Dental Fillings

We offer tooth-coloured composite resin fillings as our standard private filling. Unlike traditional amalgam (silver) fillings, composite fillings bond directly to your tooth, require less removal of healthy tooth structure, and match the natural shade of your surrounding teeth. We do not place amalgam fillings for private patients unless specifically requested.

Our private composite filling fees depend on the number of surfaces being filled, such as one, two, or three surfaces. Prices typically range from [Insert Price, e.g., £95 to £195] per filling. This includes local anaesthetic, the filling material, shaping and polishing, and a bite check. We give you a written quote before any treatment begins with no hidden charges.

Yes. We cannot place a filling without first confirming decay or damage via a clinical exam and X-rays. A dental exam allows us to check whether the tooth needs a simple filling, a larger onlay, or root canal treatment. You can book a combined exam and filling appointment by calling our Liverpool reception team.

For a standard single-surface filling, expect around 30 to 45 minutes. Larger or deeper fillings may take 60 minutes. The process involves numbing the area, removing decay, cleaning the cavity, placing the composite resin in layers, hardening each layer with a special light, and finally shaping and polishing the filling so it feels smooth against your tongue.

We use local anaesthetic to completely numb the tooth and surrounding gum before we start. You will feel pressure, vibration, and possibly some cold water sensation, but you should not feel sharp pain. If you feel any discomfort during the procedure, simply raise your hand and we will stop and add more anaesthetic. Most patients say the injection is the only mildly uncomfortable part.

Yes. Many of our private patients in Liverpool choose to replace old, dark, or cracked amalgam fillings for cosmetic reasons. We can safely remove the silver filling and replace it with a natural-looking composite. However, if the tooth has further decay or a crack underneath, a crown or onlay may be more appropriate. We will always advise you honestly.

With good oral hygiene and regular dental exams, composite fillings typically last 5 to 7 years, and some last 10 years or more. Their lifespan depends on the size of the filling, your biting forces, and how well you clean around the filling margin. We check the condition of every filling at your routine dental exam and will alert you when a replacement is needed.

Yes, you can eat as soon as the anaesthetic wears off, which usually takes one to three hours. However, avoid very hot foods and drinks until full sensation returns so you do not accidentally burn your mouth. Unlike amalgam fillings which need time to harden, composite fillings are fully set the moment we finish the light-curing process.

It is common for a new filling to feel slightly different for a day or two. However, if you feel a noticeable bump when biting down or a rough edge that catches your tongue, call our Liverpool practice for a quick adjustment appointment. We will smooth or polish the filling in under five minutes at no extra charge.

Yes. We stand by the quality of our work. If a private composite filling fails due to material or bonding issues within [Insert Time Period, e.g., 12 months], we will replace it at no cost to you. This does not cover failure due to new decay, trauma, or grinding your teeth. We explain all terms clearly before treatment begins.

You can book online via the ‘Book Now’ button, call us at 0151 707 4950, or email patientliaison@duthie.dental. Most new patients require a dental exam first unless you have had a recent X-ray and exam elsewhere. For pain or a broken filling, mention this when booking so we can prioritise an emergency appointment for you.