Venice Archives - Westside Dental Associates

West Los Angeles Cosmetic Dentist Creates Flawless Smiles

Les Latner — Tue, 17 Nov 2015 09:18:44 +0000

I want you to do something for me right now: look in the mirror and smile. What grade would you give your teeth? A perfect 10? A more modest 8? If it’s anything less than that, we want you to know something. You deserve better. As your West Los Angeles cosmetic dentist, Dr. Les Latner truly believes everyone should have a flawless smile. Having beautiful teeth is good for your health, confidence and self-esteem — and that’s why the doctor loves providing excellence in cosmetic dentistry for all of Los Angeles. Read on to learn how Dr. Latner is exceptionally qualified to transform your smile — because you deserve teeth you feel great about.

Dr. Latner Is the Cosmetic Dentist Los Angeles Trusts

When it comes to experience with and passion for cosmetic dentistry, Dr. Latner is unsurpassed in Los Angeles. He currently serves on the board of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, and lectures regularly on aesthetic dentistry at the UCLA School of Dentistry, where he is proud to be a clinical assistant professor. Dr. Latner is also a leader in the Los Angeles cosmetic dentistry community. He is a founding member and president of the Los Angeles Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, which focuses on promoting the art and science of the exciting field through continuing education and other professional opportunities for its members. With years of experience to his name and a passion for helping patients achieve their smile dreams, Dr. Latner has proven again and again: he’s the cosmetic dentist Los Angeles trusts for perfect, flawless smiles.

Cosmetic Services Offered at Westside Dental Associates

Learn a little more about the cosmetic possibilities offered by Dr. Latner and his team. We’re proud to offer the following services in cosmetic dentistry. Which could your smile benefit from this year?

Porcelain veneers: Thin porcelain coverings that hide stains, chips and slightly gapped or misaligned teeth.
Teeth whitening and Zoom! Whitening: At-home and in-office treatments that can brighten dingy smiles up to ten shades.
Six Month Smiles, Invisalign and Propel: Discreet orthodontic treatment for adults looking to enhance the appearance of gapped, crowded or crooked teeth without worrying about metal brackets and wires.
Cosmetic Bonding: Quick treatment to repair the aesthetics of chipped, slightly misaligned or otherwise imperfect teeth.

Schedule Your Cosmetic Dentistry Appointment Today

If you’re interested in learning how cosmetic dentistry in Los Angeles with Dr. Les Latner and his team of professionals can improve the look of your smile, don’t wait another day. Contact us to schedule your cosmetic dentistry consultation right now! We’re ready to help you achieve your smile dreams today.

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Your Go-To Los Angeles Dentist for Root Canal Therapy

Les Latner — Tue, 13 Oct 2015 13:10:17 +0000

In ancient civilizations, people believed that root canal infections were caused by a worm that lived within a tooth, and that killing the worm healed the tooth. When this belief was debunked, historical documents indicate people believed these infections were caused by poorly aligned humors (blood, phlegm, black and yellow bile), and the method for curing root canal infection was extraction and bloodletting. Ironically, both infection removal and tooth extraction are still used to treat root canal infections today. The difference is that modern dental practitioners understand the cause of root canal infection, and can better treat the problem and remove the associated discomfort. At Westside Dental Associates, Dr. Les Latner and his skilled dentistry team help patients relieve the pain of root canal infection, and keep their smiles happy and healthy.

Root Canal Infection Facts from Your Los Angeles Dentist

Root canal infection occurs when, due to trauma or advanced decay, a tooth’s interior pulp layer is infected. The pulp contains the tooth’s nerves and blood vessels that connect with the body through canals in the root of the tooth. The tooth’s outer enamel and dentin layers are thinnest in the root, and most pulp infections are caused by bacterial buildup and decay beginning in the root. Thus, the infection and treatment are commonly referred to as root canals.
Root canal infection and any other dental concern that involves the interior of the tooth falls under the dental specialty of endodontics (endo – inside, odont – tooth).
While some patients still require extraction to treat root canal infection, most dentists will preserve natural dentition with root canal therapy.
Many patients have learned that a root canal “kills” the tooth, but this is not the case. The pulp and any infection inside the tooth are removed. This includes the nerves and blood vessels inside which were believed to be the “life” of the tooth, but after development, the tooth’s blood vessels serve no function and the nerves are pain receptors. The tooth’s enamel absorbs nutrients (fluoride and phosphates) that strengthen it from the outside.

