Westlake Smile Design News!

Renovate your Confidence with a Glamorous Hollywood Smile!

2011-12-23T14:07:00.000-08:00

Have you ever wondered how did that model or movie star in the magazine you are reading get that smile? So white…so straight…so perfect!

Is it good genes? Well, the truth is that not everyone is born with a perfect, ever-lasting smile and high chances are that the smile you just saw has been designed by a professional cosmetic dentist.
This is good news…It means you can get it too!
One of the most popular procedures performed in cosmetic dentistry today is dental veneers. Porcelain veneers are thin layers of custom made shells that are placed in the front covering of your teeth allowing them to look incredibly straight, even and very white!

Each porcelain laminate is a work of art, carefully crafted in a laboratory to fit your individual smile.The enamel of the teeth is minimally reduced to fit the veneers, but a new type of veneers called Lumineers does not require teeth reduction. Both porcelain veneers and Lumineers are extremely durable, lasting from 10 to 15 years. Come visit our Agoura Hills dentists to see which type of veneer is right for you!
Two of the greatest advantages of porcelain veneers over other types of cosmetic procedures are that they have a very real tooth appearance and that they resist staining. The cost of porcelain veneers depends on the number of teeth being treated. When your are considering the cost of porcelain veneers, you must take into account all of their advantages; including their longevity and attractiveness.

What are Veneers used for?

Cover gaps between teeth.
Repair chipped or crooked tooth.
Strengthen and lengthen teeth.
Treat or whiten stained teeth.
Even out your teeth.
Allow you to design the ¨style and look¨ of you new smile.

In just a few visits you can have the smile you have always dreamed of…create the smile you want and boost up that confidence! CALL AND SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY!(805)497-9585

Orthodontics

2011-06-20T11:44:00.000-07:00

Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that deals with the diagnosis, prevention and correction of dental and facial irregularities.
Orthodontics can protect your bite, maximize your teeth's effectiveness in performing their functions and create a well-aligned smile, no matter what your age is!

At Westlake Smile design we offer the lastest advance in Orthodontics called : "Invisalign"

Orthodontics correct problems generally caused by:

A bad bite or malocclusion
Missing or extra teeth
Misaligned,Crooked or Crowed teeth
An overbite or underbite
Misaligned or incorrect jaw position
A disorder of the jaw joint

Invisalign is a revolutionary way of straightening your smile..It is Clear, virtually painless and comfortable!

CALL AND SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY! (805)497-9585

Periodontal Treatment!

2011-03-29T08:53:00.000-07:00

What you didn’t know about Gum Disease…

What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease, also called periodontal disease is a bacterial infection of the tissues and bone that support the teeth.

Gum disease is generally caused by a buildup of plaque, which is a colorless and sticky layer of germs that naturally forms on teeth and gums. This plaque contains bacteria and other particles, which produce toxins that damage your gums.

Gum disease progresses in different stages:

If plaque from teeth and gums isn't removed by good daily dental care, and regular professional care, over time it will harden into a crust called tartar, which can only be removed by a professional cleaning by a dentist or hygienist. Once tartar forms, it starts to destroy gum tissue, resulting in bleeding and weakening of the gums which causes them to pull away from the teeth, forming a pocket around the base where bacteria comes in and causes further destruction of the gums and bone. This will eventually cause so much bone loss that the teeth become loose. This is what we call Periodontitis.

What are usual signs of gum disease?

Bleeding of the gums when brushing or flossing
Red, swollen or tender gums
Receding gums
Bad breath
Loose teeth

Risk Factors of Gum Disease

Genetics plays an important role in gum disease development.
Hormonal changes in women can make gums more sensitive, allowing gum disease to develop more easily.
Diabetics are more likely to develop infections including gum disease.
Some medications affect the flow of saliva which directly affects the development of gum disease.
Smoking can increase the chances of gum disease by lowering the body’s ability to fight of the oral infection.
Systemic diseases such as cancers are strongly correlated with gum disease.

Gum Disease Treatment

Some ways we treat gum disease are:

Gum disease therapy: This involves the removal of plaque and tartar (the underlying cause of the disease) from teeth above and below the gum line.

Antimicrobials & Antibiotics: These and other medications are often used together with gum disease therapy to stop the spread of infection and inflammation in the mouth.

Surgery: If the disease if left untreated for a prolonged period, the only successful form of treatment may be surgery.

