Tooth Filling Cost Singapore: 3 Best Dental Clinics Compared (2026)
A small cavity rarely feels urgent. Then a cold drink starts to sting, and you find yourself searching for the tooth filling cost Singapore clinics actually charge. The answer is not a single number. A simple silver filling at a heartland clinic can start around S$50, while a tooth-coloured filling at a private practice can run past S$250.
Singaporeans look this up for good reasons. Many insurance plans do not cover routine dental work, MediSave does not pay for fillings, and clinic price lists are not always easy to compare. Many people also wonder whether a polyclinic, a CHAS clinic or a private dentist makes more sense for tooth cavity treatment.
This guide explains dental filling price ranges by material, introduces three clinics worth considering, and shows how we chose them. It also covers CHAS and MediSave, plus practical tips for finding an affordable dentist in Singapore. Fees come from published schedules and clinic websites reviewed in October 2026. They can change, so confirm before you book.
Tooth Filling Cost Singapore Patients Can Expect by Material
Published 2026 price guides put a simple filling at a private Singapore clinic at roughly S$98 to S$273 including GST. Heartland and CHAS-participating clinics are often lower, and MOH fee benchmarks for common procedures list a simple filling at about S$65 to S$160. In short, the tooth filling cost Singapore patients pay depends on four things: material, cavity size, clinic type and subsidy eligibility.
| Filling Type | Typical Price Per Tooth | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Amalgam (silver) | S$50 to S$150 | Strong and economical, often used for back teeth |
| Composite (tooth-coloured) | S$90 to S$300 | Matches natural tooth colour, so white tooth filling price is higher |
| Glass ionomer | S$50 to S$220 | Releases fluoride, often used near the gum line |
| Ceramic | S$250 to S$500 | Resists staining, higher upfront cost |
| Gold | S$250 to S$600 | Very durable, highest cost |
These ranges come from Nuffield Dental’s published price guide. Other clinics will differ.
Cavity size matters because a larger cavity needs more material and chair time. Teeth that are hard to reach can also push the bill up. In the amalgam vs composite filling debate, amalgam wins on price and strength, while composite wins on looks. If the tooth shows when you smile, most patients choose composite, and the composite filling cost Singapore clinics quote is usually worth asking about upfront.
Subsidies can help. CHAS cardholders may receive a subsidy for fillings at participating clinics, and subsidies for 10 preventive procedures, including fillings, were extended to CHAS Orange cardholders. MediSave dental claims are a different story. MediSave covers surgical procedures such as wisdom tooth surgery and implants, but not fillings. Public polyclinics offer the lowest rates for eligible patients, though dentist fees Singapore residents pay there depend on residency status.
Best Clinics for Tooth Filling in Singapore
The table below compares our three picks at a glance. Rankings reflect our editorial view of price clarity, accessibility and patient experience, not paid placement.
| Rank | Business | Best For | Experience | Location | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | NTUC Health Denticare | Budget-friendly fillings in heartland areas | Since 1971 | Islandwide, including Ang Mo Kio, Tampines, Jurong Point, Woodlands | ntuchealth.sg/denticare |
| 2 | Nuffield Dental | Extended hours and wide choice of materials | Group established 2014 | Islandwide, including Holland Village, Novena, Raffles Place, Kovan | nuffielddental.com.sg |
| 3 | SingHealth Polyclinics | Lowest subsidised rates for citizens and PRs | Public healthcare provider | Bedok, Eunos, Pasir Ris, Punggol, Tampines | polyclinic.singhealth.com.sg |
Quick Summary Table
| Business | Why We Recommend It |
|---|---|
| NTUC Health Denticare | Published filling fees start low, and clinics sit close to HDB estates |
| Nuffield Dental | Long opening hours, emergency access and a public price guide by material |
| SingHealth Polyclinics | Government-subsidised fees, ideal if you can wait for an appointment |
NTUC Health Denticare
Why We Ranked It
NTUC Health Denticare ranks first because its published fees are among the lowest we found for private-sector fillings, and its fee list is easy to read. Amalgam fillings are listed from S$50 and tooth-coloured composite fillings from S$56. For families comparing tooth filling cost Singapore options on a budget, that clarity counts for a lot.
Overview
NTUC Denticare opened in 1971 to make dental care accessible to workers and their families. It is now part of NTUC Health and runs more than a dozen clinics across the island, including Ang Mo Kio, Tampines, Clementi, Woodlands and Jurong Point.
Why We Selected Them
We looked for a provider with a long track record, predictable pricing and a footprint close to where people live. NTUC Health Denticare fits all three. Some listings also note free consultations for CHAS Blue and Pioneer Generation cardholders, which is worth confirming at your branch.
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Business Name | NTUC Health Denticare |
| Website | ntuchealth.sg/denticare |
| Phone | Listed per clinic on the website |
| Location | Multiple HDB-estate and mall branches islandwide |
| Experience | Operating since 1971 |
| Specialization | General and preventive dentistry |
| Best For | Budget-conscious patients and families |
Key Services
- Dental check-ups and consultations.
- Scaling and polishing.
