Dental Fillings — Types, Costs and What to Expect in Norway

Dental fillings are one of the most routine procedures in dentistry, used to repair teeth damaged by decay or minor fractures. In Norway, modern tooth-coloured materials have completely replaced the old mercury amalgam fillings, giving patients both a healthier and more natural-looking result.

What Are Dental Fillings?

A dental filling is a material used to restore a tooth that has been damaged by a cavity (caries) or minor breakage. The dentist removes the decayed portion of the tooth and fills the space with a durable material that restores the tooth's shape and function.

In Norway, two main types of filling materials are used:

• Composite resin — A tooth-coloured plastic and glass mixture applied directly to the tooth and hardened with an ultraviolet curing light. This is the standard choice for most cavities.
• Ceramic (porcelain) inlay/onlay — A custom-made restoration fabricated in a dental laboratory. It is bonded into the prepared cavity and offers superior durability for larger restorations.

Amalgam removal in Norway

Norway was one of the first countries in the world to ban mercury amalgam in 2008. Many adults still have old amalgam fillings from before the ban. These can be safely removed using a rubber dam and high-volume suction to minimise mercury exposure. The removed amalgam is replaced with composite or ceramic material.

If you have amalgam fillings and wish to have them replaced, most dental clinics in Norway are experienced in safe removal protocols.

What to Expect

1. Examination

The dentist examines the tooth visually and often with an X-ray to determine the extent of the decay. Based on the size and location, they recommend either a direct composite filling or a ceramic inlay.

2. Anaesthesia

Local anaesthesia is administered to numb the area around the affected tooth. For very small, shallow cavities, anaesthesia may not be necessary.

3. Removal of decay

Using a dental drill or laser, the dentist removes the decayed tooth material. The cavity is cleaned and disinfected.

4. Filling placement

• Composite: The material is applied in layers, with each layer hardened using a curing light. The dentist shapes and polishes the filling to match the natural contour of the tooth.
• Ceramic inlay: An impression is taken and sent to a laboratory. A temporary filling protects the tooth for 1-2 weeks until the custom inlay is ready. At the second appointment, the inlay is bonded permanently.

5. Bite check

The dentist checks your bite to ensure the filling is not too high. Minor adjustments are made on the spot.

Benefits

• Preserves natural tooth structure — only the damaged part is removed
• Natural appearance — composite and ceramic fillings match your tooth colour
• Quick treatment — a composite filling can be completed in a single visit
• Mercury-free — Norway uses only biocompatible, non-toxic materials
• Durable — ceramic inlays can last up to 20 years
• Prevents further decay — sealing the cavity stops bacteria from causing more damage

Price Guide

Filling prices in Norway depend on the material used and the size of the restoration. Here are typical prices as of March 2026:

Treatment	Price range (NOK)
Composite filling (1 surface)	800 - 1,500
Composite filling (2-3 surfaces)	1,500 - 2,500
Ceramic inlay/onlay	3,000 - 6,000
Amalgam removal + replacement	1,200 - 3,000

Standard dental fillings are not covered by HELFO for adults. However, children and young people up to age 20 receive free or subsidised treatment through the public dental service (DOT). Adults with certain medical conditions or who are on specific medications may qualify for HELFO support — ask your dentist.

When to See a Dentist

Book an appointment if you notice any of the following:

• Toothache or sharp pain when eating or drinking, especially with sweet, hot or cold items
• Visible holes or dark spots on a tooth surface
• A rough or broken edge you can feel with your tongue
• Food getting stuck repeatedly in the same spot between teeth
• An old filling that feels loose, cracked or has fallen out
• Sensitivity that persists for more than a few seconds after exposure to temperature

Catching a cavity early usually means a smaller, cheaper filling and less discomfort. Regular check-ups are the best way to detect decay before it becomes a bigger problem.