Can gum disease affect other aspects of my body as well?

Yes! There have been many studies showing a correlation between gum disease and other systemic diseases.

People with gum disease are more likely to develop heart disease. Other studies show that women with gum disease are more likely to deliver preterm, low birth weight babies. Experts agree that there is an association between periodontal diseases and other chronic inflammatory conditions, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer’s disease. Therefore, treating inflammation may not only help manage periodontal diseases but may also help with the management of other chronic inflammatory conditions. The inflammation that occurs in the gums can travel through the body, into the blood stream and to the heart, where it can lead to further inflammation.

Now you know many reasons to start caring for your dental health, visit us at Westlake Smile Design today and enjoy life with a healthy smile!

Contact Us

Please don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or concerns about
any of our dental services. Call us at 805-497-9585.

TMJ

2011-03-18T13:44:00.000-07:00

People who grind their teeth can sometimes develop a serious problem with their jaw, which left untreated, can adversely affect the teeth, gums and bone structures of the mouth.

One of the most common jaw disorders is related to a problem with the temporomandibular joint, the joint that connects your lower jaw to your skull, and allows your upper and lower jaw to open and close and facilitates chewing and speaking.

People with temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) often have a clicking or popping sound when opening and closing their mouths. Such disorders are often accompanied by frequent headaches, neck aches, and in some cases, tooth sensitivity.

Some treatments for TMD include muscle relaxants, aspirin, biofeedback, or wearing a small plastic appliance in the mouth during sleep.

Minor cases of TMD involve discomfort or pain in the jaw muscles. More serious conditions involve improperly aligned joints or dislocated jaws. The most extreme form of TMD involves an arthritic condition of the jaw joint. Traumatic injuries also can cause jaw dislocation.

In these cases, jaw surgery, may be required to correct the condition. Some jaw surgery can be performed arthroscopically.

SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT WITH OUR DENTIST IN WESTLAKE VILLAGE SO YOU CAN ENJOY THIS PROCEDURE AND MORE!

CONTACT US!

Special Offers!!

2010-12-16T08:44:00.000-08:00

CONTACT US SO YOU CAN ENJOY THIS SPECIAL!

http://www.dentistconejovalley.com/contact-us.aspx

Cosmetic Dentistry

2010-06-29T09:11:00.000-07:00

Cosmetic dentistry includes a variety of dental treatments focused on improving the appearance of your teeth and overall smile. Patients look for cosmetic dentistry because they want to change aspects of their teeth to have a more desirable smile and overall appearance.

There are different cosmetic dental procedures such as: dental fillings, dental bonding, teeth whitening, dental veneers, veneers, dental implants, dental crowns, orthodontics, gum reshaping, dental bridges, tooth contouring, dental caps, root canals, cosmetic gum surgery, reshaping dentures, to mention a few.

Cosmetic dentistry offers a great variety of options to help people obtain a radiant, beautiful and attractive smile. A charming smile can improve a person's self-esteem and self-confidence as well as how they are perceived by others.

Consmetic Dentistry includes:

SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TODAY WITH US!

www.dentistconejovalley.com

TESTIMONIALS

2010-06-11T14:29:00.000-07:00

Read what patients from Westlake Village, Agoura Hills, Newbury Park, Oak Park, Thousand Oaks and cities nearby are saying about Westlake Smile Design.

Elinor Baldwin, Agoura Hills, CA
About two years ago, I was looking for a dentist in Conejo Valley and one of my close friends recommended Dr. Hakimi at Westlake Smile Design. I was a little nervous at first, not having the best experiences at the dentist previously. To my surprise, my experience at Westlake Smile Design was phenomenal. Dr. Hakimi is warm and patient, and really cares about his work. His staff is also very pleasant and attentive. But even better, at Westlake Smile Design they use the latest in dental technology to make my experience painless and relaxed. I had never been aware some of this technology existed. Here is a dentist that cares enough to invest in his practice and his patients. I will be a loyal patient of Westlake Smile Design for as long as I can be.

Click here to read more testimonials from our fabulous patients!!!

Renovate your Confidence with a Glamorous Hollywood Smile!

2010-03-15T13:10:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wondered how did that model or movie star in the magazine you are reading get that smile? So white…so straight…so perfect!

Is it good genes? Well, the truth is that not everyone is born with a perfect, ever-lasting smile and high chances are that the smile you just saw has been designed by a professional cosmetic dentist.
This is good news…It means you can get it too!

