White Fillings in London: Cost, How They Work & How Long They Last
What Are White (Composite) Fillings?
White fillings are made from composite resin — a blend of plastic and fine glass particles — shade-matched to your natural tooth, applied directly and cured with a blue light. They bond chemically to the tooth structure, meaning less healthy tooth needs to be removed compared to traditional silver fillings.
White Fillings vs Silver (Amalgam) Fillings
| Feature | White (composite) | Silver (amalgam) |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Tooth-coloured, invisible | Dark grey — visible |
| Mercury content | None | Contains mercury alloy |
| Bonded to tooth | Yes | No |
| Typical lifespan | 7–10 years | 10–15 years |
| Available at our clinic | Yes | No |
How Much Do White Fillings Cost?
Our published prices:
- Single surface filling: from £185
- Two-surface filling: from £220
- Three-surface filling: from £260
The exact fee is confirmed after examination — before any work begins.
Step-by-Step: The Filling Appointment
1. Numbing — topical gel then local anaesthetic
2. Decay removal — only the decayed tissue is removed
3. Layered composite placement — each layer cured with light
4. Bite check and polish — completed in a single visit for most fillings
How Long Do White Fillings Last?
Modern composite fillings typically last 7–10 years. Factors affecting lifespan include location, bite forces, grinding, home care and diet. We offer a 12-month replacement warranty against early failure (terms apply).
Can I Replace Old Silver Fillings?
Yes. We assess each silver filling and advise which are worth replacing and which are still serving you well.
Adult Braces London Team
Written by our GDC-registered dental team and verified for accuracy. This article reflects current clinical guidance for adult orthodontic treatment in the UK.
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