Blog Archive

Sugar-Free Drinks & Snacks – Are They Still Bad for Your Teeth? May 24th, 2016

Cutting out the excess sugar in your diet will definitely be in your best interest not just for your waistline but for your oral health. Typically, tooth decay occurs when harmful bacteria in your mouth feed on sugar and produce acids. These acids remove minerals in your tooth’s enamel and...

Spear Education Mar 4th, 2015

As part of our commitment to your oral health, we receive continuing education from Spear. Spear is dentistry’s leading provider of continuing education for clinical expertise and practice growth.

Thank you… Dec 19th, 2014

…for your generosity and thoughtful gifts.

Holiday Hours Dec 18th, 2014

Happy Holidays from all us.  It’s been a joyful year and we would like to thank our wonderful patients for making it so.  We look forward to seeing all of you in 2015! HOLIDAY HOURS: We will be closed December 24, 2014 through January 1, 2015. We will be open on...

CEREC Jun 13th, 2014

Dr. Tapia is hard at work at a CEREC conference, learning about all ofthe latest technology to make the perfect crown for your teeth!

Whitening Your Teeth: What You Should Know Apr 28th, 2014

Teeth whitening remains one of the most economical and conservative procedures available to enhance ones smile. Over a life time, teeth will get discolored for different reasons. Internal tooth discoloration is caused by changes in the enamel of the tooth and the dentin. The main causes of internal tooth discoloration...

Our Coloring Contest Winners! Mar 13th, 2014

Thank you to all the wonderful children who entered our Coloring Contest to raise awareness for Children’s Dental Health. We have contacted the winners individually and would like to share their awesome drawings with you today. Have a great week, and keep those teeth healthy!

We’re Open! Mar 12th, 2014

At Dentistry By Design, we know how hard it can be to fit a visit to the dentist’s office into your schedule. That’s why we have decided to open our offices for one Saturday a month, so those who can’t find the time during the week, can still keep a...

The ASICS LA Marathon Mar 11th, 2014

The ASICS LA Marathon was this past Sunday, and it was truly a wonderful experience. Thank you to all who donated to support St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. I really believe we helped make a difference. I wanted to share with you a few of the photos I took along...

Sunday is the ASICS LA Marathon Mar 8th, 2014

Sunday is the big day! On March 9, Dr. Tapia will be participating in the ASICS LA Marathon to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. If you haven’t donated yet, please take the time to do so; we still have time to reach our goal! Just visit Dr. Tapia’s St. Jude...

Hello All Mar 3rd, 2014

I am very happy to announce that I will be running in the ASICS LA Marathon this Sunday, March 9, in support of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Those of you who know St. Jude’s know how important their work is. Not only do they offer advanced patient care to...

ADA Coloring Contest – Kids 15 and under Jan 24th, 2014

Each February the American Dental Association (ADA) sponsors National Children’s Dental Health Month to raise awareness about the importance of oral health. In recognition, we  will be sponsoring a coloring contest for this special month!  Please submit letter size posters with drawings of how to maintain healthy teeth.  Be creative...

Care For Health Dec 23rd, 2013

I believe in a healthy lifestyle. I started to run during my postgrad program at UCLA and since then it has become a lifestyle. I am thankful for my health today. This year we have decided to appreciate the gift of health that life has given to us so far. We would...

The Pacific Palisades Chamber of Commerce November Mixer Nov 23rd, 2013

We were thrilled to host the November Mixer for the Pacific Palisades Chamber of Commerce on the 12th of this month. These mixers provide an excellent opportunity for local business owners to get to know each other better, and, for us, it was also a great chance to learn more...

Reminder: We Have Moved- October 11, 2013 Nov 11th, 2013

Tapia Moves Her Dental Office to 881 Alma Real Dr. Maria Elena Tapia, DDS, will sponsor the next Pacific Palisades Chamber of Commerce networking breakfast at 8 a.m. on Thursday, September 12 at Matthew’s Garden Cafe, 859 Swarthmore Ave. (across from CVS). The cost is $15 and a R.S.V.P. is...

November Chamber of Commerce Mixer at Dentistry by Design Nov 8th, 2013

The Pacific Palisades Chamber of Commerce invites you to attend the NOVEMBER MIXER hosted by Maria Elena Tapia, DDS Tuesday, November 12, 2013 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. “Business After Hours” Drawing! Networking! Non-Members: $25 881 Alma Real Dr., Ste. 205APacific Palisades, CA 90272 Support Your Pacific Palisades Chamber of CommerceFor further...

Happy Halloween! Oct 29th, 2013

Happy Halloween from all of us at Dentistry by Design! Dr. Tapia’s office is a Halloween Candy Buy Back location! Please bring us your candy and we will give you $1 for every pound. The candy we buy back will be sent to the troops! A Healthier Halloween Halloween is...

