Cavities can become a real big problem if they’re left to rot, literally. They can cause all sorts of issues that range from your basic toothache to sensitivity that will leave you reeling. At our office in Los Angeles, CA, we’re all about continuing education and staying on the cutting edge of dental technology. One such piece of technology is changing the way we look at cavities and how best to treat them. It’s called DIAGNOdent, and it’s revolutionized the industry like never before. In the past, diagnosing a cavity wasn’t difficult simply because symptoms were already visible. With this state-of-the-art machine, we can use the futuristic technology to diagnose cavities in their infancy. Think about that; we can actively treat cavities as they are forming so you don’t have to worry about losing a tooth or dealing with any type of root canal therapy. Are you ready to experience one of the most revolutionary machines to hit the market? It’s time you felt the DIAGNOdent difference!
Westside Dental Associates
Don’t Let Cavities Ruin Your Smile – Zap Them With DIAGNOdent
July 21, 2015
Flossing Is One of the Most Beneficial Preventive Dentistry Techniques
We have our eye on you, floss floppers. You know who you are. You can’t hide from us! Did you honestly think that brushing alone could rid your mouth of all the bacteria that needs to go? We sure hope not. While brushing is a helpful tool and a necessity in keeping diseases and harmful bacteria at bay, it isn’t the end-all be-all of practices. Flossing is just as important, if not more when it comes to keeping your oral health in tip-top shape. We’ve heard tons of excuses on why patients aren’t flossing, and we always try explaining why flossing is so vital. Our office in Los Angeles, CA wants you to know that incorporating flossing into your daily dental hygiene regimen is the smart thing to do. All that food from the night before that didn’t make it into your stomach is sitting in between your teeth, just waiting for other bacteria to join so they can throw a party in your mouth. Squash the party and start treating your teeth like your best friends. Start flossing!
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Gum Disease Therapy form the Dentist Los Angeles, CA Trusts
July 20, 2015
Some leve of periodontal (gum) disease affects nearly 80% of adults over 30 in the United States. It has been called an epidemic by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Yet, many patients still aren’t aware of the number of people affected by this preventable disease. In order to prevent periodontal disease visit the Los Angeles, CA dental practice of Dr. Les Latner twice a year, brush twice a day, and floss at least once a day. If you are currently suffering from periodontal disease or believe you might be, call Westside Dental Associates to schedule an appointment today. Early treatment can help prevent more detrimental effects associated with gum disease including tooth sensitivity.
Gum Disease Causes & Symptoms
Our bodies are made up of numerous interconnected systems that work together to maintain health. Gum disease is caused by the buildup of bacteria beneath and around the gums. When sugary or starchy foods come in contact with the bacterial build up they become acidic. These acids are typically neutralized by basal nutrients from saliva, but when the amount of saliva produced is unable to neutralize the acids potential for tooth decay and gum disease increases.
When plaque and tartar build up below the gum line, the gums can become irritated or inflamed. This is a condition commonly referred to as gingivitis. When not treated by a dentist, gingivitis is difficult to get rid of because the buildup below the gums cannot be removed with regular brushing and flossing alone. Eventually, the buildup of tartar can lead to periodontitis the more serious form of gum disease. The irritation and inflammation of gingivitis develop into pockets of infection that can destroy the fibers and bone that connect your teeth to the gums. Eventually, infection can lead to the recession of gum tissue which exposes the roots of teeth to damaging plaque and other debris.
Gum Disease & Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity is not always caused by gum disease, but periodontitis leads to tooth sensitivity for several reasons. Gum disease and the related infection expose your tooth enamel to bacteria that can cause damage, gum recession that exposes the roots of teeth which contain sensitive nerves, and the pockets of infection can cause your teeth to loosen and shift.
Teeth exposed to the bacterial infection associated with gum disease for an extended period of time are more likely to decay. Decaying teeth are sensitive to hot and cold, become painful or uncomfortable while chewing, and may begin to ache constantly. Gum recession occurs when periodontitis breaks down the fibers connecting teeth and gums. When this happens, gums often shift upwards exposing more of the roots of teeth. These roots contain the sensitive nerves and increased or prolonged exposure causes tooth sensitivity especially to heat and cold. Finally, the breakdown of fibers that connect teeth and gums and connect your teeth to your jawbone allow teeth to shift within the socket. This shifting can lead to tooth sensitivity and pain when chewing.
