The options
- Tooth-coloured composites, commonly known as plastic fillings, consist of a resin-ceramic mixture. They are placed in layers and cured with light, and are suitable for small to medium-sized defects, including in the posterior region. The statutory health insurance covers a basic restoration; for a tooth-coloured multi-layer filling in a posterior tooth, a out-of-pocket amount from 74 € per surface applies.
- Compomers are somewhat softer and are used mainly for milk teeth and on exposed tooth necks.
- Ceramic inlays are suitable for larger defects in the molars. After a scan instead of an impression they are milled in the in-house master laboratory, often fitted on the same day, and are barely visible in the tooth. Out-of-pocket amount 940 €.
- Gold inlays last a very long time but are visible. We make them on request.
- We do not use amalgam. Where necessary, we remove old amalgam fillings under a rubber dam and with suction; more on the page Biological dentistry.
Filling or inlay?
As a rule of thumb: if enough healthy tooth substance remains and the defect is manageable, a filling is sufficient. If a large part of the chewing surface is affected or a cusp tip is missing, an inlay or a partial crown holds better and as a rule protects the tooth from fracture. We show you on the image what makes sense in your case; Johannes Deutloff, employed dentist, explains the difference in the short video at the bottom of this page.
How long does a filling last?
Composite fillings usually last several years depending on size, position and care; ceramic inlays generally last longer. What matters most is brushing, interdental care and regular professional cleaning, during which we check the margins and transitions.
What it costs
Composite filling from 74 € per surface, ceramic inlay 940 €. All amounts with date and notes: What does what cost? The cost plan issued before treatment is binding.
Professionally responsible: Dr. med. dent. M.Sc. Sandro Strößner, dentist, Master of Science in Oral Implantology and Periodontology · Last reviewed: September 2026. These texts provide general information and do not replace an examination.
Video
Briefly explained – from our practice
The videos provide general information and do not replace individual advice; the course and outcome of treatment depend on personal circumstances. All videos have subtitles. More in our media library and on Instagram.