Reminder: We Have Moved Oct 11th, 2013

Tapia Moves Her Dental Office to 881 Alma Real Dr. Maria Elena Tapia, DDS, will sponsor the next Pacific Palisades Chamber of Commerce networking breakfast at 8 a.m. on Thursday, September 12 at Matthew’s Garden Cafe, 859 Swarthmore Ave. (across from CVS). The cost is $15 and a R.S.V.P. is...

Village Fair in the Pacific Palisades Oct 3rd, 2013

This past Sunday we participated in the Pacific Palisades Chamber of Commerce Village Fair.  We met some wonderful people and helped children decorate pencil bags!  We also had a raffle where one lucky child will receive an electric Oral B toothbrush. Thank you to all those that came out, we had a...

A Message from Maria March 6, 2013 Jun 2nd, 2013

March is Women’s History Month and we would like to celebrate the birthday of Lucy Hobbs, the first female dentist. Hobbs was born March 14, 1833 and her accomplishments made it possible for all women to follow the dream of becoming a dentist. Like Hobbs, I chose this profession because...

We Are Moving! Apr 23rd, 2013

Hope you are having a nice April. We have been working very hard on a new and exciting project and we are proud to announce that we are moving to a new location in July. Don’t worry, we aren’t moving very far. We will be right down the street in...

Patient Safety is Our Top Priority Apr 23rd, 2013

Maria Elena Tapia, D.D.S. & Associates is committed to protecting the health and well-being of every patient that we serve.  Our office follows the highest ethical conduct and standards of professional care as set fourth by the American Dental Association (ADA) infection control protocols and best management practices. Patient safety...

Barbara & Ellen Win Drawing! Mar 5th, 2013

We are excited to announce that Barbara & Ellen will be enjoying a delicious breakfast or lunch at Matthew’s Garden Cafe. They are the winners of our February drawing for the $50.00 gift certificates. Be on the look out for another fun drawing from your friends at Palisades Dentistry Group. Matthew’s...

Happy Birthday Lucy Hobbs Taylor Mar 4th, 2013

Back in 1861, Lucy Hobbs became the first female dentist, paving the way for women who want to follow a career in dentistry. In the 1800’s, women were not allowed in dental school. For some, this might have been a roadblock but not for Hobbs. She began a private program...

Palisades Dentistry Group Introduces The NOMAD Feb 28th, 2013

Palisades Dentistry Group is excited to announce the addition of the NOMAD, one of the safest dental handheld units available in the market. The innovative handheld design improves dental radiography speed, convenience, and quality. It’s twice as fast as conventional x-ray systems and reduces the number of retakes by up...

Los Angeles Italia Film, Fashion and Art Fest Jan 31st, 2013

The Los Angeles Italia Film, Fashion and Art FestAngeles Italia Film, Fashion and Art Fest is a full week of celebration for the Italian cinema, music, fashion and style. Whether you’re Italian or just love spaghetti, or if you’re a cinephile or just like free movies, you’ve gotta love the...

A Message from Maria February 1, 2013 Jan 31st, 2013

During the month of February, we think about doing something special for the ones we love and care about.  Valentine’s Day is just around the corner.  It’s a time where we think about giving gifts from the heart.  What better gift to give the one you love than good health? ...

Alternatives to Periodontal Treatment Jan 30th, 2013

It’s important to get your disease under control. First, we’ll thoroughly discuss all of your treatment options. Treatments include performing a scaling and root planing procedure to remove plaque and tartar below the gum line, inserting medicine at the infection site, and, in certain cases, surgery. Click to watch this...

Preventative Brushing Jan 30th, 2013

If you don’t want to get cavities, you have to brush your teeth. Here’s how to do it the right way. Proper tooth brushing involves five things: a toothbrush with soft bristles, toothpaste with fluoride, brushing long enough, the correct brushing action and brushing at least twice a day. Click...

Preventative Flossing Jan 29th, 2013

When two of your child’s teeth are touching, it’s time to start flossing. Just as adults do, children need to remove the cavity-causing plaque and bacteria from between the teeth where a toothbrush can’t reach. Click to watch this informative video on preventative flossing.

Win a gift certificate to Matthew’s Garden Cafe Jan 29th, 2013

Have Lunch or Breakfast on us! We will be having a drawing where one of our lucky patients will win a $50 gift certificate to enjoy a delicious breakfast or lunch at Matthew’s Garden Café. To enter the drawing all you have to do is click here post your comments about your...

Good Dental Hygiene Essential in Fight Against Heart Disease Jan 29th, 2013

Research suggests link between oral health and heart health As part of February’s American Heart Month, and in an effort toincrease oral health awareness, the California Dental Association is encouraging you topractice good oral hygiene habits to help keep your mouth and heart healthy. Studies have demonstrated an association between...

What is Minimally Invasive Dentistry? Jan 28th, 2013

What is Minimally Invasive Dentistry?

A Great Resolution for Healthy Teeth Jan 1st, 2013

Now that the holidays are over and you have enjoyed your last piece of pumpkin pie, you are determined to work out, get in shape and lose those extra pounds you gained at all the holiday parties.  You are going to eat right and exercise.  While this is going to...