Call to Schedule a Checkup and Cleaning with Your Dentist, Los Angeles
At every six month checkup, you will receive a thorough oral health examination that includes a screening for periodontal disease. As many of the early indicators of gum disease go unnoticed by those suffering from the disease, regular checkups are essential to early treatment. Our hygienists will thoroughly clean your teeth and gums removing plaque, tartar and calculus that can lead to gum disease over time. With regular checkups and thorough at-home care, gum disease is almost entirely preventable. Call to schedule an appointment with Dr. Latner and the Westside Dental Associates team today.
Help Us Welcome Dr. Latner To The International Association of Healthcare Professionals
June 27, 2015
There’s some exciting news that we’d like to share with you. Dr. Les Latner has recently been named a New Member of the International Association of HealthCare Professionals. It’s a prestigious honor that has been bestowed on Los Angeles dentist, Dr. Latner. It’s taken him a very long time to achieve this goal and we couldn’t be more proud of him for the achievement. As one of Los Angeles’ premier cosmetic dentists, he knows what it takes to give you the smile of your dreams.
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Your Los Angeles Pediatric Dentist – Dr. Les Latner
June 25, 2015
If you’ve ever asked a child to help you clean up, you may have noticed that they’re not so great at it. Teaching children how to care for their dental hygiene is not easy. At Westside Dental Associates, we emphasize regular checkups and teeth cleanings for our younger visitors, as well as providing oral hygiene education. In Los Angeles, Dr. Les Lanter is the dentist you can trust to care for the whole family. If you need pediatric, general, restorative, or cosmetic dentistry in Los Angeles, call to schedule an appointment today.
Dr. Latner Knows Children’s Teeth
Every smile is different, and our smiles change during throughout our lives. Caring for children’s teeth presents different obstacles than adult treatment. Dr. Latner completed a two year dental residency at Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles. While he has become a leader in esthetic dentistry and names general dentistry as his passion, there no denying his years of hand on training make him an ideal pediatric dentist as well.
Why Teeth Cleanings Matter
Because of his years of training and experience, Dr. Latner full understand the unique needs of children from the time their primary (baby) teeth begin to emerge, through loss of primary teeth, and development of permanent (adult) teeth. One of the best ways to help your child retain healthy primary teeth is to schedule regular dental hygiene visits every six months. We all know that children are still learning to be effective cleaners. You can’t count on them to do a better job cleaning their teeth than they do making their bed. A thorough cleaning by our outstanding hygienists, and a reminder about at home care tips is essential in build a child’s oral health.
Because primary teeth are weaker than permanent teeth, they are more susceptible to caries (cavities). At regular cleanings, the bacteria on your child’s tooth is thoroughly removed just like your own teeth cleaning. Additionally, primary teeth are checked thoroughly for signs of decay, or problem areas. Sealants and fluoride treatments can also be applied to offer your child additional protection.
Keeping primary teeth strong is more important than you might think. Baby teeth, like adult teeth, help your child to chew, but they are also important as children develop speech. Our teeth allow us to speak clearly. Children whose primary teeth do not develop well, are more likely to have impeded speech. Caring for primary teeth also lays the ground work for healthy adult teeth. If your child’s primary teeth and gums are healthy, they will prepare the way for healthier adult teeth.
Find Out More
If you’re interested in learning more about the outstanding family dentistry offered by Dr. Latner and the knowledgeable Westside Dental Associates team, our convenient “ask the doctor” tool allows you to gather information between visits. Call our Las Angeles practice to schedule an appointment. Westside Dental Associates welcomes patients from surrounding areas including Santa Monica, Marina Del Ray, Beverly Hills, Calabasas, and Burbank.
Expert Los Angeles Implant Dentist
June 24, 2015
If you’re missing one or more teeth, dental implant replacement might be your best smile restoration option. Unlike traditional crown and bridge or partial and full denture replacement, dental implants are permanent and the look and feel just like your natural teeth. At Westside Dental Associates, are staff is dedicated to providing you the most relaxing, comfortable dental treatment possible. From our warm, welcoming front desk staff and waiting are to headphones and blankets for your comfort during procedures, we are committed to providing outstanding oral health care. Our dental implant therapies are no exception. Dr. Les Latner is an experienced and knowledgeable implant dentist, and he can accurately determine whether you will be a successful candidate for implants and provide safe effective implant placement. If you are missing one or more teeth, don’t just replace them, restore them with dental implants from Westside Dental Associates your Los Angeles dental leader. Call to schedule an appointment today.
