Dental fillings are restorations that protect your teeth from further decay caused by cavities. Studies continue to show that over 90% of patients between the ages of 20 and 64 have had at least one cavity in their permanent adult teeth. At Hello Smile Dental, Dr. Kevin Ju and his team provide Simi Valley, California area patients with the information they need to know when cavities form and ways to address them.

Signs of a dental cavity

By visiting a dentist in Simi Valley, patients of California can learn about the three common symptoms of tooth decay. They may include:

• Toothache. One of the most common complaints is that of a toothache. It may be ongoing, or it may come on suddenly while eating food. Regardless, any pain and discomfort when eating should be brought to the attention of a dentist to evaluate an individual for cavities.
• Sensitivity to sweets. If you are looking forward to eating chocolate but then experience discomfort when enjoying them, you may be dealing with a cavity. Tooth decay can often cause a lingering sensitivity to sugary foods and beverages.
• Hot and cold sensitivity. Whether you are eating extremely cold ice cream or enjoying a hot coffee in the morning, sensitivity to hot and cold items can indicate the possibility of a cavity. Worn or damaged enamel can cause access to the dentin, which reduces the protection of the nerve responsible for discomfort.

What can be done about a dental cavity?

A dental cavity is a type of decay that impacts the structure of the tooth. It will require fillings in Simi Valley area patients, or in some cases, the placement of a dental crown as well. Fillings are the most common treatment. These are composite resin materials that are used to fill the area left behind from the decay. In some cases, the placement of a filling is not enough to successfully seal off a tooth, and a dentist may also recommend the use of a dental crown over the top of the affected tooth. The crown offers an extra layer of strength and protection for the tooth after it has been filled to treat a cavity. Dental crowns in Simi Valley are natural-looking, strong, and durable.

When should I see a dentist about a possible cavity?

Any time you believe there is something different, unusual, or “off” about your smile, it may be time to schedule an appointment with a dentist. Even if you have your six-month checkup scheduled, you are still advised to make a separate appointment if you suspect problems have arisen. During a visit with Dr. Kevin Ju, patients can ask about their oral health and have a separate evaluation done to determine if there is a cavity present. Once one has been diagnosed, then patients will speak to their professional team about the options available to them for restoring the smile’s health and appearance. When fillings are placed, patients are educated on how to care for them and extend their longevity. Fillings do not always require additional care or attention outside of brushing and flossing each day as directed by our dental team.

How do I learn more about tooth decay and dental fillings? Keeping the smile healthy can be achieved with the assistance of a dentist in Simi Valley, California. If you are interested in getting a definitive diagnosis and learning about fillings, crowns, and other restorative techniques available today, contact Dr. Kevin Ju of Hello Smile Dental today. The office is located at 1782 Erringer Road and can be reached to schedule an appointment at (805) 380-5048. We accept new and current patients in our state-of-the-art dental facility.

There are a variety of choices available to patients who have experienced tooth loss or tooth extraction. Dentists in Simi Valley, CA often provide solutions such as dentures, dental bridges, and dental implants. But which one is right for you? For many patients who visit our practice asking about tooth replacement, the dental implant stands out as the prime choice for many interested in a more permanent, long-lasting tooth replacement that stops bone loss.

What is a dental implant?

Simi Valley dentist, Dr. Kevin Ju, describes the dental implant as the gold standard in replacing missing teeth permanently. These implants, made of a metal called titanium, are biocompatible with the body. During a surgical procedure, the implant, which looks like a small post, is placed strategically into the jaw bone where the missing tooth once was. The implant placement stimulates a process known as osseointegration, which causes the natural bone to grow around the implant and solidify it in place. In doing so, it not only helps stop bone loss called dental resorption but can improve the bone of the jaw through osseointegration. Because the bone of the jaw wraps around the implant, it provides a stable, reliable foundation for restorations, including crowns, bridges, and even full dentures.

Are implants the only replacement that maintains the bone of the jaw?

If you’ve ever known anyone that has been wearing traditional complete dentures for quite some time, you may have become aware of the changes that occur to the shape of their face and jaw. Bone loss starts as soon as a tooth has been lost, and without stimulation or bone grafting, bone resorption will continue to break down the presence of bone. This causes the mouth to have a “sunken-in” appearance often seen with long-term denture wearers. With the dental implant, the bone is maintained, and patients will not experience the same type of bone loss they would with alternative solutions.

Why should I choose dental implants?

There are several reasons outside of stopping bone loss that causes many patients to move forward with the placement of dental implants. Simi Valley patients may also enjoy these added benefits:

•             Growth of bone in the jaw

•             The natural function of the tooth replacement

•             Versatility with restorations including crowns, bridges, or dentures

•             A stable foundation for restoration

•             Long-term replacement, with dental implants commonly lasting decades

•             A wise investment in restoring the health, function, and appearance of the smile

Who is a good candidate for dental implants?

Simi Valley dentists will often consult with a patient and perform an evaluation to decide if a patient is a good fit for a dental implant. Potential patients must have sufficient bone in place already to ensure successful implantation. Patients might consider bone grafting to prepare the jaw for the upcoming restoration. X-rays are used to evaluate the smile’s health and decide if an implant can be placed appropriately.

How do I maintain my dental implant?

Dental implants require minimal maintenance, making them a fantastic choice for patients with busy and active lifestyles. Patients are educated on how to brush and floss around their implant, as well as how to care for their smile to reduce the risks of developing periodontal disease—which can also cause unwanted bone loss. With proper care, patients can expect their new implants to last them a lifetime!

Take the first step towards restoring your smile with dental implants!

If you have been thinking about the options available to you for restoring your smile’s function and appearance after tooth loss, Dr. Kevin Ju and his team at Hello Smile are here to help. Call the office at (805) 380-5048 to request a consultation visit and initial evaluation to find out if you are a candidate for dental implants. Simi Valley, CA area patients can visit the office at 1782 Erringer Road, which is open to new patients.