One of the most popular procedures performed in cosmetic dentistry today is dental veneers. Porcelain veneers are thin layers of custom made shells that are placed in the front covering of your teeth allowing them to look incredibly straight, even and very white!

Each porcelain laminate is a work of art, carefully crafted in a laboratory to fit your individual smile.The enamel of the teeth is minimally reduced to fit the veneers, but a new type of veneers called Lumineers does not require teeth reduction. Both porcelain veneers and Lumineers are extremely durable, lasting from 10 to 15 years. Come visit our Agoura Hills dentists to see which type of veneer is right for you!

Two of the greatest advantages of porcelain veneers over other types of cosmetic procedures are that they have a very real tooth appearance and that they resist staining. The cost of porcelain veneers depends on the number of teeth being treated. When your are considering the cost of porcelain veneers, you must take into account all of their advantages; including their longevity and attractiveness.

What are Veneers used for?
Cover gaps between teeth.
Repair chipped or crooked tooth.
Strengthen and lengthen teeth.
Treat or whiten stained teeth.
Even out your teeth.
Allow you to design the ¨style and look¨ of you new smile.

In just a few visits you can have the smile you have always dreamed of…create the smile you want and boost up that confidence!

Let our Cosmetic Dentist near Agoura Hills design the perfect smile with dental veneers ...You too can have that dazzling Hollywood Smile!

CALL AND SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY!

(805)497-9585

Dental Implants

2010-03-04T08:12:00.000-08:00

Before development of dental implants, dentures were the only alternative to replacing a missing tooth or teeth. Implants are synthetic structures that are placed in the area of the tooth normally occupied by the root… Implants are anchored to the jawbone or metal framework on the bone and act as a foundation for an artificial tooth or permanent bridge. In some cases, implants can be used to attach dentures.

Not everyone is a candidate for a dental implant. For a successful implant to take hold, a candidate must have proper bone density and have a strong immune system.

Implants are so well-designed, they mimic the look and feel of natural teeth.Implants are usually made of titanium.

In general, good candidates who have dental implants can expect high success rates with the procedure.

The procedure can take several visits. During the first visit, an anchor is placed into the jawbone and the site is allowed to heal for several weeks or months. This gives your tissue time to grow around the anchor to more firmly hold it in place.

During a follow-up visit, an artificial, natural-looking tooth is fitted over the implanted anchor.

Types of implants
Various types of implants include full upper and lower, anterior, posterior, and single-tooth:

Full upper replacements

The upper set of teeth is replaced with implants. Procedure steps include:

– Missing tooth roots are replaced with implants, which are covered under the gum line.
– A healing period of up to six months allows implants to take.
– The implants are uncovered and extensions attached.
– Replacement teeth are affixed to the implants and extensions.

In some cases, full upper replacements can be removed.

Implants are used to replace the front teeth (also called incisors and cuspids). Procedure steps include:

• Missing tooth roots are replaced with implants, which are covered under the gum line.
• A healing period of up to six months allows implants to take.
• The implants are uncovered and extensions attached.
• Replacement teeth are affixed to the implants and extensions.

Full lower replacement
The lower set of teeth is replaced with implants. Full lower replacement usually only uses four to six implants (near the front), which are used to anchor a denture. This obviates the need for denture adhesive.

Posterior replacement
Implants are used to replace the bicuspids and molars (the back teeth). Procedure steps include:

• Missing tooth roots are replaced with implants, which are covered under the gum line.
• A healing period of up to six months allows implants to take.
• The implants are uncovered and extensions attached.
• Replacement teeth are affixed to the implants and extensions.

Single tooth replacement
Procedure steps include:

• Missing tooth root is replaced with an implant, which remains covered under the gum line.
• A healing period of up to six months allows the implant to take.
• The implant is uncovered and an extension attached.
• Replacement tooth is affixed to the implant and extension.

For more information visit our website!

www.dentistconejovalley.com

Veneers, for a bright and beautiful smile!

2010-03-04T08:07:00.000-08:00

In just two or three dental visits, a veneer can reverse years of stains caused by foods, caffeine and tobacco use. Special thin laminates, called veneers, can often be used to correct discolored, worn down, cracked and chipped teeth. Veneers can also be used to close unsightly gaps between teeth. Stronger types of veneers made of porcelain, also called composite veneers, typically last longer because they are bonded to the tooth.