Importance of Tooth Replacement
As we grow, our teeth grow with us. When a tooth is lost due to trauma, decay or gum disease, replacement is essential to maintain the bite we formed as we grew. Left untreated, missing teeth can have numerous adverse effects. The empty socket allows the rest of your teeth to shift. Often referred to as dental drift, this movement in your teeth can undo years of orthodontic straightening, or damage smiles that were naturally straight and evenly spaced. The gap in your teeth can also change the shape of your face over time making it more difficult to speak clearly and effecting your appearance. All of this can is treatable through traditional tooth replacement methods.
One hidden side effect of tooth loss that can’t be remedied with traditional tooth replacement is loss of gum tissue and jawbone density. Your gum tissue is shaped by the root of your tooth. Without a root, the gum tissue deteriorates. Bones require stimulation to maintain their density. As we go through the motions of our daily lives, our bones are stimulated by motion as we walk, sit, stand, and exercise. The same is true of our jawbone. It is stimulated by the interaction with our teeth. Without that stimulation, much like the bone density loss found in people who are bed bound, our jawbone begins to breakdown. This loss of bone density can lead to painful chewing, swallowing and talking. Loss of density puts patients at greater risk for illnesses like TMJ and obstructive sleep apnea as your face and neck shape changes due to bone loss.
The Dental Implant Difference
Implants are unique because they replace not just the visibly parts of your teeth. Dental implants are inserted below the gum line to replace teeth from the roots up. The implant is made from durable titanium that mimics the way your root supports your teeth and gums and helps maintain gum tissue and bone density. This is especially important the more teeth you need to replace. If you need several teeth in a row or a full arch replaced, you will not receive an implant to replace every tooth, but the implants that support your bridge, partial or full denture support gum tissue and jawbone density happen frequently with traditional bridges, partials and dentures.
This unique tooth replacement option does require a large time commitment. You’ll need to have at least 3 office visits to examine, implant and replace your teeth. During your first visit, Dr. Latner will examine your bite to determine whether you are a good candidate for implants. If Dr. Latner and you decide this is a good option, you will develop a customized treatment plan to restore your smile. On the second visit, Dr. Latner will place the implants outlined in your treatment plan below your gum line, and affix temporary, plastic replacement teeth. After you receive your implants, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months for the implants to full heal and fuse with your jawbone. This process called osseointegration is why dental implants help to retain gum tissue and bone density, and because your implant fuses with the jawbone, your replacement teeth are permanent. They function just like your natural teeth, and have very little or none of the slipping, cleaning, or replacement hassles of traditional dentures.
Once your dental implants have fused, they are ready to anchor your custom milled dental prosthetic. The replacement teeth are built to replicate your tooth’s natural shape and size. The porcelain material even retains the same inherent gleam that you may notice as light reflects off your smile. Your replacement teeth are permanently attached to the titanium implants, and with proper oral hygiene and regular dental examinations, dental implants will last a lifetime.
Schedule a Dental Implant Consultation
The innovative dental implant procedures are an effective method for restoring many smiles. However, some patients may not be healthy enough for the treatment, or may not have enough jawbone density to support an implant. There’s no way to know for sure except to visit our office for a dental implant consultation with Dr. Latner. Reap the benefits of Dr. Latner’s years of dental implant experience, and find out of implant replacement is right for you at West Side Dental Associates of Los Angeles. Still have some questions, use our “ask the doctor” tool to find out more information before your appointment. Call to schedule your consultation today. Our conveniently located Los Angeles practice welcomes patients from Santa Monica, Marina Del Ray, Beverly Hills, Calabasas, Burbank and beyond.
