- Dental ExaminationAt Smiles in Malibu, we take the time to get to know our patients and listen to their concerns regarding their oral health. After a thorough oral exam, if further attention is needed, we create a treatment plan that restores your mouth to optimal oral health.
- Teeth Cleaning
- FillingsAmalgam fillings require that a certain amount of healthy tooth structure be removed. The tooth needs to be prepped in such a way as to hold in the packed filling material. Often a dove-tailed or tongue-in-groove method is used to hold the filling in place. Silver fillings can become loose over time and create tiny spaces where bacteria can build up and cause decay. Composites do not create these problems.
- Resin CompositeTooth colored filling, or composites as they are also called, have been used as fillings for anterior teeth for decades beginning in the 1960s. Until fairly recently, silver fillings or amalgam was used to fill cavities in molars because of its stability and durability. Composite resins were not strong enough to endure the hundreds of pounds of force back teeth endure every day. Advancements in dental technology and materials in
- VeneersWhen you feel your smile is less than appealing due to imperfections in your teeth, you may be a good candidate for porcelain veneers. Porcelain veneers can
- CrownsSo, the previous paragraphs have hopefully foreshadowed the answer to the question of treatment of TMJ problems. First and foremost a new bite position needs to be established. IN my strong opinion in almost all cases this means more than adjusting the bite in it’s present position, It is true that TMJ symptoms can be provoked by a new crown that is too high (hitting prematurely). There are other circumstances where the bite does not need to be changed but where balancing of the bite in it’s present anterior posterior position will bring about relief of the TMJ symptoms. I have found in my practice that overwhelmingly my TMJ patients have retruded lower jaws and often compromised airways as well. Bites that provoke TMJ symptoms are all bites that create high muscle activity (EMG’s) and the answer is always to advance the bite position.
- BridgesWhen you have large gaps due to missing teeth, a dental bridge may be recommended. The dental bridge uses artificial teeth suspended on a “bridge” between two crowns placed on the adjacent teeth.
- Dental BondingCosmetic bonding can be used in a variety of ways to produce a better looking smile. Bonding can be used to reshape or contour teeth. Short teeth can give your smile a stunted look, but dental bonding can lengthen them and/or widen them to produce a more appealing smile.
- Restorative DentistryIt is important to replace missing teeth as soon as possible to prevent other dental problems from developing. Missing teeth can change your appearance subtly or dramatically, depending on how many and which teeth are lost. Not only are your teeth necessary for proper mastication of food, but they also provide structure for your facial features by supporting your lips and cheeks. When teeth are missing, your face can look sunken; lips can collapse, causing you to look much older than your age. Restorative dentistry from
- Root Canal TreatmentCleaning out the decay and filling the tooth may relieve the pain and repair the tooth. An infected tooth may need root canal therapy in order to relieve pain and save the tooth. If a tooth is badly infected and severely decayed, it may need to be removed. A thorough examination will reveal the reason for the pain and allow your dentist to make recommendations on how to alleviate it.
- Gingivectomy and GingivoplastyThe gingivectomy is a simple procedure. Gum tissue can be removed by a soft tissue laser called electrosurge or it can be removed by traditional surgery methods. After thoroughly examining your teeth and gums, your dentist will advise you on your options and recommend the option that will produce the best results.
- DenturesRestorative procedures for replacing missing teeth. Not only do dental implants look and feel more like your natural teeth, but they also provide stability that is unmatched by removable dental prosthetics such as traditional dentures and partials. For replacement of a single tooth, dental implants are ideal.
- Dental ImplantsDental implants are one of the best methods of replacing missing teeth. Read more about this procedure by clicking on the link below...
- Oral SurgeryAs with any procedure we perform, your physical safety remains our top concern. To prepare for an appointment in which you will receive IV sedation, do not eat or drink anything for eight hours prior to your procedure, except for prescription medications, unless advised otherwise. While you are under sedation, we closely monitor blood pressure, breathing, and heart rate. After your dental work, we stop the IV and let you rest comfortably for 15 to 20 minutes before you leave our office. If necessary, we prescribe pain management medication after your visit, particularly after an oral surgery. You must arrange to have a responsible adult drive you home from your appointment and remain with you until drowsiness wears off. You should be able to resume normal activities the day after the appointment.
- Tooth ExtractionsAnd, if these two strong reasons aren’t enough to end tooth extractions for the purpose of straightening teeth we must add that when you bring teeth and jaws back into the face you limit tongue space and compromise the airway. There is no way to dispute this...
- OrthodonticsBob started a dental practice in Malibu in 2008 after owning and operating a successful dental practice in Glendale for 17 years. Bob has completed over 1000 hours of dental continuing education, many of those hours have been devoted to orthodontics, orthopedics, orthotropics, and TMD (refer to our headings on the home page for more detailed information). Bob has shifted his practice in recent years to have a greater emphasis on a broader approach to facial esthetics, one that strives to create a balanced face, gorgeous teeth, proper airway, and a life free of facial and neck pain. He has devoted more than 20 years to the passionate pursuit of combining art, science, and technology with personalized care.
- Invisalign OrthodonticsInvisalign is an FDA-approved orthodontic treatment that straightens teeth discreetly. Clear plastic aligners are used to move your teeth into the desired position. These custom-made aligners are changed every two weeks. Because the aligners are clear, they are barely noticeable to the casual observer.
- BracesTraditionally, braces were only worn by teens and pre-teens for straightening teeth. Now, more adults and older teens are wearing braces. About a fifth of all orthodontic patients are now adults. Even older adults are opting to have their teeth straightened.
- Teeth WhiteningCosmetic dental procedure is teeth whitening. This procedure can make you look years younger just by brightening your teeth. At Smiles in Malibu, we use the Opalescence system of teeth whitening with our patients.
- Cosmetic DentistryIt would be nice if everyone had the perfect smile, but that is seldom the reality. No matter the flaws in your smile, there is a dental procedure to correct the problem. Cosmetic dentistry enhances the appearance of your smile.
- General DentistryBest experience possible for all our patients. We provide you with a complete array of general dentistry services and treatments. Our commitment to prevention is highlighted with our comprehensive dental examinations and professional cleanings to ensure your teeth and gums are healthy.