coast?
Key factors include cavity size (small, medium, or large, billed by surface count), tooth location (back molars are harder to access and cost more), material choice (composite resin versus glass ionomer), and whether an X-ray or consultation fee is charged at the same visit.
Can children get subsidised fillings on the Sunshine Coast?
Children aged 0 to 17 who hold a Medicare card may be eligible under the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS), which provides up to $1,095 over two consecutive calendar years for basic dental services including fillings. Confirm eligibility with your dentist before booking.
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