An impression of the tooth must be made and a veneer molded by a lab technician. Because veneers require a small amount of enamel to be removed, they are permanent and non-reversible.

The process involves buffing the tooth, removing an extremely thin layer of the tooth to allow for the thickness of the veneer, an impression of the tooth, and final bonding of the veneer to the tooth with special cement. A special light is used to complete the process.

For more information visit our website!

www.dentistconejovalley.com

FAQs & Questions about Sedation Dentistry

2010-03-04T07:53:00.000-08:00

With Sedation Dentistry you are given a small pill to take an hour prior to your dental appointment. You have a companion accompany you to the office and by the time you arrive you will be very drowsy. When you arrive in our office, you will be escorted into the comfort room, covered with a thick, warm blanket and placed on a monitor to watch your vital signs. When your treatment is completed your companion will return you home to finish your comfortable, relaxing day.

Facts About Sedation Dentistry

It Really Works! You really can relax through your dental appointment.
It Is Safe! You take a small pill prior to treatment, no intra-venous tubes or needles.
You will have little or no memory of the experience. You won’t remember any sounds or smells.
You can relax for up to five to six hours after taking the pill. The time you are relaxing will vary depending on your needed treatment.
Complex dental treatments that often require six to eight appointments, can be done in as little as one! All while you relax.
People who have difficulty getting numb have no problem when relaxed and relaxing.
Sedation dentistry is a safe way to reduce the fatigue of extended dental treatment requiring long visits.

Common Questions

Will I feel any pain?
No. You will feel nothing!

Will I be unconscious?
No, you are in a deeply relaxed state, you are responsive.

Will I be monitored?
Yes, one of our team is always with you and your vital signs are monitored during the entire visit. You are never alone.

How long will I be relaxing?
Depending on your needs, from two to six hours.

Will someone need to accompany me?
Yes, due to the sedative effects of the medication, you will need someone to drive you to our office and home again.

Who Is a Candidate For Sedation Dentistry?
People who have . . .

- high fear
- had traumatic dental experiences
- difficulty getting numb
- a bad gag reflex
- very sensitive teeth
- limited time to complete their dental care
- complex dental problems

People who . . .
- hate needles and shots!
- hate the noises, smells and tastes associated with dental care
- are afraid or embarrassed about their teeth

For more information visit our website!

www.dentistconejovalley.com

No more Snoring!!

2009-12-16T13:49:00.000-08:00

Snoring/Sleep Apnea

In September 1995 the American Sleep Disorder Association (ASDA) endorsed oral appliance therapy as the third currently acceptable treatment modality for snoring and sleep apnea. The two most common solutions include continuous positive air pressure or the removal of either the excess palatal tissue or the uvula.

It has been estimated that 60% of men and 40% of women between the ages of 40 and 60 years of age snore. Snoring occurs when there is a partial obstruction of the airway which causes the palatal tissues to vibrate. Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the airway is completely blocked for certain periods of time. As many as 20 million people in North America may have sleep apnea. Snoring is a social problem, particularly for the spouse, but obstructive sleep apnea poses a significant health risk for the patient in that it can lead to irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, heart attacks and strokes.

Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a type of breathing disorder which is a serious, potentially life-threatening condition characterized by brief interruptions of breathing during sleep. There are basically three types of apnea:

1. Central Apnea
The upper airway is open, but no oxygen is getting into the system. This occurs because the patient is not getting a chemical response from the brain to stimulate the lungs and the diaphragm to assist with breathing.

2. Obstructive Sleep Apnea
The lungs and the diaphragm are functioning normally, but no oxygen is entering the system because there is an obstruction in the upper airway.

3. Mixed Apnea
This is a combination of central and obstructive sleep apnea.

Oral appliances are only indicated for use in patients suffering from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The signs and symptoms of OSA include snoring, excessive daytime sleepiness, gasping or choking during the night, non-refreshed sleep, fragmented sleep, clouded memory, irritability, personality changes, decreased sex drive, impotence, and morning headaches.