Combat Gum Recession With State-of-the-Art Treatment
June 19, 2015
If you or anyone you know has ever suffered from gum recession, you know just how debilitating this disease can be. In the past, the only way to correct this issue was by using connective tissue grafts. This complex procedure involved two surgical sites combined with a very long recovery period. The results were successful, but the pain and discomfort patients had to endure was too much to bear. Thank goodness for the 21st century and the great advancements that have been made. Now, there is treatment that can help you cope with gum recession — Pinhole Surgical Technique. What makes this system so great is it doesn’t use incisions or sutures. Simply put, it’s the finest gum surgery available at our office in Los Angeles, CA. Your gum line could use a little love, and Dr. Latner is the guy who can restore your gums back to normal.
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Porcelain Veneers in Los Angeles a Perfect Smile for a Happier You
May 30, 2015
Porcelain Veneers Perfect Your Smile for a Happier You
Celebrity smiles are flawless. Maybe it’s Photoshop, but there’s another celebrity secret to flawless teeth that anyone can take advantage of: porcelain veneers. There’s no need to frown in family photos to hide stained, chipped, misaligned, or oddly spaced teeth anymore. Porcelain Veneers are durable, comfortable and best of all, stain resistant. So your perfect, dazzling smile will last. If you want to be picture perfect for your next photo op, contact the porcelain veneer experts at Westside Dental in Los Angeles.
What are Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain Veneers are a thin, natural looking tooth restorations that can give anyone a picture perfect smile. Veneers are custom made and fitted, and patients report veneers feeling no different than their natural teeth. When you don’t feel good about your smile, it’s hard to feel good about yourself. Veneers can create a smile that will increase your self-esteem and overall happiness.
The Process
After you make the decision to restore your smile with porcelain veneers, Dr. Latner and his dedicated cosmetic dentistry staff in West LA will examine your teeth and discuss the look and feel of your porcelain veneers. Dr. Latner will plan an individualized veneer to fit your smile, taking into consideration size, shape, color and bite. Using his specifications, the veneers will be custom-created in a lab.
When your veneers return from our lab, Dr. Latner will securely place them with a bonding resin. The finishing touch is polishing your veneers to a smooth, shiny finish that perfectly compliments your smile. A highly trained cosmetic dentist, Dr. Latner is your best option for porcelain veneers and all other cosmetic dentistry in West LA.
When you don’t want to smile, it’s harder to stay positive. With porcelain veneers, you can change your entire outlook, and change the way that your friends and family see you. With porcelain veneers, your smile with be the best and brightest in every photo, and you can feel good about the way you look from day one.
Consultation
Don’t be the only person without a smile in your next family photo. Porcelain veneers are the comfortable, beautiful solution to a perfect smile. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Latner, a skilled cosmetic dentist who can help you smile more. Our West Los Angeles, CA dental practice is the best cosmetic dentistry option in Venice, Marina Del Rey, Rancho Park, Mar Vista, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Brentwood, and beyond.
Safe and Experienced Sedation Dentist in Los Angeles
May 23, 2015
When you think about making a visit to the dentist, do your palms sweat, does your heart pound, do you think you’d rather do almost anything else? You’re not alone. Millions of Americans suffer from dental anxiety, but a dental visit doesn’t have to cause you anxiety. Talk to the staff at Westside Dental today about Sedation Dentistry option.
Safe, Experienced Sedation Dentist in Los Angeles, CA
Do you avoid going to the dentist? Would you rather live with the pain of an infected tooth or gums than schedule an appointment? You’re not the only one. An estimated 40 million people suffer from some level of dental anxiety. Dr. Latner and his expert staff are here to help you have a better experience. You don’t have to live with this anxiety anymore. Call Westside Dental in Los Angeles today to find out more about how sedation dentistry can help you.
Types of Sedation Dentistry
There are a variety of options and levels of sedation dentistry. Sometimes referred to as “sleep dentistry” this is a bit of a misnomer since only patients under general anesthesia are actually asleep. Dr. Latner offers sedation dentistry that combines two types of oral conscious sedation: sedative administration and nitrous oxide.
Sedation dentistry isn’t just for those with dental anxiety. It also allows dentists to perform multiple dental treatments in a limited number of appointments. There are four levels of dental sedation: minimal sedation, moderate sedation, deep sedation and general anesthesia. While all of these sedation techniques are beneficial to dental health and patient and well being, Dr. Latner has developed a unique form of oral conscious sedation that works well for even the most anxious patients.
