Same-Day Dental Restorations for Golders Green Patients

If you have sudden damage to a tooth, book an emergency appointment. This includes a lost or broken filling, a chipped or cracked tooth with sharp edges or pain, or a crown or veneer that has come off. A small chip may not seem urgent, but it can weaken the tooth or have sharp edges that injure your tongue or cheek. A lost filling exposes inner parts of the tooth, increasing the risk of decay and sensitivity. For example, a Golders Green patient recently visited after a filling fell out during lunch; we saw them the same day to prevent further discomfort and protect the tooth.

Your emergency restoration appointment focuses on resolving the problem quickly. First call 0203 488 0335 to explain the situation so we can prepare for your arrival. The appointment lasts about 60 minutes and starts with an assessment. We use digital imaging to see the extent of the damage. Next we discuss the best way to restore your tooth. This could be a direct composite bonding repair for a chip, a temporary or permanent filling, or re-cementing a crown. We numb the area to keep the procedure comfortable. The aim is for you to leave Finchley with the issue resolved and a plan for any follow-up care if needed.

Recovery may bring mild sensitivity for 24 to 48 hours, which is normal. Avoid very hot, cold, or hard foods on the treated tooth for the first day. If local anaesthetic was used, avoid biting the cheek or tongue until the numbness wears off, usually within 2 to 3 hours. You can manage minor discomfort with over-the-counter painkillers such as ibuprofen. Maintain good oral hygiene, but brush gently around the new restoration for the first few days. A recent case involved a student from Golders Green who broke a molar. We placed a temporary restoration and advised a soft food diet for 48 hours before returning for a permanent crown fitting a week later, with no issues. Red flags call during office hours (Mon/Wed/Fri 9-5, Tue/Thu 11-7): - Severe, persistent pain that is not relieved by painkillers. - The restoration feels high or uncomfortable when you bite. - The restoration chips, cracks, or falls out. - Swelling in the gum tissue around the tooth.

In most emergencies, our main aim is to save your natural tooth. A filling, bonding, or a new crown is usually best. If the tooth is fractured below the gumline or the damage is too extensive, restoration may not be possible. In rare cases the only option is tooth extraction. If this occurs, we discuss it with you, explain the reasons, and outline future replacement options like a dental implant or bridge. This is a last resort since preserving your natural teeth matters.

The cost of an emergency dental restoration depends on the type and complexity of the treatment required. A simple composite filling or re-cementing a crown costs less than a complex repair requiring a new, custom-made crown. We provide a clear quote after examining the tooth during your appointment. There are no hidden fees. As a private practice, NHS treatment is not offered. We accept several major dental insurance plans including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Please tell our team if you have coverage when you book.

To choose what works for you, ask questions whether you see us or another practice in the Golders Green area. Here are key questions: What material is used for the restoration and how long will it last? Is this a temporary or permanent solution? What is the total cost for the emergency visit and the restoration? Are there signs of underlying issues that may need further treatment? Will you need a follow-up appointment?