Lost Filling or Crown London
Exposed nerves can be agonising. We replace lost fillings with high-quality white fillings or re-cement crowns quickly to stop sensitivity and protect the tooth structure. Fillings from From £92.50 for members.
Emergency exam £30 (new patients). Written plan before any work begins.
Replacement Prices
White Filling Replacement
From £92.50
member
From £185 non-member
Crown Re-cementing
If crown is intact
From £50
From £100 non-member
New Crown
If crown is damaged
From £347.50
From £695 non-member
Emergency Exam (new patient)
Usually £95
£30
- Same-day filling replacement where possible
- Colour-matched composite material
- Crown re-cementing or replacement
- Written treatment plan with costs
- No hidden fees
Lost filling or crown: what you need to know
A lost filling or crown is a common dental emergency that should be addressed promptly. Once the protective restoration is gone, the underlying tooth structure is exposed to bacteria, temperature changes, and biting forces — all of which can lead to further damage, sensitivity, and infection.
Why fillings and crowns fall out
- Decay under the restoration — new decay forms at the margin, undermining the bond
- Wear and ageing — filling materials deteriorate over time, typically after 5–15 years
- Teeth grinding (bruxism) — excessive forces loosen and fracture restorations
- Trauma or hard foods — biting on something unexpectedly hard can dislodge a filling
- Adhesive failure — the cement holding a crown in place may weaken over time
- Tooth fracture — the remaining tooth structure breaks around the restoration
Treatment options
Your dentist will assess the tooth and recommend the most appropriate option:
- New composite filling (from £92.50 member) — for fillings that have fallen out or broken. Tooth-coloured, completed in one visit
- Crown re-cementing (from £50 member) — if your existing crown is intact and the tooth beneath is healthy, it can be bonded back in place
- New crown (from £347.50 member) — if the crown is damaged or the tooth has deteriorated, a new custom crown is made
- Root canal treatment — if the exposed tooth has become infected or the nerve is damaged
- Onlay or inlay — for medium-sized cavities where a filling may be insufficient but a full crown is not needed
What to do while waiting for your appointment
- If a crown has come off, keep it safe and clean — bring it to your appointment
- Rinse the area with warm salt water after meals
- Temporary filling material from a pharmacy can cover the exposed area
- Avoid chewing on the affected side
- Over-the-counter painkillers for discomfort (follow packet instructions)
- Do not use household glue to re-attach a crown
Risks and considerations
Delaying replacement of a lost filling or crown can lead to: further decay of the exposed tooth, tooth fracture, nerve damage requiring root canal treatment, and ultimately tooth loss. Even if the tooth is not currently painful, the underlying structure is vulnerable. Treatment risks include: post-treatment sensitivity (usually temporary), the possibility that a larger restoration or crown is needed, and in some cases the tooth may not be restorable if decay is extensive.
Cost comparison
Starting prices. Final cost depends on assessment. Members save 50%. Full fee schedule.
Our Emergency Dentists
GDC-registered dentists. Verify on the GDC register.
Dr Yasha Y Shirazi
Principal Dentist & Clinical Director
GDC No: 195843
Dr Kamran Yazdi
Dentist — MSc Conservative Dentistry, UCL Eastman
GDC No: 197926
Dr Andreia Phipps
Dentist — Cosmetic & General Practice
GDC No: 229601
Dr Narges Ameri
Dentist — Implant & Restorative Dentistry
GDC No: 214396
Dr Reza Davari
Dentist — London Gold Medal Recipient
GDC No: 302422
GDC Standards
GDC-registered dentists following informed consent and transparent pricing standards.
CQC Compliance
CQC-registered clinic meeting fundamental standards for safety and care.
ASA / CAP Advertising
All pricing accurate, verifiable, and ASA/CAP compliant.
Lost Filling & Crown FAQs
How much does it cost to replace a lost filling?
A white (composite) filling replacement starts from £92.50 for SPMD members (from £185 standard). The emergency exam costs £95 (£47.50 for members, £30 for new patients). Costs depend on the size and location of the filling. You receive a written treatment plan with exact costs before work begins.
Can a lost crown be re-cemented?
If your crown is intact and the underlying tooth is healthy, re-cementing is often possible. This typically costs from £50 for members (£100 standard). If the crown is damaged or the tooth has decayed, a new crown may be needed (from £347.50 for members). Bring your crown to the appointment if you still have it.
Is a lost filling a dental emergency?
A lost filling should be seen promptly, ideally within 24-48 hours. The exposed tooth is vulnerable to further decay, sensitivity, and fracture. While not always immediately painful, delaying treatment can lead to more complex and costly treatment.
What should I do if my filling falls out?
Keep the area clean by rinsing gently with warm salt water after meals. Avoid chewing on that side. Over-the-counter temporary filling material (available from pharmacies) can provide short-term protection. Avoid very hot or cold foods and drinks. Contact us to arrange an appointment as soon as possible.
What should I do if my crown falls off?
If your crown falls off: keep it safe and clean, try to gently place it back (do not force it or use household glue), avoid chewing on that side, and contact us promptly. If the tooth is painful, over-the-counter painkillers may help. The sooner you are seen, the more likely the crown can simply be re-cemented.
Why do fillings fall out?
Fillings can fall out due to: normal wear over time, new decay forming around the filling edge, teeth grinding (bruxism), biting on very hard foods, the filling material deteriorating, or fracture of the remaining tooth structure. The cause will be assessed at your appointment.
Will I need a crown instead of a filling?
If a large portion of the tooth is damaged or weakened, a crown may be recommended instead of a filling. Crowns provide more structural support and are more durable for heavily restored teeth. Your dentist will advise on the most suitable option based on clinical assessment.
Can you replace a filling on the same day?
In most cases, yes. A composite (white) filling can typically be completed in a single appointment. If a crown is needed, a temporary restoration is placed at the first visit while a custom crown is made (usually requiring a second appointment).
How long do replacement fillings last?
Composite (white) fillings typically last 5–10 years with proper care. Longevity depends on the size and location of the filling, oral hygiene, diet, and habits such as teeth grinding. Regular dental check-ups help detect any issues early.
Where is your lost filling emergency clinic?
5 Ave Maria Lane, The City of London, EC4M 7AQ — walking distance from St Paul's, Blackfriars, Bank, and Barbican stations. Open Monday to Friday 8am–8pm. Call 020 7183 3709.
Lost Filling or Crown? We Can Help
5 Ave Maria Lane, The City of London, EC4M 7AQ · Mon–Fri 8am–8pm
Emergency exam from £30 (new patients). All treatment requires informed consent. Prices valid April 2026.
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We look forward to providing exceptional dental and medical care to the City of London community.
Meet Our Dental Team
Our experienced dental team is fully qualified and registered with the GDC, delivering safe, high-quality care in line with the highest professional standards.
Because our patients deserve nothing less.
Registered. Regulated. Trusted.
At St Paul's Medical & Dental, we are in process of registering with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and our clinicians are registered with the relevant UK regulatory bodies, including the GDC and GMC. Our dentists, dental nurses and medical professionals deliver care that meets the highest clinical, safety and ethical standards, because our patients deserve nothing less.