The Root Canal Therapy Los Angeles Relies On

A recent study by the American Association of Endodontists revealed that there are roughly 40 million root canal procedures performed in the US annually, and that 85% of patients who receive root canal therapy return to the dentist who performed their procedure for future dental care. With a 95% success rate, root canal therapy retains natural dental structure, relieves pain, and puts a beautiful smile back on patients’ faces. Here’s how root canal therapy at Westside Dental Associates works:

The first step in the root canal process is removing the infected tissue within the tooth. This is done using increasingly larger files. These files look like tiny swords, and have serrated edges that pull infected tissue out of the tooth.
Once the infection is removed, patients may need to undergo a round of antibiotic treatment (topical or oral) to ensure the procedure’s success. This is more likely for severe infections that have spread to the gums or surrounding teeth.
For most patients, directly following the removal of infection, the tooth is filled with gutta percha, a biocompatible material that mimics the pulp supporting the dental structure.
Finally, the visible portion of the tooth is restored with a dental crown.

Call the Dentist 90064 Residents Trust for Pain Relieving Root Canal Therapy

If you’re experiencing extreme pain, sensitivity to heat or cold, or notice one tooth that is discolored, you may have a root canal infection. Call Dr. Latner and his dental team for pain relieving root canal therapy Los Angeles residents rely on. At Westside Dental Associates, we help patients relieve the pain of root canal infection leaving them with a smile they’re proud to share.

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Get the Best Zoom! Teeth Whitening Los Angeles Teeth whitening Los Angeles can rely on for brilliant smiles in just one visit available at Westside Dental Associates. Call today.

Les Latner — Mon, 12 Oct 2015 01:53:14 +0000

Gray, yellow, veined, and stained are not words anyone wants to use to describe a smile, but for many of us, it is the reality reflected in the mirror. Our daily eating, drinking, talking, and even aging cause tooth discoloration. Even if you manage to avoid risk factors like staining foods and drinks, smoking, and tetracycline medicines, genetics could leave you with a smile that’s not as pearly white as you’d like it to be. If you’ve tried whitening toothpastes, mouthwashes, strips, and gels with no luck, visit Westside Dental Associates for professional whitening. Our team can examine your teeth to determine the causes of your stains, and help you choose a whitening product that will brighten your smile. It all starts with a smile consultation. Call to schedule yours today.

Zoom! Teeth Whitening Process at Westside Dental Associates

Zoom! is one of the most popular professional smile brightening lines. The skilled cosmetic dentist and team at Westside Dental Associates offers in-office teeth whitening with Zoom! Our patients can have smiles up to 10 shades brighter over their lunch break. Here’s out it works:

Your appointment begins with a short photo shoot so we can compare your current smile with your results.
Soft tissue can be damaged by the peroxide agent that whitens teeth so we start by protecting your lips, gums, and cheeks.
Once your teeth are isolated and dry we coat them with the patented Zoom! whitening agent. The strength of the gel and the length of time worn can be adjusted to meet the needs of the individual patient.
What makes Zoom! so effective is the ultraviolet light used to catalyze the chemical reaction that removes stains. Peroxide is an oxidizing agent meaning it has free radicals that can attach to and breakdown other elements. This is typically considered a negative (rust and rotting food are forms of oxidation), but when applied to tooth enamel, oxidation removes deep set stains.
After your teeth are brightened, we’ll finish up with a fluoride treatment to fortify teeth and help with any sensitivity you may experience, and take photos to compare with your initial images. Patients typically see results 6 to 10 shades brighter.

