Dr. Steven K. Okamoto graduated with a Doctorate of Dental Surgery in 1984 from the University of California, Los Angeles. Immediately following graduation, Dr. Okamoto began practicing in his current location in Torrance, California while also completingresidenciesin both Hospital Dentistry at the Center for Health Sciences and Prosthodontics at UCLA.

Dr.Okamoto is a member of the American Dental Association, the California Dental Association,the American College of Prosthodontics, the Academy of Osseointegration as well as a member of the Board of Directors to the Dean at UCLA School of Dentistry.He is also a member of the West Los Angeles, OrangeCounty and Japanese American dental societies.

Dr. Michelle Okamoto, a second generation 2013 graduate of the University of California, Los Angeles School of Dentistry, is more than honored to be working side-by-side with her father, Dr. Steven K. Okamoto, and his amazing team! Born in Torrance, and raised in Irvine, Dr. Michelle Okamoto began working in her fathers dental office at the age of 14. Following graduation from Pepperdine University, where she received her Bachelors of Science in Biology, she spent her four years at dental school active in numerous leadership roles.

Dr. Okamoto served as President of American Association of Women Dentists; as well as UCLA School of Dentistrys Associated Student Body Vice-President. During her time at UCLA she had an opportunity to take part in a dental missions trip to Honduras, and participate in a Japanese Dental Student Exchange Program with Asahi and Meikai Universities in Japan.

For her contributions and leadership, Dr. Okamoto was recognized with many senior dental student awards upon graduation including the American College of Dentists Outstanding Student Leader Award, an award that recognizes a senior dental student who demonstrates leadership and outstanding scholastic performance, the Comprehensive Patient Care Award, the Excellence in Esthetic Dentistry Award; as well as the Wyatt Rory Hume (Community Service and Leadership) and the Yoshio Yamaguchi (Prosthodontics & Orofacial Pain) scholarships. The most notable recognition was her induction into Omicron Kappa Upsilon, National Dental Honor Society.

Amber was raised in Manila, Philippines where she completed a Bachelor of Science in Management Major in International Business at Assumption College. As Front Office Administrator, Amber oversees patient scheduling and records, as well as integrating and connecting our new patients with the other team members. She is fluent in English and Filipino. When not serving patients, Amber enjoys traveling and spending time with friends and family.

Renee was raised --and continues to -- reside in Torrance, being an integral part of the community we serve. Renee began working with Dr. Steve while attending college, also working with Dr. Michelle (while she was also in school) managing the front office and assisting chairside on Saturdays. Renee attended the University of Southern California graduating in 2008 with a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene. When not serving patients, Renee enjoys spending time at the beach, traveling to new places and Crossfit. What she cherishes most is the time she spends with her family and watching her niece and nephews as they grow up.

Isumi has been in the dental field for over 20 years. She was raised in Japan where she completed her degree in Art Design at the University in Tokyo. She then moved to Los Angles to complete her education at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandise (FIDM). Isumi began her dental career in Torrance with Dr. Steve, finding a way to integrate her love of art and design with her interest in health care. She completed her Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) licensure in 2000 and continued her education in Extended Functions to the second level in 2007. She also has advanced training in implant prosthodontics and is fluent in Japanese. When not serving patients, Isumi enjoys walking and yoga. What she cherishes most is her yearly trips to Japan to shop and spend time with friends and family.

Dental implants are a comprehensive treatment for tooth loss. The procedure restores your smiles aesthetic, in addition to giving you a stable and well-functioning bite. If you are considering this tooth replacement option, the following are commonly asked questions regarding dental implants:

Implant-supported restorations are an option for those with missing teeth. Many patients are qualified to receive them, but not everyone is suited for this tooth replacement method without pre-procedures. Dental implants are an effective option for individuals if they have:

Dental implant treatment is a process that takes anywhere from three to nine months to complete, depending on patients needs and the speed at which they heal after surgical care. Additional time may be required if the patient is in need of a bone graft prior to implant placement surgery.

After placement, the biocompatible implant post must be given time to integrate and create a strong foundation for the restoration. Additional steps in the process, including placement of the final abutment and restoration, add time to the entire length of your procedure. While its a time investment for many patients, the results are positively life-changing.

Implants are proven to be safe for individuals whose health is strong enough to support dental surgery. Unlike traditional prosthetics, implants do not have an adverse impact on bone, gums, or surrounding teeth. If you have a pre-existing medical condition, such as high blood pressure or diabetes, consult with your primary doctor before having dental implant surgery.

To create optimal success for implant treatment, the post must fuse with the jawbone. Implant failure or complications are minimized at our practice, as Dr. Okamoto thoroughly evaluates patients health and recommends pre-treatment whenever necessary. He also advises patients on keeping up with a good oral hygiene routine to prevent soft tissue problems.

Contact Okamoto DDS in Torrance, CA for any further questions or concerns you may have on dental implants. Our goal is to help you achieve your best smile while feeling comfortable throughout the process.