Fillings

A filling repairs a tooth damaged by decay, removing the affected material and rebuilding the tooth with a tooth-coloured composite. We price by tooth and number of surfaces treated, so a small filling costs less than a larger one. Treating decay early, before it spreads, means a smaller filling and a simpler visit.

Dentist and patient discussing a composite filling using a tooth model in a bright treatment room

What it is and who it's for

A filling repairs a tooth after decay has been removed, rebuilding its shape and function with a tooth-coloured composite material. It suits anyone with a cavity found at a check-up, or a tooth that’s become sensitive or visibly damaged. The sooner it’s treated, the smaller the filling needed.

Dentist and patient discussing a composite filling using a tooth model in a bright treatment room

How treatment works

  1. Assessment

    We check the extent of the decay, taking an X-ray if needed to see how far it reaches.

  2. Removing the decay

    The decayed part of the tooth is removed, numbing the area with local anaesthetic first if needed.

  3. Filling and shaping

    The tooth-coloured composite is built up in layers and shaped to match your natural bite.

  4. Polishing

    The finished filling is polished and checked against your bite before you leave.

What you can expect

  • Stops decay spreading further into the tooth
  • Tooth-coloured composite blends in with your natural teeth
  • Usually completed in a single visit, under local anaesthetic if needed
  • Restores the tooth’s shape so you can bite and chew comfortably

Cost & finance

Guide prices for Fillings
Treatment From Member price Notes
Incisor / canine composite — 1 surface £185 £148 Member price is lower. See Membership & Pricing.
Incisor / canine composite — 2 surfaces £225 £180 Member price is lower. See Membership & Pricing.
Incisor / canine composite — 3 surfaces or more £245 £196 Member price is lower. See Membership & Pricing.
Premolar composite — 1 surface £225 £180 Member price is lower. See Membership & Pricing.
Premolar composite — 2 surfaces £245 £196 Member price is lower. See Membership & Pricing.
Premolar composite — 3 surfaces or more £295 £236 Member price is lower. See Membership & Pricing.
Molar composite — 1 surface £225 £180 Member price is lower. See Membership & Pricing.
Molar composite — 2 surfaces £245 £196 Member price is lower. See Membership & Pricing.
Molar composite — 3 surfaces or more £295 £236 Member price is lower. See Membership & Pricing.
Glass ionomer restoration £195 £156 Member price is lower. See Membership & Pricing.

Common questions

Will I need an anaesthetic for a filling?

It depends on the size and location of the filling. Smaller fillings sometimes don’t need one, while larger fillings are usually done under local anaesthetic so the area is numbed before we begin.

How long does a filling last?

A well-placed composite filling can last many years with good oral hygiene and regular check-ups, though how long depends on its size, location and how it’s cared for.

What’s the difference between composite and glass ionomer fillings?

Composite is tooth-coloured and blends in with your natural teeth, while glass ionomer releases fluoride and is sometimes used for fillings closer to the gumline or in areas with less bite pressure.

Can a filling be replaced?

Yes. Fillings can wear down or come loose over time, so we check them at your routine examinations and replace them if needed.

Get it looked at soon

The sooner a cavity is treated, the smaller the filling needed. Book online or call the practice.

Call us Book an appointment