Happy New Year from Our Family to Yours Jan 1st, 2013

As the new year begins, we often look back at what we have done and plan for the things we would like to do. Here are some of our resolutions and thoughts for 2013? Dr. Tapia: 2012 was amazing, and I hope 2013 is even better!!Dr. Wagner: To race in...

L.A. County Holiday Celebration! Dec 15th, 2012

A medley of seasonal music and dance is on display at this year’s L.A. County Holiday Celebration! Bands, choirs and dance companies representing the diverse cultures and holiday traditions of L.A. will take the stage at this FREE three-hour extravaganza – even the parking is free! The fun happens Monday,...

Who Made That Dental Floss? Dec 15th, 2012

A good dental hygiene regiment includes daily flossing.  “Floss the ones you want to keep.”  Dentists have been urging their patients to floss as far back as the 1800s.   Pagan Kennedy published an interesting article about the history of dental floss October 19, 2012, NYTimes.com   In the early 1800s, a...

A Message from Maria Dec 03 Dec 3rd, 2012

I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving and are enjoying the cool sunny days of December in Southern California.  The holidays are right around the corner.  I can’t believe that the year is almost over.  No matter how you plan to spend this holiday season whether it’s celebrating the festival...

Marina del Rey 50th Boat Parade Dec 3rd, 2012

Coming Saturday, December 8th, it’s the annual Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade.  The parade started back in 1963 when there were only 100 boats in the Marina and almost no buildings.  Back in the day, the Marina had no breakwater and very few boat owners.  The parade was a...

6,500 Year Tooth Found with Beeswax Filling Dec 3rd, 2012

It just might be that dentistry is the world’s oldest profession.  On September 19, 2012 Italian researchers published an article in the journal PLoS One that may provide evidence of early dentistry.  A 6,500-year-old human jawbone was discovered with a beeswax filling.  The beeswax was probably applied to ease pain...

Xylitol: Sweet News for Preventing Cavities Nov 15th, 2012

What is xylitol?Xylitol is a natural sugar alcohol that helps prevents cavities. You may recognize other sugar alcohols used in sugarless products, such as mannitol and sorbitol. Xylitol is the sugar alcohol that shows the greatest promise for cavity prevention. It is equal in sweetness and volume to sugar and...

Westside Thanksgiving Community Dinner & Celebration Nov 10th, 2012

Last year more than 1,200 volunteers served 2,500 meals and distributed tons of clothing and blankets.   The event provided hundreds of children’s immunizations, haircuts and free medical consultations. The Westside Thanksgiving Community Dinner & Celebration brings together an inter-faith collection of groups and individuals in a wonderful celebration of Thanksgiving. ...

A Message from Maria Nov 02 Nov 2nd, 2012

The month of November is very special for me. It is a wonderful time to reflect on all those people who are important to us.  I am so thankful to have an opportunity of practicing dentistry.  In saying that I want you to know how much I appreciate being your...

Fun at the Fair Nov 2nd, 2012

It was a lot of fun being a part of the 15th annual Village Fair.  What a great way to kick off the holiday season.  Thanks to everyone who stopped by to say hello.

KöR Whitening Deep Bleaching Oct 20th, 2012

Palisades Dentistry is proud to offer KöR Whitening Deep Bleaching. KöR Whitening Deep Bleaching is the newest, most revolutionary and effective teeth whitening system ever developed.     Dr. Rod Kurthy, CEO of Evolve Dental Technologies and Whitening Science Expert, discusses the KöR Whitening Deep Bleach System as it “snows...

A Message from Maria Oct 4th, 2012

October is here and with it comes cooler weather and the beautiful colors of fall. “Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower.” ~ Albert Camus I love this time of year in the Palisades especially when the community gets together at the annual Village Fair. The...

Maximize Dental Insurance Oct 4th, 2012

Get the most out of your dental insurance plan. Most insurance plans have an annual maximum benefit. If you do not use this maximum amount, the remaining balance is lost at the end of the year. Take a few moments to review your plan so that you can get the...

Stop Zombie Mouth! Oct 4th, 2012

Look out the Putrid Posse is coming! Halloween is just around the corner. You can almost hear the little ghosts and goblins saying “Tick or Treat.” But wait there is another sound, the moan and groan of the Putrid Posse. They are coming after the mouths of kids everywhere. We...

Maria Elena Tapia, DDS Aug 11th, 2012

I enjoy life, and I live it to the fullest with everything I do!  I surround myself with positive people and I hope to make a positive impact on others as well. One of the strongest values I have is honesty.  I believe it is instrumental for building strong relationships....

Michael Whang, DDS Aug 11th, 2012

  Dr. Michael Whang is a specialist in Periodontics, whose duties include esthetic gum procedures, management and treatment of gum disease, and surgical placement of dental implants. Committed to the pursuit of higher learning and the value of education, he dedicates his time as a lecturer at the UCLA School...