Your Guide to White Fillings
Find out what white (composite) fillings are, how they compare with older metal fillings, and what to expect during and after treatment.
What is a white filling?
A white filling repairs a tooth damaged by decay, a crack or a chip. It is also called a composite or tooth-coloured filling. It is made of resin mixed with tiny bits of glass. It can be closely matched to the colour of your tooth.
White fillings are the most common type of filling in the UK today. They stick (bond) straight to the tooth. In many cases, this means less healthy tooth needs to be removed than for older metal (amalgam) fillings.
Why might I need a filling?
You may need a filling when:
- Tooth decay (a hole, or cavity) has damaged part of the tooth and must be removed
- A tooth has chipped or broken
- An old filling has broken down or is leaking and needs replacing
- The tooth surface is worn from grinding or acid (erosion) and needs repairing
Decay that is not treated grows bigger over time. In the end it may reach the nerve of the tooth. This can cause pain. You may then need root canal treatment, or the tooth may need to come out. Treating decay early is nearly always simpler and cheaper.
What happens during treatment?
Having a white filling is simple:
- Numbing — your tooth is numbed with an injection (local anaesthetic). The area will feel numb for 1–3 hours afterwards.
- Removing decay — the decay or damaged part is removed with a small drill. You will feel pressure and shaking (vibration), but not pain.
- Preparing the tooth — the tooth is cleaned and treated so the filling sticks well.
- Placing the filling — the filling goes in layers. Each layer is hardened with a special light.
- Shaping and polishing — the filling is trimmed to fit your bite exactly. Then it is polished smooth.
A normal filling visit takes 30–60 minutes. Bigger or more complex fillings may take longer.
Risks and possible complications
Common:
- The tooth feels sensitive to hot, cold and sweet things for a few days to a few weeks. This usually settles. Sensitivity toothpaste can help.
- Slight pain when biting if the filling is a little high. This is easily fixed at a review visit.
Uncommon:
- If the decay was very deep and close to the nerve, the nerve may become inflamed (pulp inflammation). The tooth may then need root canal treatment, even after the filling. Your dental team will talk to you about this before treatment if it applies to your tooth.
- The filling may break or come loose over time. This is more likely with large fillings under heavy biting.
Rare:
- An allergic reaction to the filling materials (very uncommon)
For very large fillings in back teeth, white fillings can be less hard-wearing than amalgam. Your dental team will advise on the best option for you.
How long do white fillings last?
With good care, white fillings usually last 7–10 years. Many last longer. Things that affect how long they last:
- The size and place of the filling. Large fillings in back teeth are under more stress.
- Grinding your teeth. This puts heavy force on fillings and can make them break.
- Diet and cleaning. Sugar and plaque around the edges of a filling cause new decay.
Questions to ask your dental team
- How big is the hole, and how deep does the decay go?
- Is there any risk this tooth might need root canal treatment?
- Would an inlay or onlay suit me better than a normal filling?
- How can I stop getting another hole in this area?
This leaflet is for general information only and does not replace professional dental advice. It is intended to support — not replace — the discussion with your dental team about your individual options, risks, and treatment plan. Treatment outcomes vary between patients depending on individual circumstances. Your dental team will confirm exact fees and what is suitable for your specific circumstances before you agree to any treatment.
Sources
- White fillings. Oral Health Foundation.
- Different filling materials. Oral Health Foundation.
- Dental treatments. NHS website (nhs.uk), reviewed July 2026.
Links checked 18 October 2026.
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Related leaflets
For clinicians: Composite Filling notes template.
Learn more about dental documentation on our blog or see Nosht pricing.