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.