The Perks of In-Office Whitening from Your Dentist Los Angeles – Dr. Les Latner

Teeth whitening isn’t just about looking younger and more attractive. While cosmetic enhancement is definitely essential, patients who whiten their teeth also report:

Keeping teeth cleaner to extend their brilliant results which reduces risk for tooth decay and gum disease
Experiencing less dental anxiety because they associate the dentist with their smile enhancement
Looking and feeling younger and more confident during personal and professional interactions

Call the Cosmetic Dentist Los Angeles Relies On for Flawless Smiles

Are you ready to have a brilliant white smile that makes you look years younger? Do you have a presentation, wedding, reunion, or other special even you want to look your best for? Treat yourself to Zoom! Whitening at Westside Dental Associates. Our Los Angeles dental team can’t wait to help you find a reason to smile.

The post Get the Best Zoom! Teeth Whitening Los Angeles Teeth whitening Los Angeles can rely on for brilliant smiles in just one visit available at Westside Dental Associates. Call today. appeared first on Westside Dental Associates.

Enhance Your Smile with Porcelain Veneers Los Angeles

Les Latner — Thu, 08 Oct 2015 21:52:41 +0000

A UK study revealed, when looking at photos of unknown people, participants believed that those with crooked, chipped, stained, or missing teeth were uneducated, poor, or unhealthy. Like it or not, people make assumptions based on appearance, so if you’re not happy with the smile you see in the mirror, let the talented team at Westside Dental Associates help. We have a wide variety of restorative and cosmetic dental services to restore, repair, or renew damaged smiles. For patients interested in a conservative, minimally invasive, cost efficient solution, porcelain veneers may be your best option to conceal multiple smile irregularities with a single procedure.

Best Veneers from the Cosmetic Dentist Los Angeles Loves – Dr. Les Latner

Dr. Latner is a founding member of the Los Angeles Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, and is well known for creating beautiful smiles. Patients throughout Southern California have entrusted their smile enhancements to Dr. Latner and the Westside Dental Associates team who bring years of experience and training to every procedure. There’s no better place to enhance your smile, and no better procedure than quick, painless porcelain veneers.

Patients typically receive veneers in two to three office visits. The first visit will be a consultation. If you determine that porcelain veneers are the right option to correct your smile flaws, Dr. Latner prepares your teeth removing a small amount of enamel from the front facing surface. Our team then takes impressions of prepared teeth and the full bite that our lab uses to craft custom porcelain veneers. A temporary veneer is placed to protect your prepared dentition, and allow you to get used to the look and feel of veneers. When your custom veneer arrives, you’ll return to our office for placement. Porcelain veneers are thin sheaths of dental porcelain that fit over the fronts of teeth. Roughly the width of egg shells, veneers require very little enamel removal for placement.

The Benefits of Porcelain Veneers at Westside Dental Associates

No matter what your age, schedule, or budget, you deserve a picture-perfect smile. Some of the many benefits of smile correction with porcelain veneers from Westside Dental Associates include:

Compared with more complex restorative or orthodontic treatments, porcelain veneers restore smiles quickly and are minimally invasive
Porcelain veneers conceal or correct numerous dental irregularities with one procedure saving money
With proper care, porcelain veneers last 25 or more years
Porcelain veneers protect weak or damaged teeth from further damage
Because they are stain resistant and mimic the reflective qualities of natural porcelain, veneers look as good as they feel for years to come

Call Your Cosmetic Dentist 90064 Residents

If you don’t like your smile, let Dr. Latner help you fall back in love. Our knowledgeable dental team can transform your smile with porcelain veneers. Still not sure porcelain veneers are right for you? Call to schedule a consultation today. We’re happy to discuss your options, and help you make the treatment choice that’s right for you.

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Your Los Angeles Dentist Helps Fight Halloween Cavities

Les Latner — Thu, 01 Oct 2015 18:56:14 +0000

When you think of Halloween you likely think kids in costumes with buckets of candy, but what most dental practitioners see is a one way ticket on the cavity express. Many holiday favorites are high in sugar and lead to tooth decay. This is especially true for our littlest smiles. Children’s teeth are still developing, and kids are not as coordinated as adults which makes cleaning teeth a challenge. That’s why it’s essential to protect kids’ teeth from decay with thorough at-home care, and six month checkups and cleanings at Westside Dental Associates.

