Dental fillings in the UK: options and costs

A chipped tooth, pain when eating or a new dark area should be checked by a dentist. These signs do not all mean that you need a filling: the right treatment depends on what is causing the problem and how much of the tooth is affected.

A filling repairs an area of tooth lost through decay or damage. Very early decay without a cavity may sometimes be managed with preventive care, including fluoride. A more extensively damaged tooth may need a different restoration or treatment of the pulp inside it.

Which filling material is suitable?

Composite is a tooth-coloured material placed directly into the prepared tooth. The dentist shapes it and usually hardens it with a curing light. It can be used in front and back teeth, depending on the clinical situation.

Amalgam is a silver-coloured direct filling material. Whether it is an appropriate option depends on the patient and the treatment setting. A sound existing amalgam filling does not automatically need replacing simply because it contains mercury.

Ceramic or metal inlays and onlays are made to fit a prepared tooth rather than built up entirely in the mouth. An inlay fits within the tooth; an onlay also covers one or more of its cusps. These may be considered where a direct filling is less suitable.

No material is best for every tooth. The remaining tooth structure, bite, moisture control, appearance and cost all matter. A white filling is not automatically short-lived, and a ceramic restoration is not a guarantee against future problems.

What happens during the appointment?

After examining the tooth, the dentist may recommend an X-ray and explain the options. Local anaesthetic is used when needed. Tell the team if you are anxious or feel pain during treatment; they can check the anaesthetic and adjust the approach.

For a direct filling, the dentist prepares the affected area, places the material and checks its shape and how your teeth meet. Indirect restorations involve additional steps, such as an impression or scan. The time and number of visits depend on the tooth and the method used.

Follow the advice about eating while your mouth is numb. Contact the practice if the filling feels too high, pain is persistent or worsening, or the tooth becomes swollen. Treating decay can reduce further damage, but a filling cannot guarantee that a deeply affected tooth will never need root canal treatment.

Private filling fees

Our listed fee for a small composite filling is £150, and for a large composite filling it is £160. See the dental fee page and ask which category applies after examination.

An inlay, onlay, crown or root canal treatment is a different procedure. Ask for a written estimate showing the proposed treatment and any separately charged assessment or X-rays before deciding.

What about NHS treatment?

In England, routine NHS fillings normally fall within Band 2. The charge covers a course of NHS treatment rather than a separate fee for each filling. Arrangements differ elsewhere in the UK, and some patients qualify for help with costs.

Check the current NHS dental charges and confirm availability with the practice providing your NHS care. This explanation does not mean that NHS treatment is available at Medical-Dent.

If you are considering finance, read the current payment information. Approval and terms depend on eligibility and assessment. Contact us to arrange a dental examination.