One-Appointment Cosmetic Bonding

June 13, 2013

Filed under: Cosmetic Dentistry — Tags: , , , , , , , , — Les Latner @ 7:38 am

cosmetic bondingMany patients dream of a more beautiful smile. For some, though, the expense or the inconvenience of multiple visits can be off-putting. But there’s one service that allows you to get the cosmetic care you’re looking for at a smaller price and in just one appointment—it’s called cosmetic bonding.

Cosmetic bonding is a great solution for patients who have a chipped or slightly misaligned tooth that they want you to restore. To do that, Dr. Latner will apply a putty-like material known as composite resin to the surface of the tooth. To make sure that your restored tooth matches the rest of your smile, the resin will be shaded to blend in.

When the resin has cured with a curing light, Dr. Latner will complete your procedures by sculpting and shaping it.

Caring for Your Restoration

Once your smile has been restored with cosmetic bonding, you might wonder how you can keep it looking beautiful. The answer is simple, just brush and floss like you normally would. If cared for properly, you can expect cosmetic bonding to last for 5 to 10 years.

Are you looking for an alternative to porcelain veneers that can help you enjoy better self-confidence? Talk to Dr. Latner of Westside Dental Associates about cosmetic bonding. Our Los Angeles team would be happy to answer any questions you might have. We serve patients from Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, West LA, Mar Vista, and beyond.

A Brighter Smile Goes the Extra Mile

June 10, 2013

Filed under: Cosmetic Dentistry,Whitening — Tags: , , , — Les Latner @ 8:47 pm

A Brighter Smile Goes the Extra Mile – Teeth WhitenDr. Latner DIAGNOdent Los Angelesing with Les Latner

During a first date or job interviews, first impressions are everything. Not just in your demeanor, but appearance as well. In the first few seconds of meeting someone, that person will formulate an opinion of you based on body language. If you want it to be a positive one, you’d be remiss without flashing a smile. Smiling puts others at ease and shows you as a friendly person. Now everyone wants to be the best they can be and you should strive for quality in everything about yourself. So when it comes to a smile, why not make it the best it can be?

 

A main effect of teeth whitening is a sharp increase in social status, as crazy as that sounds. It boosts a person’s aesthetics, which in turn can lead to success in climbing the corporate ladder and finding Mr. or Mrs. Right. In addition to increasing an outsider’s perceived value of you, it can boost your self-confidence immensely. By having a positive self-image, you’re more likely to step outside your comfort zone, which is usually where success resides. It’s important to note, however, that whitening teeth can have positive effects on a person other than a massive ego boost.

Professional teeth whitening materials can kill the bacteria that cause gum disease as well as those that cause tooth decay, leading to all-around healthier teeth. Gum disease isn’t something to be taken lightly, as it is responsible for receding gums, increased sensitivity to temperature changes and touch, pain, and inflammation. So by taking preventative measures you may just be saving yourself a whole lot of trouble with little effort by taking the time to take care of your smile.

Of course teeth whitening is far from the easiest method of protecting your teeth. In fact it may be the last thing on your mind when it comes to looking after them. Brushing, using mouthwash, even (yikes!) flossing comes to mind before deciding to do it. After whitening, however, you may be more motivated to continue taking care of your mouth. So if you want to take that extra step and look amazing while helping yourself, then teeth whitening is the thing for you! Westside Dental Associates and Les Latner DDS offers this quality service that will not leave you disappointed.

What If Dental Implants Aren’t Right for Me?

June 6, 2013

Filed under: Restorative Dentistry — Tags: , , , , , , , , , , — Les Latner @ 7:31 am

restorative dentistryFor patients who are missing one or more teeth, dental implants can do a lot to restore natural functionality and appearance. But as effective as they are, they aren’t right for everyone. It takes a certain amount of bone to support the implant posts that anchor a dental implants restoration. If that isn’t there, dental implants may not be an immediate option. So what might your alternatives be?

In some cases, it may be possible for you to become a candidate through bone grafting. The bone grafting process involves the transplant of bone tissue to where you need it, or a synthetic material may also be used. The result afterwards is a jaw that’s strong enough to anchor one or more implants.

In other cases, traditional options are always possible. Even though they don’t mimic the natural structure of teeth with a prosthetic root, traditional bridges, partial dentures, and full dentures can help you speak clearer, enjoy a more balanced diet. They can also help you improve the appearance of your smile and your confidence.

Do you have gaps in your smile but have been told that dental implants aren’t right for you? Find out how Dr. Latner of Westside Dental Associates can help. Explore our services to find out about our restorative dentistry options, and call us to reserve a consultation appointment. We’re serve patients from Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, West LA, Mar Vista, and beyond.

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