Treat Cavities
Dental Fillings
At Twenty28 Dentistry, Dr. Craig Cheng and Dr. Bethany Kum are experienced restorative dentists in Pasadena and Altadena. If you suspect that you may have a cavity that needs a filling, you’re in the right place. We offer both tooth-colored and amalgam fillings and use the latest techniques to ensure you can have your tooth filled with no pain or discomfort. Learn more below, or contact us now to schedule your appointment at Twenty28 Dentistry.
We Focus on Prevention
But Sometimes, Intervention Is Necessary
Our goal at Twenty28 Dentistry is to prevent the need for fillings altogether. With regular visits every six months, proper at-home oral hygiene, and treatments like dental sealants and fluoride applications, we seek to prevent issues like tooth decay and gum disease.
But even if you’re taking great care of your teeth, cavities can still affect your smile. And if that happens, our doctors are here to help. We offer expert dental fillings in Altadena and Pasadena, and we can halt the process of decay, save your tooth, and restore your smile.
Tooth-Colored Restorations
Composite Fillings
Composite fillings are our preferred method of treating cavities at Twenty28 Dentistry. Compared to amalgam (metal) fillings, they have a number of benefits. First, composite fillings are made of tooth-colored dental resin, so they won’t affect the natural appearance of your smile.
Composite fillings also form a very strong bond and require the removal of less enamel compared to metal fillings. For these reasons, we recommend composite fillings for most patients.
Metal Restorations
Amalgam Fillings
We also offer metal amalgam fillings. These filings do not offer the same cosmetic results as composite fillings, but they are very strong and durable and are usually covered by most dental insurance plans. We will gladly discuss your options during your consultation, and help you decide if a composite or metal filling is right for you.
Do I Have a Cavity?
Recognizing the Signs
It’s typically quite easy to recognize the signs of a cavity. Sensitivity to heat, cold, and the pressure of chewing are often the earliest indicators that you may have a cavity. This occurs when the enamel and dentin of your tooth are wearing away, eventually exposing the sensitive pulp that supports your tooth.
A toothache that won’t go away is also a common indicator or of an advanced cavity, and may also indicate a tooth infection. You can also examine your teeth using a mirror, and look for brown, white or black staining on your tooth, as well as visible pitting or holes on the surface of the tooth.
If you notice one or more of these signs, you may have a cavity. This indicates that it is important to get treatment right away to ensure that we are able to preserve your tooth. If you wait too long and your tooth continues to deteriorate, you may need to get a more costly, invasive treatment like a crown or a root canal.