Dental fillings are one of the most common treatments we do, fixing up teeth that have been damaged by decay or cavities. But there are several different types available and it’s absolutely worth knowing which one’s best for you.
This guide covers everything about dental fillings. The different materials, what they cost, how long they last, and what to expect afterwards.
What is a Dental Filling?
Bacteria in your mouth produces acid. That acid eats away at your tooth enamel and creates a hole (which we call a cavity). Think of it like a small crater in your tooth. Leaving it alone will cause it to get bigger, incur pain & infection, and possibly even tooth loss.
A dental filling sorts this out by removing the decayed part and filling the space with a durable material. This stops the decay spreading and will get your teeth working properly again. We use local anaesthetic so you won’t feel a thing during the procedure.
Types of Dental Fillings
The right filling for you depends on a few things: where the cavity is, your budget, whether you care about it being visible, and how long you need it to last. Here are the main types of fillings for teeth.
Amalgam Fillings (Silver Fillings)
Amalgam fillings have been around for over 150 years. They’re made from mercury, silver, tin and copper mixed together, creating something rather quite strong. These silver-coloured fillings work brilliantly for back tooth cavity filling because they handle the heavy pressure when you chew.
They last 10 to 15 years, often longer if you look after them well. The downside is obvious though. That metallic appearance stands out when you smile or laugh.
Quick note: the European Parliament voted to restrict amalgam use from January 2025. The UK hasn’t actually implemented a formal ban yet though.
Composite Fillings (White Fillings)
Want your filling to blend in with your natural teeth? Composite fillings are your answer. Made from tooth-coloured resin, they’re pretty much invisible once they’re in. They bond straight to your tooth, which strengthens it.
The composite filling cost runs higher than amalgam. They last 5 to 7 years typically. But for front teeth or anywhere visible, they’re perfect. Modern composite materials are way better than they used to be too.
Ceramic Fillings (Porcelain Fillings)
Ceramic fillings give you natural looks and proper durability. Made from porcelain, they resist staining better than composite and can last over 15 years if you maintain good oral hygiene. They’re colour-matched to your teeth, so genuinely nobody will know you’ve had work done.
Cost is the catch. Ceramic fillings are pricier than amalgam and composite.
They can be slightly more brittle too. Small risk of chipping if you bite down on something really hard. Worth knowing, but it’s not a huge concern.
Gold Fillings
Nothing beats gold for durability. Seriously. Gold fillings are made from gold alloy and last 15 to 20 years, sometimes way longer. They don’t corrode, your gums tolerate them well (that’s the biocompatibility bit), and they handle years of chewing without wearing down.
The gold filling cost is steep. You’re paying for the material plus the expertise needed to make them. You’ll need at least two appointments because they’re custom-made in a lab. And yes, they’re noticeable. That distinctive gold colour isn’t subtle.
Glass Ionomer Fillings
Glass ionomer fillings combine acrylic with a special glass. We use them a lot for kids’ teeth or cavities near the gumline. The clever bit is they release fluoride over time, protecting your tooth from more decay.
They’re quick to put in and don’t need as much tooth prep as other types. But they’re not as strong or attractive as composite or ceramic options. This type of filling works best in low-pressure areas.
How Much Do Dental Fillings Cost?
Cost of tooth filling varies based on your material choice and how big the cavity is. Here’s the breakdown:
- Amalgam fillings: £50 to £150 per tooth
- Composite fillings: £90 to £250 per tooth
- Ceramic fillings: £250 to £600 per tooth
- Gold fillings: £500 to £1,000 per tooth
- Glass ionomer fillings: £80 to £200 per tooth
At Smile London, we understand the need for quality dental care to be accessible. Worried about costs? We’ve got flexible payment plans.
Get an interest-free loan sorted in under 5 minutes and start your treatment straight away.
How Long Do Different Types of Tooth Fillings Last?
Your filling’s lifespan depends on the material and how well you care for your teeth. Here’s what to expect from each tooth filling type.
Gold and amalgam are the marathon runners of fillings. Look after them properly and they’ll last 10 to 15 years minimum. Some gold fillings can even go 20 years or more.
Ceramic fillings are similar, often lasting 15 years or longer. Composite fillings need replacing sooner, usually within 5 to 7 years. Glass ionomer fillings have the shortest run at around 5 years.
Don’t stress about these timescales. Regular check-ups mean we catch any problems early.
Your habits matter loads too. Grind your teeth? Clench your jaw? Chew ice? Your fillings will wear faster. Good brushing, regular visits, and being kind to your teeth will help any filling last its full term.
