Dental fillings Telford
Natural-looking fillings to repair decay or damage, stop sensitivity, and protect your tooth — with a gentle approach and clear advice on the best material for you.
- Careful assessment to confirm the cause and choose the right type of filling.
- Tooth-coloured materials for a natural finish (where suitable) and a comfortable bite.
- A focus on long-term strength — with advice if an inlay/onlay or crown would be better.
Quick facts
Dental fillings, at a glance
Fillings repair decay or small cracks, seal the tooth, and restore a comfortable bite. We focus on precise, tidy dentistry — with tooth-coloured options and a finish that feels natural when you chew.
What it is
Dental fillings, explained.
A dental filling repairs a tooth that’s been damaged by decay or a small fracture. We remove the softened or broken area, clean the tooth, then rebuild it with a strong restorative material that’s shaped to fit your bite and polished for a natural finish. If a tooth can be restored predictably with a filling, it’s often the simplest way to stop a problem from becoming a bigger one.
-
Stop decay progressing Remove the damaged area and seal the tooth.
-
Reduce sensitivity Protect the inner tooth and calm hot/cold triggers.
-
Restore shape & bite Rebuild strength so chewing feels even and comfortable.
-
Keep it looking natural Tooth-coloured options designed to blend in seamlessly.
Smaller cavities are usually quicker and more straightforward to restore. If decay is left to grow, the filling can become larger, the tooth can weaken, and symptoms like sensitivity or pain are more likely. We’ll confirm what’s needed with an exam and X-rays, then recommend the simplest option that protects the tooth for the long term.
What happens during a dental filling?
Assessment
We examine the tooth and, if needed, take X-rays to confirm the size and position of decay or a small fracture. Then we explain your options (white composite, or another suitable material) and what will give the strongest, most natural result.
Know your options
Dental fillings vs crowns.
When a tooth is chipped or decayed, we’ll look at how much healthy tooth is left. If the tooth can be restored predictably with a filling, that’s often the simplest solution. If the tooth is weakened or the repair would be too large, a crown may offer stronger long-term protection.
Repair the tooth, keep it natural.
A filling removes decay or damaged enamel and rebuilds the missing part of the tooth. It’s ideal when there’s enough healthy structure left to support the restoration. Tooth-coloured composite fillings are shaped to your bite and polished for a natural finish.
-
When it’s recommended Small to moderate decay, minor chips, and repairs that don’t weaken the tooth.
-
What it feels like Often quick and comfortable — numbing is used when needed for deeper areas.
-
Why it’s chosen Conservative option that preserves the most natural tooth structure.
Cover the tooth, strengthen it.
A crown is a custom-made cap that fits over the tooth to restore strength, shape, and function. It’s recommended when a tooth has a large filling, significant decay, cracks, or has become structurally weaker — where a filling alone may not be durable enough.
-
When it’s recommended Large restorations, cracks, worn teeth, or when the tooth needs extra reinforcement.
-
What you gain Improved strength for chewing and better protection against future fracture.
-
Finish & longevity Custom shade and fit — often the most durable option when the tooth is compromised.
Good to know
Dental fillings FAQs
Straight answers to the questions we hear most about dental fillings in Telford — when you need one, what it feels like, and how to look after it afterwards.
A quick overview
We assess the tooth and take X-rays if needed, numb the area when required, remove decay, place the filling, then shape and polish it.
When do I need a dental filling?
A filling is recommended when a tooth has decay or a small fracture that can be repaired predictably.
- Cavities found on exam or X-rays
- Chipped or worn edges that trap food
- Old fillings that have leaked or broken down
- Sensitivity caused by small areas of damage
We’ll show you what we’re seeing and explain the most conservative option to protect the tooth.
Does getting a filling hurt?
Most fillings are comfortable. If the cavity is deeper or the tooth is sensitive, we use local anaesthetic so you stay numb during treatment.
Afterwards, it’s normal to have mild sensitivity for a short time — especially to cold — but it should settle as the tooth adapts.
What’s the difference between white and silver fillings?
White (composite) fillings are tooth-coloured and bond to the tooth for a natural look. Silver (amalgam) fillings are durable and have been used for many years, but are more visible.
We’ll recommend the best option based on the tooth, the size of the cavity, your bite, and what you’d like aesthetically.
How long do fillings last?
It depends on the size of the filling, where it is in the mouth, your bite, and your oral hygiene. Many fillings last for years with good care.
- Keep brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Clean between teeth daily
- Attend regular check-ups so we can monitor wear and edges
- If you grind, a night guard may help protect restorations
Can I eat after a filling?
Usually yes — but if you’ve had local anaesthetic, wait until the numbness wears off so you don’t accidentally bite your cheek or tongue.
If your filling feels “high” when you bite, contact us — a quick adjustment can make it comfortable.
Why is my tooth sensitive after a filling?
Some temporary sensitivity is common, especially to cold or when biting, as the tooth settles. It should improve over days to a couple of weeks.
If the sensitivity is worsening, sharp on biting, or not settling, get in touch — we may need to adjust the bite or check the tooth.
What if a filling falls out or breaks?
Contact us as soon as you can. A lost or broken filling can allow food and bacteria back into the tooth, which may lead to further decay or pain.
In the meantime, keep the area clean, avoid chewing hard foods on that side, and let us know if you’re in pain.
When might I need a crown instead of a filling?
If a cavity or old filling is very large, the remaining tooth can be weaker and more likely to crack. In those cases, a crown may offer better long-term protection.
- Large fillings in back teeth
- Cracks or heavily worn teeth
- Teeth that need extra reinforcement for chewing forces
We’ll explain why, show you the tooth structure, and recommend the safest option for longevity.