TL;DR: A temporary filling is a short-term seal that protects a tooth until permanent treatment. It is designed to be replaced, so patients should book the follow-up. If a filling or crown falls out, the tooth stays exposed to decay and may become sensitive. Contact a dentist promptly, and use NHS 111 if pain or swelling develops out of hours. This guide has 8 sections and answers 3 frequently asked questions. It lists 3 primary sources, from NHS.uk. Facts were checked on 2026-10-13; it is educational information, not clinical advice.
Educational information only, not clinical advice. Facts are checked against the primary sources listed under Sources (NHS.uk, GDC, CQC and peer-reviewed research), last checked 13 October 2026.
What is a temporary filling?
A temporary filling is a soft, short-lived material that a dentist places to protect a tooth between appointments. Dentists use one after a first stage of root canal treatment, while waiting for a crown, or when a tooth needs time to settle. It is weaker than a permanent filling.
How long can a temporary filling stay in?
A temporary filling is meant for weeks, not years. The dentist gives a timeframe for the permanent restoration. Leaving it in place for longer raises the risk that it cracks, wears, or falls out, and that bacteria reach the tooth underneath. Book the follow-up visit even if the tooth feels fine.
What should I do if a filling or crown falls out?
Contact a dentist as soon as practical. Until the appointment, patients commonly do the following:
- Keep the piece safe and bring it to the appointment.
- Chew on the other side and avoid sticky or hard foods.
- Keep the area clean by brushing gently.
- Cover a sharp edge with sugar-free gum or dental wax from a pharmacy, if the dentist agrees.
Over-the-counter temporary repair kits exist, but a dentist should decide whether the tooth can be repaired or needs a new restoration.
When is a lost filling an urgent problem?
A lost filling with mild sensitivity is usually treated as a prompt but not emergency appointment. Severe pain, a swollen face or gum, fever, or a bad taste suggest infection. Use NHS 111 when the practice is closed. Call 999 or go to A&E for swelling that affects breathing or swallowing.
How much does replacement cost?
On the NHS, a filling falls in Band 2, and a crown in Band 3. Urgent care has its own charge. Check current fees on NHS.uk. Private fees depend on the material, the tooth, and the practice. This guide gives no prices.
What happens if the tooth cannot be saved?
If decay is extensive, the dentist may discuss extraction and replacement options. See tooth extraction and aftercare and dental implants in Essex. To find a practice, browse Essex dentists in the Essex directory.
Does “temporary” have a time limit?
Temporary fillings are made to wear and leak, so decay can continue underneath. Leaving one for months is the main way a simple repair becomes a root canal or an extraction.
How urgent is a lost filling or crown?
See a dentist today if you have severe pain, swelling, fever or a bad taste, a sharp edge cutting your tongue or cheek, or a crown that came out with a piece of tooth.
Within a few days if the tooth is only sensitive to hot or cold, or the filling has gone but the tooth does not hurt.
Keep the crown or filling in a safe container and bring it. Do not use super glue or household adhesives.
Related questions covered elsewhere in this topic: tooth bridge.
Directory pages for this topic: dental implants in Southend-on-Sea, dental implants in Colchester and dental implants in Thurrock. Each lists only practices whose own websites mention the treatment; a mention is not proof of availability.
FAQ
Can I eat normally with a temporary filling?
Follow your dentist’s advice. Most suggest avoiding very hard or sticky foods on that side.
Is a lost filling an emergency?
Usually no, unless there is severe pain, swelling, or fever. Contact a dentist promptly regardless.
Will the NHS replace a lost filling?
The NHS can treat it if clinically necessary. Charges apply unless you are exempt.
Sources
- NHS.uk, Dental treatments (fillings): https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-teeth-and-gums/dental-treatments/
- NHS.uk, NHS dental charges: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/dentists/how-much-nhs-dental-treatment-costs/
- NHS 111 online: https://111.nhs.uk/