What to Expect During the Dental Filling Procedure
Getting a filling is straightforward. The process usually takes between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the cavity’s size and where it’s located.
We’ll start by numbing the area around your tooth with local anaesthetic. You’ll feel a brief pinch from the needle, then the area goes completely numb. Once you’re comfortable, we remove the decayed portion of your tooth using a dental drill or laser.
After cleaning the cavity thoroughly to remove bacteria and debris, we move on to placing the filling itself.
For amalgam fillings, we pack the material into the cavity and shape it to match your bite. Composite fillings are applied in layers, with each layer hardened using a special blue light. Gold and ceramic fillings require us to take an impression first, which gets sent to a laboratory where your custom filling is created.
Finally, we check your bite and make any necessary adjustments. We’ll polish the filling to ensure it feels smooth and comfortable. The whole procedure is painless, and most patients are genuinely surprised by how quick and comfortable the experience is.
Caring for Your Fillings
Maintaining your fillings doesn’t require anything complicated to be completely honest. As per standard dental hygiene, brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss at least once a day. Quite simply, this removes plaque and bacteria that could cause decay around your filling.
Regular dental check-ups every six months allow us to monitor your fillings and identify any issues before they develop into problems. We know it might be hard, but please try to avoid using your teeth as tools to open packages or crack nuts. Don’t chew on ice, pens, or other hard objects either.
If you are a teeth grinder at night, speak to us about getting a mouthguard. It’ll protect both your fillings and your natural teeth. You should also watch out for warning signs that your filling might need attention.
Sharp edges, persistent sensitivity, pain when biting down, or a feeling that something’s not quite right are all valid reasons to book an appointment. Fillings can occasionally crack or fall out. The sooner we address it, the better the outcome.
Which Type of Filling is Right for You?
There’s actually no universal “best” filling. Depends where your cavity is, your budget, and what matters to you.
Back teeth that handle heavy chewing? Amalgam or gold give you unbeatable durability. Cavity in a visible spot and want it natural-looking? Composite or ceramic are what you need.
Kids often suit glass ionomer fillings. Gentle on young teeth, release protective fluoride. Budget matters, obviously.
Amalgam gives excellent value if looks aren’t your priority. Cost putting you off? We’ve got financing to make treatment affordable. Best bet?
Contact us for a consultation. We’ll check your teeth, chat about what you need, recommend what suits your situation. Every mouth’s different. We’ll sort a treatment plan that actually works for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Fillings
How do I know if I need a filling?
Sometimes you’ll feel pain or sensitivity. Other times? Nothing at all. That’s why check-ups matter.
We spot cavities early, often before you feel anything. Watch for tooth sensitivity, pain when biting, visible holes or dark spots, or food constantly stuck in one spot.
Are dental fillings painful?
No. Getting a filling shouldn’t hurt. We numb the area with local anaesthetic before starting. Might feel pressure or vibration during it, but not pain.
The injection causes brief discomfort. That’s the worst bit. Some people get mild sensitivity for a few days after the numbness wears off. Normal.
Can dental fillings fall out?
Yeah, fillings can fall out. Not common though. Usually happens from new decay round the filling, teeth grinding damage, or just wear over years.
Filling falls out? Don’t panic. Keep it clean, don’t chew on that side, ring us quickly. We’ll get you in to replace it.
What should I do if a filling falls out?
Don’t swallow it if it’s still in your mouth. Rinse with warm salt water, keep the area clean. Temporary dental cement from a pharmacy can cover the hole if you can’t get to us immediately.
Avoid really hot or cold food, don’t chew on that side. Get in touch soon as you can. We’ll book you in. Quicker we replace it, the better.
Can I get teeth whitening with fillings?
Fillings don’t respond to whitening. They’re made from materials that don’t change colour. Planning to whiten? Do it before getting visible fillings. Then we match the filling to your newly whitened teeth.
Already got fillings and want whitening? Your natural teeth will lighten but the fillings stay the same. Might make them stand out more.
Protect Your Smile at Smile London
Dental fillings are vital for maintaining oral health. Stop decay, restore function, and look natural with the right choice.
Want to avoid fillings altogether? Prevention’s key. Regular brushing, flossing, less sugary food and drink, regular check-ups. All helps keep cavities away.
Need a filling though? Modern dentistry’s got effective, comfortable, long-lasting options. At Smile London, we’re here to help you decide what’s best for your dental health.
Dealing with a cavity now or just want more info? Our team’s ready to help. Book your appointment today. Let’s keep your smile healthy and bright for years.
