White fillings
A white filling is a natural-looking cosmetic filling treatment that blends in with your tooth. The composite white fillings are used to fix cavities or repair any damage.
Glass ionomer filling
A glass ionomer filling is a natural tooth-coloured material made from silicate glass powder that bonds directly to the tooth and gradually releases fluoride to help protect against decay.
- Natural looking finish
- Fluoride release over time
- Minimal removal of tooth structure
What are glass ionomer fillings
Glass ionomer fillings are a great option for those prone to a higher risk of enamel wear and tooth decay. The release of fluoride over time, which helps strengthen your teeth and prevent further decay. They can also be used by those who want a natural-looking finish; however, glass ionomer fillings are not usually recommended for biting surfaces as they are less durable under pressure.
How glass ionomer fillings are done
The process is similar to a standard filling — the tooth is thoroughly cleaned and dried before the glass ionomer filling material is placed and set. After the procedure, soft foods are recommended, and regular follow-ups may be advised to monitor the filling.
How long do glass ionomer fillings take?
A glass ionomer filling can take up to an hour, however the setting process can take about 24 hours afterwards.
How much does a glass ionomer fillings cost?
A glass ionomer filling can cost between from £80-£150
How long do glass ionomer fillings last?
Typically, glass ionomer fillings last around 6 to 18 months in high-bite areas, which is a shorter lifespan compared to other types such as white composite fillings or ceramic fillings.
Advantages of glass ionomer fillings
One of the main benefits of a glass ionomer filling is the release of fluoride over time, which is great for anyone with a higher risk of decay or weakened enamel.
It also needs very little tooth removal and is quick and easy to place.
Our glass ionomer filling cost
At Pure Dental, every patient is treated as an individual, and the cost of glass ionomer fillings can vary depending on the size and location of the cavity.
A glass ionomer filling typically costs between £80-£150.
We understand that dental care is a personal investment, which is why we offer a range of flexible payment options.
*Specific, individual quotes will be provided (in writing) after you have had a full dental consultation carried out by one of our dentists
Explore our other filling treatments
Ceramic fillings
A ceramic filling is a dental restoration used to repair teeth damaged by decay, cavities or trauma. Made from ceramic materials and are customised to match you natural tooth colour.
Book a filling treatment
A tooth filling is one of the most common (and effective) treatments for repairing damaged or decayed teeth. Here at Pure Dental, we provide durable, natural-looking tooth fillings and composite restorations
Our dental care team
Mark Durnall
DentistMark moved to Cornwall with his wife Stella in January 2008 so that they could raise their young family in one of the most beautiful areas of the country. He cycled from Lands’ End to John O’Groats in 2009 for MNDA and has not been on a bike since! You are more likely to find him on a golf course or spending time with his family. Mark has always said that Dentistry is his hobby, he loves his job! He is passionate about dentistry and hopes that this shows in his work. He is continually pushing himself to advance his skills and keep up with the latest technologies, as you can read below. Mark believes that trust is the cornerstone to building relationships with his clients and he uses digital imagery, 3D CBCT scans and bespoke models to help build this trust quickly. He invests heavily into his practice with the latest technology so that patients can benefit from the best care possible. This ranges from the latest 3D CBCT scanner, and intra-oral scanner to providing up-to date sterilisation equipment. Mark also takes pride in creating a relaxed environment for his patients care, which is evident at Pure.
Alan Burgin
DentistAlan graduated with Honours from Cardiff University in 2012. He then went on to work at Newport Gwent Hospital as a Senior House Officer in the Maxillofacial Department. As one of the busiest maxillofacial centres in the UK, this role provided Alan with a wealth of experience in delivering complex surgical procedures and advanced dental care. It laid a strong foundation for his surgical skills and clinical knowledge, shaping the high standard of care he offers today.
Graham Campbell
DentistGraham is a dentist with a special interest in Endodontics (root canal treatment). He completed his Postgraduate Diploma in Endodontics at King’s College London with Distinction in 2020. He furthered his training by completing an MSc in Endodontology at the University of Chester in 2022.
Mike Bassett-Cross
DentistMike qualified at University College London in 1991. He became an associate in Northamptonshire and then Bristol, before settling in Wiltshire. In 1996 he opened Eastgate House Dental Practice in Malmesbury and over several years built it, on reputation, into a very busy and successful practice. During this time he also expanded his skills by spending two years as a clinical assistant in Oral Surgery at Frenchay Hospital Bristol. Subsequently, for ten years, he held a clinical assistant post in Orthodontics at Great Western Hospital Swindon.
Michelle Hickey
DentistMichelle graduated with an honours degree in Dental Surgery from U.C.C, Ireland. She furthered her experience in oral and maxillofacial surgery as a senior house officer in Peterborough and Glasgow Hospitals. Since then she has worked exclusively in private dentistry, both here in the UK and Switzerland.
Conor O’Kane
DentistConor's journey in dentistry began at the prestigious University of Sheffield in 2012. After completing his dental foundation training in Newport, Wales, he chose to remain in South Wales as a dental associate, immersing himself in the needs of high-need patients.
Martyna Polus
DentistPassionate about all aspects of dentistry, Martyna is particularly committed to supporting anxious patients. She focuses on building trust and alleviating dental fears to create a positive and reassuring treatment experience.
Glass ionomer filling FAQs
A glass ionomer filling is a natural tooth-coloured material made from silicate glass powder that bonds directly to the tooth and gradually releases fluoride to help protect against decay.
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