- Amalgam and tooth-coloured fillings.
- Simple extractions.
- Selected branches with dentists trained in orthodontics and implants.
Highlights
- Composite fillings listed from S$56 and amalgam from S$50.
- Branches in major town centres and shopping malls.
- Published fee list on its website.
- Members’ rates for NTUC Link cardholders on basic services.
Pros
- Lower fees than most private groups.
- Convenient heartland locations.
- Long operating history.
- Clear information on CHAS and member benefits.
Best For
Patients who want straightforward fillings at a fair price, especially those living near a heartland branch. Note that hours differ by clinic. Harbourfront, for example, closes early on weekdays, so check before you go.
Nuffield Dental
Why We Ranked It
Nuffield Dental takes second place because it pairs reasonable pricing with convenience. Its price guide lists fillings by material, so you can see where the tooth filling cost Singapore patients face at a private group clinic sits before you book. Prices are higher than NTUC, but the access is better for busy schedules.
Overview
Nuffield Dental is a multi-disciplinary private group with clinics in neighbourhoods such as Holland Village, Siglap, Bedok, Kovan, Serangoon Gardens, Novena and Raffles Place. Several branches open until 9pm on weekdays, and the group advertises emergency care every day of the year.
Why We Selected Them
Working adults often cannot visit a dentist at 10am on a Tuesday. Nuffield’s evening and weekend hours solve that problem. Its published ranges also cover amalgam, composite, glass ionomer, ceramic and gold, so patients can compare materials instead of guessing.
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Business Name | Nuffield Dental |
| Website | nuffielddental.com.sg |
| Phone | +65 6833 4353 |
| Location | Multiple clinics across Singapore |
| Experience | Group established in 2014 |
| Specialization | General, cosmetic and emergency dentistry |
| Best For | Patients wanting flexible hours and material choice |
Key Services
- General dentistry and fillings.
- Emergency dental care.
- Crowns, bridges and dentures.
- Dental implants and wisdom tooth surgery.
- Children’s and cosmetic dentistry.
Highlights
- Composite fillings listed from S$90 to S$300.
- Glass ionomer fillings listed from S$50 to S$220.
- Evening and weekend appointments at selected branches.
- Price guide stating that fees are subject to GST.
Pros
- Wide range of filling materials.
- Long opening hours.
- Many locations in residential and business districts.
- Emergency access.
Best For
Professionals and parents who need after-work appointments and want to choose between several filling materials. Expect to pay more than at a heartland clinic.
SingHealth Polyclinics
Why We Ranked It
SingHealth Polyclinics ranks third only because access is limited, not because of quality or cost. For eligible patients, it is the cheapest route to a filling, and the tooth filling cost Singapore residents see on a polyclinic bill is well below private rates.
Overview
SingHealth Polyclinics provides subsidised dental services at five sites: Bedok, Eunos, Pasir Ris, Punggol and Tampines. Services include examinations, scaling, polishing and fillings, with tooth-coloured and amalgam options listed on its fee page.
Why We Selected Them
Subsidised fees apply to Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents, with PRs paying more than citizens and foreigners paying close to full cost. For patients with tight budgets, that subsidy matters more than a short waiting list.
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Business Name | SingHealth Polyclinics |
| Website | polyclinic.singhealth.com.sg |
| Phone | 6643 6969 (urgent and emergency dental enquiries) |
| Location | Bedok, Eunos, Pasir Ris, Punggol, Tampines |
| Experience | Public healthcare provider under SingHealth |
| Specialization | Subsidised primary dental care |
| Best For | Citizens and PRs who can plan ahead |
Key Services
- Dental examination and diagnosis.
- Scaling and polishing.
- Amalgam and tooth-coloured fillings.
- Emergency walk-in dental care.
- Referral to the National Dental Centre for complex cases.
Highlights
- Government-subsidised fees by residency status.
- Online appointment booking.
- MediSave payment option for eligible services.
- Priority handling of emergency cases.
Pros
- Lowest fees for eligible patients.
- Public sector oversight.
- Clear published charges.
- Referral path for complex treatment.
Best For
Singapore Citizens and PRs with non-urgent cavities who can wait for an appointment. Slots are often booked months ahead, so call the emergency line if you are in pain.
How We Selected These Businesses
We began with the questions most patients ask about tooth filling cost Singapore clinics charge: what will it cost, how fast can I be seen, and can I trust the clinic? We then reviewed published fee schedules, clinic websites, location pages and public reporting. The point was to cover public, heartland and private options so that different budgets are represented. We did not accept payment for placement.
