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What to Do in a Dental Emergency
Quick, practical first steps for common dental emergencies — and when to seek urgent help.
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Restorative
Dental Fillings
Repair teeth affected by decay or minor damage, restoring their shape and function.
Overview
A filling repairs a tooth that has been damaged by decay or a small fracture. Your dentist removes the affected part of the tooth, cleans the area and fills it with a suitable material so the tooth can work comfortably again. We explain the options for your tooth before starting.
Who may need dental fillings?
- Patients with a cavity or a dark spot on a tooth
- People with a chipped or worn tooth
- Anyone with a filling that has cracked, worn down or come out
- Patients who feel sensitivity in a particular tooth when eating or drinking
Potential benefits
- Helps stop decay from progressing further in the treated tooth
- Restores the shape of the tooth for comfortable chewing
- Tooth-coloured materials can blend with your natural teeth
- Usually completed in a single visit
Outcomes vary between individuals, and no specific result can be guaranteed.
Treatment process
What to expect, step by step
- 1
Examination
We check the tooth and may take an X-ray to see how far the problem extends.
- 2
Numbing
Local anaesthetic is used so you stay comfortable during treatment.
- 3
Cleaning the tooth
Decayed or damaged material is carefully removed.
- 4
Filling & finishing
The filling is placed, shaped and polished, and your bite is checked.
Preparation and aftercare
Preparing for your visit
- Tell us about any allergies or medicines you take
- Eat beforehand if you can, as numbness can last a few hours
- Let us know if you feel anxious so we can go at your pace
Aftercare guidance
- Avoid chewing on the treated side until the numbness has worn off
- Mild sensitivity can occur for a short time — tell us if it persists
- Keep brushing and flossing normally and attend regular check-ups
FAQs
Questions about dental fillings
The area is numbed first, so you should feel pressure rather than pain. Tell us straight away if you feel any discomfort.
This varies with the material, the size of the filling and your oral hygiene. Regular check-ups help us monitor it.
More questions? See our full FAQ or contact the clinic.
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Learn moreThe information on this website is general in nature and does not replace diagnosis, advice or treatment from a qualified dental professional. Individual results and suitability vary. If you have urgent symptoms, contact the clinic's emergency number or your local emergency service.
Interested in dental fillings?
Request an appointment or message us — your dentist will talk through whether it's right for you.