Temporary fillings usually last around 6 to 8 weeks. Some can last up to 3 months, but they are a short-term solution rather than a restoration designed to stay in place for years. See our dental fillings service.
- Temporary fillings can also be used between stages of root canal treatment or while a tooth is waiting for a longer-term restoration such as a dental crown.
- Material: the temporary material used affects how long it can remain serviceable and how quickly it sets.
- Location: where the temporary filling sits in the mouth affects the pressure and wear it receives.
- Care: chewing habits, brushing, flossing and whether you grind your teeth can all affect how long it stays in place.
Temporary filling materials
| Material | Typical lifespan | Set time |
| ZOE or Cavit | 2 to 4 weeks | Sets in hours |
| Glass ionomer | 6 to 12 weeks | Sets in minutes |
| IRM | Up to a few months | Not specified |
How much does a temporary filling cost in the UK?
The Cosmetic Dental Gallery’s current published fees do not list a standalone temporary-filling price. An emergency appointment is £95, with treatment charged separately. Permanent composite fillings currently start from £220 for incisors or canines, £250 for premolars and £275 for molars. See our current fees and dental fillings service.
For NHS treatment in England, fillings sit within Band 2 care, currently £76.60, while an urgent unscheduled course of care is currently £27.90 where that charge applies. Your dentist can confirm which charge applies to the treatment you need.
| Need a permanent filling? Explore dental fillings in Greenwich & Battersea for tooth-coloured composite fillings, current fees and booking options. |
Frequently asked questions
Do temporary fillings break easily?
Temporary fillings are less durable than permanent restorations, so they can wear, loosen or break if they are left in for too long or exposed to heavy chewing. Avoid very hard or sticky foods and arrange the permanent treatment your dentist has recommended.
Can you brush a temporary filling?
Yes. Brush the tooth gently with a soft toothbrush and continue to keep the area clean. When flossing beside a temporary filling, follow the technique your dentist has shown you so you do not pull unnecessarily on the edge of the material.
Will a temporary filling stop tooth pain?
A temporary filling can protect the tooth and may help settle symptoms when it seals the area or contains a soothing material such as zinc oxide eugenol. It is not a permanent cure for every cause of toothache. Contact the practice if pain is severe, worsening, associated with swelling or does not settle as expected. See our emergency dental treatment service.
What are the disadvantages of temporary fillings?
Temporary fillings are designed for short-term use. They are less durable than permanent fillings, can wear or loosen and still need to be replaced with the definitive treatment planned by your dentist.
Can I get a temporary filling on the NHS?
A temporary filling can be used as part of clinically necessary NHS dental care when your dentist considers it appropriate. In England, fillings fall within Band 2 treatment, currently £76.60, while an urgent unscheduled course of care is currently £27.90 where applicable. Your dentist can confirm the correct charge for your course of treatment.
About the author
Dr Hartej Singh Matharu — Principal Dentist | BDS, PG Cert, PG Dip (Prosthodontics) | GDC 259113.
Last reviewed: September 2026.
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