| Evaluation Factor | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Reputation | A clinic’s standing shows how it treats patients over time |
| Reviews | Public feedback reveals patterns in waiting time and communication |
| Experience | Years of operation suggest stable systems and trained staff |
| Service Quality | Clear explanations and gentle technique reduce anxiety and repeat visits |
| Market Presence | Many branches make follow-ups and emergencies easier |
| Customer Feedback | Comments on billing and aftercare show whether prices match expectations |
| Industry Expertise | Qualified dentists and recognised accreditation support safe care |
| Reliability | Consistent hours and transparent fees prevent surprises |
Comparison by Key Features
| Feature | NTUC Health Denticare | Nuffield Dental | SingHealth Polyclinics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Affordability | Very Good | Good | Excellent |
| Price Transparency | Excellent | Very Good | Excellent |
| Appointment Availability | Very Good | Excellent | Good |
| Filling Material Options | Very Good | Excellent | Good |
| Opening Hours | Good | Excellent | Good |
| Branch Coverage | Excellent | Very Good | Good |
| Emergency Access | Good | Excellent | Good |
How to Choose the Right Dentist for Your Tooth Filling
Pricing
Ask for a written estimate that lists the material, number of surfaces and any X-ray or consumable fees. When comparing tooth filling cost Singapore quotes, check whether GST is included, because it can change the total. Cheap is not always better, but unclear pricing is a warning sign.
Experience
Look at how long the clinic has operated and the qualifications listed for its dentists. When tooth filling cost Singapore patients pay is similar across two clinics, experience is often the deciding factor, because experienced dentists can often save more of your natural tooth.
Reviews
Read recent reviews across several platforms. Pay attention to comments about pain management, billing honesty and follow-up care rather than star averages alone.
Customer Support
A good clinic answers questions before treatment and explains aftercare clearly. Check how easily you can reach the front desk by phone or message.
Location
A branch near home or work makes follow-up visits easier. This matters if you need more than one session or a repair later.
Specialization
Most fillings are routine, but complex cavities, anxious children or large repairs may call for a specialist or a clinic with broader services.
Service Quality
Notice how the dentist explains options. A good one will outline amalgam vs composite filling, the cost difference and how long each should last, without pushing upgrades.
Industry Reputation
Confirm registration with the Singapore Dental Council and check whether the clinic is a CHAS participant. Public sector providers are another dependable route.
Benefits of Choosing a Professional Dentist for Tooth Filling
Stops Decay Before It Spreads
A properly placed filling seals the cavity and protects the nerve. Delaying treatment can turn a small repair into a root canal, and tooth filling cost Singapore patients pay today is usually far lower than later procedures. Root canals at private clinics can cost from about S$500 to S$1,500, and crowns can exceed S$1,200.
Better Material Matching
A dentist can recommend the right material for the tooth. Back molars that handle heavy chewing may suit amalgam, while a visible front tooth often looks better with composite.
Comfort and Safety
Professional care includes local anaesthetic, sterile equipment and a bite check, so the filling feels natural and does not leave a high spot.
Clear Aftercare
You will know what to avoid in the first few hours, when sensitivity is normal and when to return. That guidance helps the filling last longer.
FAQs: Tooth Filling Cost Singapore
How much is tooth filling cost Singapore residents should budget?
Most patients should budget about S$50 to S$150 at heartland clinics and roughly S$100 to S$300 at private clinics, depending on the material and cavity size. Polyclinic fees for eligible citizens are lower. GST, X-rays and consumables may be added, so ask for a full written estimate before treatment begins.
Can I use MediSave for a tooth filling?
No. MediSave dental claims apply to surgical procedures such as wisdom tooth surgery and certain implant work, not routine fillings. For fillings, look at CHAS subsidies at participating clinics or polyclinic rates if you are eligible. Check the CPF website for current MediSave rules before relying on any claim.
Is composite or amalgam better?
Neither is better in every case. Amalgam is stronger and cheaper, which suits back teeth. Composite blends with natural colour and bonds closely to the tooth, so it suits visible areas. Your dentist will decide based on cavity size, location and your budget.
How long does a filling last?
It depends on the material, the size of the repair and how well you look after your teeth. Amalgam commonly lasts longer than composite, and ceramic and gold can last the longest. Regular brushing, flossing and check-ups help any filling last as long as possible.
Are polyclinics cheaper than private clinics?
Yes, for eligible Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents. Subsidised fees are lower than private rates, though PRs pay more than citizens. The trade-off is waiting time, as routine appointments can be booked months ahead. For pain or swelling, call the polyclinic emergency line or visit a private clinic.
Does getting a filling hurt?
Most patients feel pressure rather than pain. The dentist numbs the area with local anaesthetic before removing decay, and the numbness fades within a few hours. Some mild sensitivity to hot or cold can follow. If pain lasts beyond a few days or your bite feels uneven, return to the clinic.
Conclusion
Filling a cavity is one of the most common dental treatments, yet price confusion stops many people from acting early. The main takeaway is that the tooth filling cost Singapore patients pay is shaped by material, cavity size, clinic type and subsidy eligibility. Delaying usually costs more, so book a check-up when you notice sensitivity.
Among the options we reviewed, NTUC Health Denticare stands out for affordable, clearly published fees across many neighbourhoods. Nuffield Dental suits patients who value extended hours, emergency access and a choice of materials. SingHealth Polyclinics remains the most economical path for eligible citizens and PRs who can plan around appointment availability.
Whichever route you choose, ask for a written estimate, confirm GST and consumables, and check whether CHAS applies. If you are unsure where to start, call two or three clinics from this list and compare their quotes before deciding.
