Lost a Filling in West Finchley? Get It Fixed Today

If you've lost a filling, take the right steps before you can see a dentist. First, call our practice on 0203 488 0335 to schedule an urgent appointment. Keep the filling if you can, as it might help us understand why it came out. Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water to clean the area and remove any food debris. Avoid chewing on the affected side of your mouth to prevent damaging the weakened tooth. If you're experiencing pain, you can take over‑the‑counter painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen, following the packet instructions. You can buy temporary dental cement from a pharmacy to cover the cavity, but this is only a very short-term solution until your appointment.

Your appointment will typically last between 30 and 60 minutes. First, we'll assess the tooth to understand why the filling was lost and check for any underlying decay or damage. We may take a digital X-ray to get a clear view of the tooth's structure. Next, we'll clean out the cavity to remove any bacteria or debris. If the tooth is healthy, we'll place a new filling. We offer tooth-coloured composite fillings for a natural look. The area will be numbed with a local anaesthetic, so you won't feel any pain during the procedure. For example, a patient from West Finchley recently came in with a lost molar filling. An X-ray showed the tooth was sound, so we replaced it with a durable composite filling in a single 45-minute visit. He was able to return to work immediately afterwards.

After your new filling is placed, the local anaesthetic will wear off within a few hours. You might experience some mild sensitivity to hot or cold for a few days, which is completely normal. Continue to avoid chewing on that side until the numbness has completely gone to prevent accidentally biting your cheek or tongue. You can manage any minor discomfort with standard painkillers. It's important to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing regularly to prolong the life of your new filling. If you experience severe pain, a sharp edge, or your bite feels uneven after 24 hours, call us during office hours (Mon/Wed/Fri 9-5, Tue/Thu 11-7). For any severe dental emergencies outside these hours, such as uncontrolled bleeding or facial swelling, you should call 111 or visit your nearest A&E.

Sometimes, a lost filling reveals a more significant problem. If the tooth has fractured or there is extensive decay, a simple filling may not be strong enough. In these cases, we have alternatives. A dental inlay or onlay is a custom-made restoration that fits into the tooth like a puzzle piece, offering more strength than a standard filling. If the damage is severe, a dental crown may be the best option. A crown covers the entire tooth, providing maximum protection and restoring its shape and function. For instance, a patient's lost filling showed a large crack running down the tooth. We recommended a porcelain crown, which was fitted over two appointments and restored the tooth's integrity for the long term. We'll always discuss all suitable options, their costs, and benefits with you during your consultation.

To make an informed choice about your treatment, whether you consult with us or another practice in North London, here are some key questions to ask. Why do you think my filling fell out? What type of replacement filling material do you recommend and why? What is the total cost for the assessment and the new filling? Are there any alternatives if the tooth is too damaged for a simple filling? How long can I expect the new filling to last with proper care? Does the quoted fee include any necessary X-rays?

We believe in transparent pricing with no hidden fees. The cost to replace a lost filling depends on the size and the material used, but typically ranges from £95 to £250 for a tooth-coloured composite filling. Your initial emergency assessment fee will be clearly explained when you book. If more advanced treatment like a crown is needed, we will provide a detailed treatment plan and cost breakdown before proceeding. As a private practice, we do not offer NHS treatment. However, we accept several private dental insurance plans, including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Please let our team know if you have coverage when you book your appointment.