Urgent dental care · Open today
Temporary and Permanent Fillings
A lost filling, a broken tooth or a cavity that has started to hurt can usually be sealed the same day. We place a temporary filling to settle the tooth, or a permanent one where it is ready, so you leave comfortable and protected.
Same-day appointments · No registration required · Evenings & weekends
What this treatment is
The tooth sealed today, with the right filling for where it is
When a filling falls out or decay breaks through, the inner layer of the tooth is exposed and can react sharply to cold, sweet food or biting. Sealing it quickly stops the pain and protects the nerve. At your appointment we examine the tooth, take a radiograph where needed, and remove any decay. If the tooth is healthy enough, we place a permanent white or amalgam filling straight away. If the nerve is irritated, the decay is deep, or more treatment such as a root canal or crown is likely, we place a temporary filling first, which calms the tooth and keeps it sealed until the final restoration.
- Sealed the same day — a lost filling or open cavity is closed at the appointment, so the sensitivity settles.
- The right filling for the tooth — temporary where the tooth needs time to settle, permanent where it is ready.
- Clear next steps — if a temporary is placed, you know how long it lasts and what the permanent options cost.
Signs you need it
Come in if you have any of these
A temporary filling is designed to last weeks, not years. If one has been placed, book the permanent restoration before it wears down or breaks.
A filling has fallen out
01
Part or all of a filling has come away, leaving a gap in the tooth that may feel rough or sensitive.
A hole you can feel
02
A cavity you can feel with your tongue, or a dark spot that has started to catch food.
Sharp pain from cold or sweet
03
A quick, sharp pain from cold drinks or sweet food that fades when the trigger is removed.
Pain when biting
04
Pain or a twinge as you bite down on the tooth, which can mean a crack or a failing filling.
A sharp or broken edge
05
A broken corner or edge on a tooth or filling that is catching your tongue or cheek.
Food packing between teeth
06
Food getting stuck in the same place every time you eat, often a sign the filling edge has broken down.
What to expect
How the tooth is filled
Assessment and radiograph
STEP 01
We examine the tooth and take a radiograph if needed to see how deep the decay or damage goes.
Numbing and cleaning
STEP 02
The tooth is numbed and any decay or loose filling material is removed so the new filling bonds to sound tooth.
Placing the filling
STEP 03
A temporary or permanent filling is placed, depending on the health of the tooth and the treatment it is likely to need.
Shaping and bite check
STEP 04
The filling is shaped and polished, and your bite is checked so the tooth feels comfortable when you close.
Price & appointment length
filling, from
The fee covers the assessment, local anaesthetic, removing decay and placing a temporary filling. Permanent fillings are priced by size and material, and are quoted and confirmed with you before we start.
| Appointment length | 30–45 minutes |
| Local anaesthetic | Included |
| Radiograph if needed | Included |
| Permanent filling | Quoted before we start |
| Registration | Not required |
Questions
Before you come in
Not sure whether you need a temporary or permanent filling? Call the practice and describe the problem, and we will tell you what to expect.
What is the difference between a temporary and a permanent filling?
A temporary filling seals the tooth and lets it settle, but it is softer and lasts weeks to a few months. A permanent filling is stronger and made to last years. We use a temporary when the tooth needs time, or when more treatment is likely.
How long does a temporary filling last?
Usually a few weeks to a few months. It wears down faster than a permanent filling, so book the final restoration rather than leaving it in place long term.
White or silver filling?
White composite fillings match the colour of your teeth and bond to them. Amalgam fillings are very durable on back teeth. We will explain which suits the tooth and quote both where appropriate.
Will it hurt?
The tooth is numbed first, so the filling itself should be comfortable. Some sensitivity to cold or biting for a few days afterwards is normal and should settle.
When can I eat after a filling?
Wait until the numbness has worn off so you do not bite your cheek or tongue. With a temporary filling, avoid sticky or hard food on that side until the permanent one is placed.
In pain today?
Call the clinic or book online. New patients are welcome, and no registration is required.