Factors that affect obstructive sleep apnea are as follows:

Age
Obesity
Alcohol
Sedative Hypnotics (sleeping pills)

Children can also snore and suffer from obstructive sleep apnea. Often they are highly allergic and their airway is blocked due to enlarged adenoids, tonsils or swollen nasal mucosa. Clinical signs would indicate a turned up nose, allergic shiners under the eyes, mucous draining out of the nose, mouth breathing, and a nasal sound to the voice. Other signs are bed wetting, irritability, difficulty in concentrating at school and hyperactivity

At the present time, obstructive sleep apnea is defined as a medical problem and the diagnosis must be made by a medical doctor or sleep physician (pulmonologist) who is specially trained in the area of sleep medicine.

The dental profession has an important role to play in the treatment of patients with snoring and sleep apnea. If 60% of men and 40% of women between forty and sixty years of age snore, this is a huge problem. Snoring is a serious social problem for the spouse, but obstructive sleep apnea can be a life threatening situation for the patient in that it can lead to irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure and strokes.

At the present time, obstructive sleep apnea is a medical condition that is being controlled and treated mainly by the medical profession. Despite the fact that in September 1995, the American Sleep Disorder Association finally endorsed oral appliance therapy as the third currently acceptable treatment method for snoring and sleep apnea, the vast majority of the medical doctors are not aware of the value of oral appliances.

As time goes on, the public is going to become more aware of the health risks associated with snoring and sleep apnea. It is the dental professionals responsibility to educate their members, the public and the medical profession about the important role that dentists and oral appliances play in the treatment of snoring and obstructive sleep apnea.

For more information visit our Website www.dentistconejovalley.com

CALL AND SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY! 805-497-9585

All you need to know about Sedation Dentistry!!

2009-09-30T14:06:00.000-07:00

Many people are afraid to go to the dentist because of all the pain and suffering that had been traditionally associated with dentistry. Sedation dentistry is a type of anesthesia used to make your anxiety disappear. Oak Park Dentists are using sedation dentistry with nervous patients, or on those who want to be relaxed (almost asleep), while the dental procedure is being executed.

There are different sedation methods such as: intravenous sedation, nitrogen oxide sedation, oral medications and general anesthesia.

With Sedation dentistry you won't feel any discomfort. You will be completely relaxed and your smile is going to look attractive without any pain or suffering.

With Sedation Dentistry you are given some pills to take an hour prior to your dental appointment. You have a companion accompany you to the office and by the time you arrive you will be very drowsy. When you arrive in our office, you will be escorted into the comfort room, covered with a thick, warm blanket and placed on a monitor to watch your vital signs. When your treatment is completed your companion will return you home to finish your comfortable, relaxing day.

Oral Conscious Sedation
Oral sedation is the use of a combination of pills one hour before the dental appointment to put the patient into a sedated state. Though the patient is responsive, they are often sleeping throughout the appointment, and have no memory of the appointment once it is complete. These safe pills may last up to six or seven hours. Common oral sedation medications are: Halcion, Valium, Dalmane and Versed

IV Sedation
Intravenous sedation (IV Sedation) also known as sleep dentistry is a procedure in which the dentists use a proven, safe medication to keep the patient relaxed while he/she completes the dental procedure. This drug is injected with a thin needle into a vein; it can be injected in the arm or in the back of your hand. The patient will remain conscious and will be able to respond to the dentist at all times, but will be much more relaxed.

Nitrous oxide sedation
Nitrous oxide sedation is a non-toxic and colorless gas that helps people overcome their anxieties. This Nitrous oxide is also known as laughing gas; it is safe, doesn't irritate and it removes by itself. Dentists use this gas on patients that need to be relaxed while they execute the dental procedure. The patient stays completely conscious and can respond to the dentist at all times.

VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION!

Schedule your appointment at Westlake Smile Design TODAY! 805-497-9585

Westlake Smile Design News!

Renovate your Confidence with a Glamorous Hollywood Smile!

Orthodontics

Invisalign is a revolutionary way of straightening your smile..It is Clear, virtually painless and comfortable!

Read more about Invisalign

CALL AND SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY! (805)497-9585

Periodontal Treatment!

What you didn’t know about Gum Disease…

What is Gum Disease?

Risk Factors of Gum Disease

Gum Disease Treatment

Can gum disease affect other aspects of my body as well?

Contact Us

TMJ

Special Offers!!

Cosmetic Dentistry

TESTIMONIALS

Renovate your Confidence with a Glamorous Hollywood Smile!

Dental Implants

Veneers, for a bright and beautiful smile!

FAQs & Questions about Sedation Dentistry

No more Snoring!!

All you need to know about Sedation Dentistry!!