An emergency filling repairs a tooth that has decayed, broken down or lost an existing filling, sealing the tooth, protecting the nerve and stopping the pain. Our emergency dentist in Daventry offers same-day appointments where clinically appropriate, so a painful tooth can usually be made comfortable at your first visit.
Need urgent help? Call 01327 577023 or request an appointment. Emergency appointments in Daventry from £65 — see our fees.
When you might need an emergency filling
- A filling has fallen out, leaving a hole or a sharp edge
- Sharp pain or sensitivity to cold, hot or sweet things
- Food repeatedly packing into a cavity
- A visible hole, dark spot or crumbling area on a tooth
- Pain when biting on a particular tooth
- A tooth that has broken away around an old filling
What happens at the appointment
The dentist will examine the tooth and take an X-ray if needed to check how deep the decay goes and whether the nerve is involved. The area is numbed with local anaesthetic, the decay is removed, and the cavity is cleaned and filled. Tooth-coloured composite fillings are used routinely and bond well to the remaining tooth. Where a tooth is too broken down for a straightforward filling, a temporary restoration can be placed to settle things down, and the longer-term options — such as a crown, root canal treatment or extraction — are discussed with you.
Why a lost filling should not be left
An unfilled cavity does not stay the same. The exposed inner layers of the tooth decay faster, the walls of the tooth weaken and can fracture, and bacteria can reach the nerve, which leads to root canal treatment or a dental abscess. A simple filling now is nearly always quicker, cheaper and less uncomfortable than the alternative later.
Temporary measures while you wait
A temporary filling material from a pharmacy can protect the cavity for a day or two. Avoid chewing on that side, keep the area clean, and take over-the-counter pain relief as directed. Temporary materials are a stop-gap only — they are not designed to last and should be replaced properly as soon as possible.
We help patients across Daventry, Long Buckby, Crick, Braunston, Weedon Bec, Kilsby, Norton, Badby, Staverton and the wider NN11 area.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get a filling on the same day in Daventry?
In most cases yes. If you are seen for an emergency appointment and the tooth is suitable, the decay can be removed and a filling placed in the same visit.
What happens if I leave a lost filling?
The exposed tooth decays more quickly, can fracture, and bacteria can reach the nerve. What would have been a simple filling can turn into root canal treatment, a crown, or an extraction.
Does having a filling hurt?
The tooth is numbed with local anaesthetic first, so the procedure itself should not be painful. You may feel some pressure and vibration. Mild sensitivity for a few days afterwards is normal.
How much does an emergency filling cost?
The emergency appointment starts from £65 and covers assessment, X-rays where needed and immediate pain relief. The cost of the filling itself depends on the size and material and is quoted clearly before treatment starts.
Can a pharmacy temporary filling be left in place?
No. Temporary filling kits are only meant to protect the tooth for a day or two until you can be seen. They wear away quickly and do not stop decay underneath.
Need urgent help? Call 01327 577023 or request an appointment. Emergency appointments in Daventry from £65 — see our fees.
