Procedures

What recent advancements have been made concerning tooth fillings ?

In the past, dental fillings and other tooth restorations were made of gold, amalgam and other metals. Now, dental fillings and crowns can be made entirely of porcelain or composite materials that more closely mimic the appearance of the natural structure of the tooth.

How do porcelain or composite fillings compare to silver (amalgam) fillings ?

Composite fillings previously were not as durable as amalgams. However, dental manufacturers have made great strides in improving the strength of composite resin materials, to the effect that composite fillings now have the potential to be used for all teeth, including molars. Furthermore, composite materials often require less tooth preparation and may not weaken the affected tooth as much as amalgam fillings, which often require more extensive tooth preparation. However, amalgam fillings do have a long-term track record and may last longer than composite fillings.

Does the application of composite or porcelain fillings take longer than silver (amalgam) fillings?

The procedure itself requires up to 50% more time than the amalgam filling procedure.Composite filling restoration also requires the use of additional equipment. These factors contribute to the higher costs associated with composite fillings. In addition, most dental insurance companies do not cover the additional costs associated with composite fillings.

How are these porcelain or composite material applied to the teeth ?

These tooth colored materials are bonded to the underlying structure of the tooth with resin adhesives. Unlike silver fillings (amalgams) they are entirely free of mercury.

About Dr. Thanos

Specialising in Pediatric Dentistry.

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Dr. Thanos was born in Athens, Greece. His first visit to the United States was in 1964 when he was invited as an American Field Service Exchange Student. He went on to attend Franklin and Marshall College in Lancaster, Pennsylvania as a Fulbright Scholar, one of the highest academic honors a student can earn.

In 1971, Dr. Thanos received his dental degree from the University of Athens, Greece. For the next two years he continued advanced studies at the University of London, England where he specialized in pediatric dentistry at the Eastman Dental Hospital. In 1973, Dr. Thanos was a postdoctoral scholar at the UCLA School of Dentistry where he furthered his studies in biomaterials science and pediatric dentistry. He completed his fellowship and received certificates in both pediatric dentistry and cranio-facial genetics at UCLA Harbor Hospital.

In 1977, Dr. Thanos joined the faculty of the University of Southern California School of Dentistry. He served as a chairman of the department of Advanced Pediatric Dentistry from 1979 to 1985. During that period, he initiated the Specialized Clinic of Esthetic Dentistry where he served as director until 1992.

Dr. Thanos is not only a gifted dentist, he is also a respected scientist in his field and has published numerous research monographs. He is considered a pioneer in the field of esthetic dentistry. He has been participating in the Torrance community for over thirty years.

About Dr. Dalis

Specialising in General and Cosmetic Dentistry.

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Dr. Dalis is a lifelong South Bay resident, having grown up in Torrance, with strong ties to the community. He attended the University of Southern California where he earned his undergraduate degree in exercise physiology. Upon graduation, he attended the USC School of Dentistry where he was awarded his certificate.

Dr. Dalis is trained in all aspects of dentistry including all the latest cosmetic treatments, implants, endodontics, and the utilization of digital X Ray technology. He is an active member of the American Dental Association, the California Dental Association and the Western Los Angeles Dental Society. Dr. Dalis' frequent attendance of continuing education courses keeps him up to date on all the latest topics and procedures in the field of dentistry and oral care.

Dr. Dalis has lectured for the American Cancer Society in the areas of oral cancer and tobacco cessation. In addition, he served on the scientific health and advisory board of Redondo Union High School. In his free time, he enjoys relaxing, playing beach volleyball, hiking, and has a love for music, movies and travel.

Forms And Notices

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Intake Information

Patient Information and Insurance Data

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Notices

Prop 65 and other Legal Notices

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Pediatric Intake Forms

Patient Information For Children

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