Los Angeles Dentist Gives Kids Dental Hygiene Tips

We all know kids love Halloween. They dress up and get treats at school, at home, and from the entire neighborhood. It’s a fun, festive fall tradition that no kid should have to miss. Though high sugar foods and beverages at fall festivities put a smile on your child’s face, they may also be damaging that smile. At Westside Dental Associates, Dr. Les Latner and his Los Angeles dental team have some helpful hints to help your kids make it through the holiday cavity free.

Brush brush brush your teeth – Brushing twice a day should always be a priority, but brushing after eating high sugar foods may mean the difference between a healthy smile and a painful toothache. Monitor your child closely to ensure they brush for 2 minutes, reach all surfaces of their teeth, and make sure children don’t eat more candy after brushing.
Flossing makes a difference – Flossing can be difficult since kids often lack the dexterity to complete this task properly on their own. However, getting sugars and bacteria out of hard to reach areas with floss is essential.
Mouth wash – Don’t want to brush or floss on the go at Halloween parties or cupcake day at school? Send a small amount of kid-friendly antimicrobial mouth wash with your child to use after eating sweets.
H2O – Water is good for the whole body, and is a great alternative to the high sugar, acidic beverages often found at Halloween parties. Drinking plenty of water increases the flow of saliva that neutralizes acidic bacteria and rinses away food particles.
Monitor daily candy intake – One of the best ways to help your child maintain oral health during candy season is to limit the amount of sugar in your child’s diet. For instance, determine an appropriate number of Halloween candies to be eaten each day, and enforce it.

Thorough Teeth Cleanings from the Family Dentist Los Angeles Relies On

Another great way to keep your kids cavity free during the holidays is to bring them in for a checkup and teeth cleaning. Not only do thorough, professional cleanings remove hardened tartar that brushing and flossing alone don’t, we also help you and your child understand best brushing habits and ways to improve at-home care routines. When necessary, we provide dental sealants to protect back teeth from bacteria, and fluoride treatments to fortify enamel.

Call the Dentist 90064 Residents Love

Not ready to give up Halloween candy and Christmas cookies for good? Call Westside Dental Associates to schedule your dental cleaning today! We’ll help keep your smile cavity free.

The post Your Los Angeles Dentist Helps Fight Halloween Cavities appeared first on Westside Dental Associates.

Get Straighter Teeth With Los Angeles Invisalign Dentist Dr. Les Latner

Les Latner — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 21:59:44 +0000

High school can be brutal. Gym class, pop quizzes, lunchtime — you don’t miss it, do you? Thankfully, once we leave those halls, the list of “embarrassing” things we have to endure gets a lot shorter. For one thing, you don’t need to worry about bulky, noticeable metal braces. That’s because metal braces for adults are… well, they’re just not a thing anymore. Today, more adults are getting braces than ever before — but that doesn’t mean brackets and wires, of course. There are several excellent options for straightening adult teeth, and you’ve probably heard of the most common. It’s Invisalign: clear, removable braces that straighten your teeth faster and less noticeably than ever before. We’ve been using Invisalign for years to give adults who missed the boat on metal braces in high school the straight, beautiful teeth they deserve. In fact, Dr. Latner was one of the first general dentists to offer Invisalign — so you can trust that he knows what he’s doing.

Advantages of Invisalign

Time and time again, adults have found that Invisalign is a comfortable, fast way to straighten their teeth — without having to endure the embarrassment of traditional braces. Because Invisalign doesn’t use wires and brackets, there’s no worry about pain or irritation on your cheeks and gums. It’s also faster than traditional braces — and because it uses clear trays, no one even has to know you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment. Another big advantage of Invisalign is that the clear braces are removable — meaning you don’t have to worry about any special maintenance procedures. As long as you’re sure to wear the aligners from 20 to 22 hours each day, you can inconspicuously slip them out before meals and for cleaning, ensuring that you can eat, brush and floss just like normal.

