Westside Dental Associates

Dental Care 101: Should You Invest in an Electronic Toothbrush?

November 22, 2014

494297595There’s a reason that there is so much buzz nowadays about the benefits of electronic toothbrushes. Electric toothbrushes are rechargeable and c oscillate, vibrate, rotate or use sonic technology to better clean your teeth. Electric toothbrushes also come with special modes for sensitive teeth, gum massage and whitening. Some may feature pressure sensors that let you know if you’re brushing too hard, or feature digital reminders to replace your brush head. You should try using an electronic toothbrush to experience the benefits. But remember it’s just as important to see a dentist regularly for deep cleanings to keep your teeth and gums as healthy as possible. Make an appointment with Dr. Latner...

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Pediatric Dentistry: What is Dental Fluorosis?

November 15, 2014

120104044Check any tube of toothpaste on the market today, and you will see that fluoride is at the top of the list of ingredients. That’s because fluoride can prevent cavities and even reverse early tooth decay. But studies have shown that if young children are given too much fluoride they can develop severe tooth discoloration, known as fluorosis. The problem is that many years ago, we recognized the benefits of fluoride so we set minimum fluoride requirements in public water sources. It’s estimated that the fluoride in our tap water has reduced cavities by as much as 40%. Today however, we also include fluoride in all dental care products including toothpaste,...

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Are Your Dental Fillings Causing Problems?

November 10, 2014

119950032If you have ever had dental cavities that required dental fillings, you know may have noticed a temporary increase in sensitivity or discomfort after your treatment. This is perfectly normal. However, it is not normal to experience discomfort, sensitivity or pain lasting more than a couple of weeks after your treatment. You can make an appointment with Dr. Latner at Westside Dental Associates today for your pain and sensitivity concerns. Westside Dental Associates serves patients throughout West Los Angeles and surrounding areas including Brentwood, Santa Monica, Venice, Beverly Hills, Marina del Rey, Rancho Park and Mar Vista. Common Problems with Dental Fillings

Risk Factors and Symptoms of Oral Cancer

October 29, 2014

187921993Over 30,000 people are diagnosed with oral cancer each year. It is more common among men than women, and risk factors include excessive tobacco use, alcohol use and sun exposure. About 20 -30% of head and neck cancers have been linked to HPV (human papillomavirus) infections. HPV involves a type of oral cancer that attacks the back of the tongue and the tonsils. Oral cancer can form anywhere in or around the mouth, on the lips, inside the cheeks, on the gums, on the tongue, on the roof of the mouth, or on the surfaces underneath the tongue. As with any cancer, early detection is vital. Make an appointment with Dr. Latner...

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How Effective Are Toothache Pain Home Remedies?

October 22, 2014

462459381If you have ever had a toothache, you know that it is one of the worst kinds of pain you can experience. If you have a severe toothache, it is a dental emergency and you should get to a dentist as soon as possible. However, you may find yourself in a situation where you can’t see a dentist immediately. If this is the case you may be tempted to try anything that can stop or even dull the pain temporarily. We found some home remedies that may help relieve the pain while you wait to see the dentist. It’s important to keep in mind that the best way to deal with a toothache is...

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Pediatric Dental Care: Healthy Halloween Advice

October 15, 2014

57612597It’s that time of year again. Halloween is upon us, and if you have kids at home, you could soon be fighting off waves of sugar-induced energy and excitement. While you want your kids to enjoy the holiday, you may have concerns about how Halloween affects their dental health. Consider our advice and then make an appointment with Dr. Latner as Westside Dental Associates. Dr. Latner specializes in both adult and pediatric dental care. Dr. Latner helps families keep their healthy smiles year round throughout Los Angeles, CA, Brentwood, Santa Monica, Venice, Beverly Hills, Marina del Rey, Rancho Park, Mar Vista and the surrounding communities. Pediatric Dental Care: How to...

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Dental Care at Night

October 10, 2014

166620328Taking good care of your teeth and gums is a 24/7 endeavor. You may already know that dentists recommend brushing in the morning and before you go to sleep at night, but you may not be aware of other steps you should be taking at night to protect your oral health. Get informed and then make an appointment to see Dr. Latner at Westside Dental Associates. Dr. Latner specializes in preventative and restorative dental care for patients throughout West Los Angeles, CA, Brentwood, Santa Monica, Venice, Beverly Hills, Marina del Rey, Rancho Park, Mar Vista and the surrounding communities. Nightly Dental Care Routine Having a good dental care routine at...

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Are Genetic Dental Problems a Myth?

September 29, 2014

177035393The answer to this question is both yes and no. Genetic dental problems are no myth. Scientists have found that genetic factors cause about 60% of the risk for tooth decay. While tooth decay isn’t an actual gene in the body, your genes do determine factors that are directly related to your ability to avoid tooth decay. Dr. Latner is an experienced Los Angeles area dentist that can help you find a treatment plan to fix your dental problems if you find yourself on the losing end of genetic tooth decay risk factors. Genetics Can Increase the Risk of Developing Dental Problems You can’t blame your parents for all of...

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Three Cheers for Laser Dentistry!

September 22, 2014

160047568Dentistry has come a very long way in a relatively short time period. Advancements in Laser Dentistry have made many routine dental treatments less invasive and have significantly cut down on the time required for treatment and healing. By eliminating the need for incisions, certain laser dentistry procedures do not require anesthesia. Laser dentistry also minimizes bleeding because the high-energy light beams aid in the clotting of exposed blood vessels, thereby inhibiting blood loss. Lasers are useful for patients who are fearful of dental work, don’t like anesthesia, or don’t like the sound of the drill. Dr. Latner utilizes laser technology in his practice to aid in the comfort of...

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Pediatric Dentistry and Sports

September 15, 2014

76649015No matter how old your children are, protecting their teeth is a top priority. Injuries to teeth have the potential to affect your child for the rest of his or her life. The key to protecting their beautiful smiles is prevention. You should start bringing your child to regular dentist appointments as early as age two. As they grow and become more active in activities like soccer, football, karate and cheerleading, it becomes necessary to protect their teeth from sports injuries as well. If you’re thinking about allowing your child or teen to participate in contact sports, contact Dr. Latner for an appointment today. Dr. Latner serves families (Read More)