Dr. Latner’s Sedation Technique
Dr. Latner’s unique sedation method provides minimal to moderate sedation. Minimal sedation or traditional Oral Conscious Sedation is achieved through patients taking a sedative upon arrival at their visit. As the sedative takes effect and you become more relaxed, Dr. Latner is able to perform necessary dental procedures with less stress.
Moderate sedation is typically achieved when patients inhale Nitrous Oxide or laughing gas, they enter a state of increased peace and tranquility. While you remain aware of your surroundings, Dr. Latner is able to perform necessary dental treatments without added stress.
Dr. Latner achieved his certification in sedation dentistry while completing his residency at Children’s Hospital. They are a respected institute known for training dentists in all levels of dental practice. Dr. Latner has the experience and knowledge to offer you the best sedation dentistry experience in Los Angeles.
At Your Visit
When you arrive at the office, Dr. Latner will provide you with a mild, oral sedative. As the sedative begins to set in, one of Dr. Latner’s professional, friendly staff members will be at your side to help you in any way from grabbing a blanket to explaining the affects of the sedative.
After the sedative begins to work, Dr. Latner will administer Nitrous Oxide. As you breathe in and out, relaxation will increase. Dr. Latner is able to safely provide the optimal relaxation. While you will never lose consciousness, many patients report not remembering their appointment later.
You will need a friend or family member to drive you home from the appointment, but the side effects of oral conscious sedation are minimal and diminish quickly so you can be yourself again faster. Most patients are able to resume normal activities within 24 hours of sedation.
Find Out More
Don’t spend one more day avoiding the dentist due to fear, anxiety or stress. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Latner. The longer you wait, the higher your risk for adverse side effects of your dental health concerns. We’re here to help you overcome your fear in a safe, comfortable environment close to home. Our West Los Angeles, CA dental practice also serves reluctant patients in Venice, Marina Del Rey, Rancho Park, Mar Vista, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Brentwood, and beyond.
Westside Dental the Invisalign Dentist in Los Angeles
May 16, 2015
Want a beautiful smile without the pain and hassle of traditional braces? Invisalign might be your best option. The experts at West Side Dental in Los Angeles are waiting to help you create a smile you’re proud of.
Los Angeles’ Expert Invisalign Clear Braces Dentist
We all want to look our best and that starts with our smile. If you’ve been hiding your smile because you don’t want to display misaligned teeth and avoided braces because you’re worried a mouth full of metal won’t look any better, setting up a consultation with Westside Dental’s Orthodontic team to discuss Invisalign clear braces should be your next stop. The premier Los Angeles clear braces provider, and the expert orthodontic team will provide you with a custom plan to get your smile perfect in twelve months without the added pain and embarrassment of traditional braces.
Invisaling Vs. Traditional Braces
Traditional braces have numerous drawbacks that lead people to avoid straightening their teeth. Metal braces hurt, they keep you from eating your favorite foods, and they make you look like a teenager. There is an easier way to perfect your smile: Invisalign.
Invisalign clear braces are guaranteed to straighten your teeth in less time, with less pain. Most patients have completed their Invisalign straightening within a year. The custom-fitted alignment trays are easier and less painful than the metal braces that need to be tightened and are notoriously painful. The clear plastic alignment trays gently and comfortably straighten your teeth. No need to tighten metal wires, just switch to a new alignment tray every two weeks.
The old hassles of cutting gum and popcorn and apples out of your diet and spending extra time brushing between meals and cleaning food out of the braces are completely forgotten with Invisalign. Simply remove your tray during meals, snacks and cleanings. Then, reinsert after to continue your alignment without changing your routine. Most importantly, never miss a photo op. With Invisalign you’ll have a perfect smile from start to finish. Forget the mouth full of metal, and smile for the camera thanks to clear braces.
Westside Dental Your Invisalign Dentist
As one of the pioneer Invisalign providers, Dr. Latner and the Westside Dental team have years of experience providing patients with high quality, custom clear braces to help you straighten out your smile quickly, painlessly, and effortlessly. Using cutting edge digital imaging, Dr. Latner provides his patients with a unique treatment plan for your best smile. Don’t put off being your best self for one more day. Call us to set up your initial consultation with the West Los Angeles, CA dental practice that proudly serves patients from throughout the surrounding areas, Venice, Marina Del Rey, Rancho Park, Mar Vista, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Brentwood, and beyond.