How Invisalign Works

The FDA-approved Invisalign system uses a series of clear, removable aligners that are fitted to your unique mouth. They gently move your teeth into the desired position — invisibly. To fit you with your unique aligners, Dr. Latner will take x-rays, photos and impressions of your teeth, which allows him to create a treatment plan especially for you and your mouth. Once you get your aligners, you’ll wear a new set approximately every two weeks to advance you onto the next stage of treatment. You’ll have a checkup with your doctor approximately every six weeks — and the total treatment time is approximately one year in adults.

Invisalign — Right for You?

If you’ve got gapped or overcrowded teeth, or if you’re dealing with the effects of a bad bite — like an overbite, underbite or crossbite — chances are you’re an excellent candidate for Invisalign. The only way to know for sure is to make an appointment with Dr. Latner today! If you decide this option is right for you, you and the dentist can begin discussing your treatment plan immediately.

The post Get Straighter Teeth With Los Angeles Invisalign Dentist Dr. Les Latner appeared first on Westside Dental Associates.

Dr. Les Latner, DDS: Your Trusted Los Angeles Dentist

Les Latner — Tue, 08 Sep 2015 20:21:17 +0000

When you choose a dentist, you want to make sure he or she is someone you can trust — someone with experience, and compassion. Not only that, but you want to feel at home with the whole team so that from the very moment you walk through the door, you feel relaxed and comfortable. Dr. Les Latner and his team are that option in Los Angeles. At Westside Dental Associates, we combine years of experience with a passion for dentistry to provide our patients of all ages with the excellent dental care we believe everyone deserves. Read on to learn what makes us unique in dentistry.

About Dr. Les Latner, DDS

Dr. Les Latner has been providing top dental care for decades. He’s seen a variety of patients over the years — his record of work even includes being the dentist for the UCLA Bruins football team! Of course, he’s not just about sports dentistry. Dr. Latner keeps up with the advancements in general dentistry with his incredible involvement in a number of associations. In fact, he’s one of fewer than 10 dentists who have achieved accreditation in The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (of which he also serves on the Board) and mastership in the Academy of General Dentistry. On top of that, he is a clinical assistant professor at the UCLA School of Dentistry. He has also authored an article published in the Journal of the American College of Dentists. And to get back to his accomplishments in sports dentistry, Dr. Later was also recognized by the Sports Dentistry Commission for the World Cup in 1994 — and then chosen as a presenter at the 1986 Academy for Sports Dentistry National Symposium. As if all of that weren’t enough, Dr. Latner is also affiliated with a number of organizations — click here for a full list.

About the Team

At Dr. Latner’s office, we put a real emphasis on your comfort. We firmly believe that going to the dentist shouldn’t be something you dread, and we want you to feel relaxed and at home from the minute you walk in our door. That’s why we have a gentle, caring and knowledgeable staff that is equipped with all the comforts you need to feel at ease — like pillows, headphones and blankets. We also stay up-to-date on all the latest dental advancements in order to provide you with the top in comfort. For example, we now offer air abrasion instead of the drill, sedation dentistry and DIAGNOdent laser cavity detection. These are all options Dr. Latner’s office provides to make your trip to the dentist easier, and more pain free than ever before.

Come In To See For Yourself

Dr. Latner is your trusted pediatric, cosmetic and general dentist in Los Angeles. Schedule your appointment in our office and see for yourself today! We’ll never get tired of seeing your beautiful smile.

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Gum Disease Therapy form the Dentist Los Angeles, CA Trusts

Les Latner — Mon, 20 Jul 2015 19:23:02 +0000

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.

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Your Los Angeles Pediatric Dentist – Dr. Les Latner

Les Latner — Thu, 25 Jun 2015 18:45:58 +0000

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.

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Expert Los Angeles Implant Dentist

Les Latner — Wed, 24 Jun 2015 15:16:37 +0000

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.

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