Lost Filling or Crown LondonSame-Day Replacement & Repair
Lost a filling or had a crown come off? The exposed tooth is vulnerable to bacteria and further damage. Our emergency dentists in London can assess the situation and often replace or re-cement your restoration on the same day.
Lost Filling / Crown Assessment
New patient offer (usual £95)
- Assessment of the exposed tooth
- X-rays £20 (£10 members) if needed
- Check for underlying decay
- Treatment plan with costs
Or call: 020 7183 2362
Lost Filling or Crown? Here's What to Do
Losing a filling or crown can be unsettling, but it is one of the most common dental emergencies we see at our London clinic. The most important thing is not to ignore it — even if there is no pain, the exposed tooth is at risk of further decay and damage.
At South Kensington Medical & Dental, our emergency dentists can assess the tooth, check for underlying problems, and often carry out the repair on the same visit. If your existing crown is intact and the tooth underneath is healthy, re-cementation can be a quick and straightforward procedure.
We are open 7 days a week, including late evenings on Tuesdays and Thursdays until 8pm, and weekends. Our clinic at 20 Old Brompton Road is next to South Kensington Tube Station.
Types of Lost or Damaged Restorations
Lost Filling
When a filling falls out, the underlying tooth structure is exposed. The cavity left behind can trap food and bacteria, potentially leading to further decay or infection if not addressed promptly.
See a dentist within 24–48 hours
Lost Crown
A crown that has come off leaves the prepared tooth underneath exposed. This tooth is typically weakened and vulnerable to fracture. If you still have the crown, keep it safe — it may be possible to re-cement it.
See a dentist within 24 hours
Loose or Cracked Filling
A filling that feels loose, moves when you bite, or has a visible crack is at risk of falling out completely. Bacteria can seep underneath a compromised filling, potentially causing decay beneath the restoration.
Book within a few days
Why Do Fillings and Crowns Come Off?
Decay Underneath
New decay can develop beneath an old filling or crown, weakening the bond between the restoration and the tooth.
Normal Wear
Fillings and crowns have a finite lifespan. Over years of chewing, grinding, and temperature changes, restorations can weaken and eventually fail.
Teeth Grinding
Bruxism places excessive force on restorations, particularly during sleep, which can loosen crowns and crack fillings over time.
Hard or Sticky Foods
Biting on very hard foods (ice, hard sweets) or eating sticky foods (toffee, caramel) can dislodge fillings and pull off crowns.
Poor Bite Alignment
If a filling or crown is slightly too high, the uneven force distribution can gradually weaken the restoration.
Large Restorations
Larger fillings that replace a significant portion of tooth structure have less natural tooth to bond to and may be more prone to failure.
What to Do Until Your Appointment
These temporary measures may help protect the exposed tooth while you wait for professional treatment.
- If you have the crown, try placing it back on the tooth with a small amount of denture adhesive or toothpaste (not superglue) as a temporary measure.
- For a lost filling, you can cover the cavity with sugar-free chewing gum or over-the-counter temporary filling material from a pharmacy.
- Avoid chewing on the affected side to prevent further damage.
- Keep the area clean by rinsing gently with warm salt water after meals.
- Avoid very hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks that may cause sensitivity.
- Take over-the-counter pain relief if experiencing discomfort.
Do not use superglue to re-attach a crown or filling. Commercial adhesives can damage the tooth and make professional repair more difficult.
Filling & Crown Replacement Costs
Transparent pricing. Costs depend on the treatment needed after assessment.
| Treatment | Member* | Non-Member |
|---|---|---|
| Emergency Assessment (New Patient Offer) | £30 | £95 |
| Dental Examination | £47.50 | £95 |
| Digital X-Ray | £10 | £20 |
| Composite Filling | from £92.50 | from £185 |
| Crown Re-cementation | from £47.50 | from £95 |
| New Dental Crown (PFM) | from £497.50 | from £995 |
| Inlay / Onlay | from £347.50 | from £695 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Lost a Filling or Crown? We Can Help Today
Same-day repairs and re-cementation available 7 days a week at our Central London clinic.
If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, please call 999 or go to A&E immediately.
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 South Kensington Medical & Dental, we are fully registered 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.
