Lost a Filling? Urgent Dental Repair near Finchley Central

A lost filling compromises the tooth. The exposed dentine can be sensitive to heat, cold, and pressure, causing sharp pain when you eat or drink. The cavity invites food particles and bacteria, risking decay deeper in the tooth. If left untreated, you could face infection, an abscess, or a crack that requires a crown or root canal. At our Finchley practice we clean the area and seal the tooth promptly. We treat a lost filling as urgent and aim to see you the same day.

When you come in for a lost filling, your comfort and health are the priority. The visit lasts about 30 to 60 minutes. We assess the tooth and may take a digital X-ray to check for underlying decay or cracks. Then we numb the area with a local anaesthetic to keep you comfortable. Next we remove debris and decay from the cavity. Finally we place a new white filling in layers, shape it to match your bite and appearance, and cure it with a special light. We check your bite and leave you with a restored tooth that looks and feels right.

After the filling is placed, the anaesthetic wears off within a few hours. You may have mild sensitivity to hot and cold for a few days. You can eat, but avoid chewing directly on the new filling for 24 hours. Brush and floss as normal. With proper care, a modern composite filling lasts about 7 to 10 years. Red flags call during office hours (Mon/Wed/Fri 9-5, Tue/Thu 11-7): severe pain or a throbbing sensation not relieved by painkillers, pain when biting that lasts more than a week, the filling feeling high or uncomfortable after a few days, or a visible crack in the filling or tooth.

If the remaining tooth structure is too weak for a direct replacement, other good options exist. An inlay or onlay, often made from porcelain, fits into or over the tooth and is more durable than a filling for larger cavities. If the damage is extensive or a cusp has broken off, a dental crown may be the best solution. A crown covers the entire tooth, providing maximum strength and protection. For example, a patient from Finchley Central recently arrived with a lost filling and an X-ray showed a fracture line. We recommended a crown to prevent the tooth from splitting and to protect its long-term health. We will discuss these options with you, explaining the pros and cons so you can choose with confidence.

As a private practice, we provide clear pricing with no hidden fees. The cost depends on the size and complexity of the restoration. A straightforward composite filling replacement starts from around £150. If a more advanced restoration like an inlay or a crown is needed, the cost will be higher, and we will provide a detailed treatment plan and quote after your initial assessment. We accept private dental plans, including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Please tell our reception if you have coverage, and we will assist with the paperwork.

To feel confident about your treatment, here are important questions for any dentist, whether at our Finchley practice or another in London: What material do you recommend for my new filling and why? How long can I expect this restoration to last with good care? Is there a risk that the tooth will need more than a filling? What are the costs if I need a crown or inlay instead? What signs indicate that a filling will need replacement in the future? Do you have any aftercare instructions for me? Choosing what fits you starts with having the information.