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9777 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 915. Beverly Hills, CA 90212
424-404-9735
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Dental Implants Near Santa Monica, CA
Facing life with a smile is hard when you're missing some or all of your teeth. Dental implants are an advanced, reliable, tooth replacement solution to help you chew better, feel better, and live healthier - all on your terms.
Overview
Our teeth play a major role in our daily lives. We use them to break pieces of food apart so that we can digest meals properly. They allow us to speak and communicate effectively by helping us form sounds and words. From an appearance standpoint, they help define how we smile, express emotion, and interact with people. But our teeth also affect our health. Poor dental hygiene can lead to a range of diseases and other concerns. In essence, our teeth are paramount to our emotional, physical, and social well-being.
It makes sense, then, that life gets harder when some or all of your teeth are missing. Unfortunately, missing teeth is a common issue in the United States. Almost one-third of Americans are missing teeth. In the next 15 years, half a billion Americans will need new pearly whites.
Whether due to genetics, accidents, or neglect, losing your teeth hurts - both emotionally and physically. And, up until now, it was unbelievably expensive to have them replaced.
Fortunately, with Renew's state-of-the-art dental implants Near Santa Monica, CA, you can get a new set of teeth easier, faster, and healthier than ever before. The best part? You don't have to spend sports-car levels of money to get the full set of teeth you need.
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From the entry into the office my initial visit was easily accomplished. Checking in was easy as I was treated cordially. My cat scan experience was with Marie was excellent as she was both highly professional and her personality, outstanding. I spoke and spent quality time with Kim who actually explained not only the technical issues involved but in an extremely unique way provided encouragement
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a popular option for replacing missing teeth. Unlike some dental clinics that require multiple procedures, Renew's tooth replacement systems require just one surgical appointment. With regular care and professional cleaning from your dentist, your implants can last for the rest of your life.
Dental Implants 101
Dental implants are often the preferred choice for people considering total mouth restoration. Unlike temporary options, dental implants give you a permanent solution for preventing bone loss and renewing your smile. They're created using a small, threaded post that conforms to your jawbone over time. This fusion creates a double-strong anchor that secures your new teeth. Though dentures have a reputation for slipping and sliding in your mouth, dental implants always stay put. If you've been missing out on delicious flavor profiles or the chance to speak confidently, dental implants can be life-changing.
Typical dental implants are made up of three different parts:
Threaded Implant
You can think of this titanium screw as a new root for your teeth. It's anchored to your jaw during dental implant surgery.
Abutment
An abutment is a small connector prosthetic that connects your dental implants and false teeth. You can think of an abutment as the foundation for your new teeth.
Crown
The crown of your new tooth is the visible part that you and others see in your mouth. Crowns are made using gorgeous materials and function just like other healthy teeth in your mouth.
Top Signs You Need Dental Implants Near Santa Monica, CA
Dental implants can all but eliminate the need for repetitive dental work and dealing with missing teeth. Since they act like natural teeth roots, they stimulate your jaw, which prevents it from deteriorating. Plus, dental implants are placed with extreme care by experts, so you don't have to worry about damaging any healthy teeth. It's pretty clear that dental implants are great - but when do you need to get them? Here are a few common signs that you may be a good candidate.
One of the top reasons why people choose dental implants is that they're missing several or all of their teeth. Missing teeth can cause issues with self-consciousness and make it difficult to eat in general. Because dental implants replicate your natural teeth, they can help restore confidence and make eating easier and more enjoyable.
Some people who have dentures, partials, or bridges still feel insecure about their smiles. And that's a shame because nobody should be embarrassed by their smile. If you feel that way, know this: You deserve to feel proud about your smile. Fortunately, dental implants can help. Dental implants can take your confidence to a whole new level. Those days and nights you spent refusing to smile for pictures... Forget about them. Better days are ahead when you have dental implants.
When you have missing teeth, it can be hard to indulge in your favorite foods. It seems like you're constantly on edge due to the pain and inconvenience. When you have dentures, you have to avoid a whole range of foods, like grilled meats and more. With dental implants from Renew you can have your steak and (literally) eat it, too.
One of the biggest downfalls of dental solutions like dentures is that they don't stimulate your jawbone. When your jawbone isn't stimulated correctly, you will eventually suffer from bone loss. This bone loss can create a sunken-in facial appearance. Dental implants fuse with your jawbone, providing the much-needed stimulus that prevents this from happening.
If you or someone you know has had dentures, you know that using them and keeping them clean can be a hassle. After eating, you've got to take them out to be cleaned. Sometimes, you've got to apply denture adhesives to keep them in place. For most people, denture care is messy and monotonous. If you're sick of dealing with sticky adhesives and loose dentures in your mouth, you may want to consider dental implants.
What are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
One of the biggest reasons why people choose dental implants is that they look, feel, and work like natural teeth. Dental implants provide several other benefits, including:
Restored Function
If you've lost some or all of your teeth, you're missing out on a slew of functions that make life easier. With dental implants, you benefit from the same functionality as natural teeth.
You can bite into and chew tougher foods that you love, since your bite force is restored.
Dental implants fill in for missing molars, which helps you digest food better.
Dental Implant full mouth restoration options include both fixed removable and non-removable options. In both instances, you can brush just as you would with your natural teeth. With fixed removable solutions, the teeth can come out for extra cleaning and snap right back in. With fixed non-removable options, the teeth stay put and can not be removed, other than by a dental professional for deep cleaning.
Reliability
Dental implants eliminate one of the biggest concerns that denture-wearers have: their teeth slipping out of their mouth accidentally in public. Unlike dentures, implants are placed securely in your jaw. That means you can eat, talk, smile, and laugh without having to be nervous.
Lifetime Use
Some dental solutions for missing teeth only last for a few years. When cared for properly, dental implants can last for the rest of your life. Dental implants Near Santa Monica, CA from Renew can cost up to 60% less than other dental implant options and come with a Lifetime Guarantee, making them an outstanding value.
Jaw Strength
When there are gaps in the jawbone due to missing teeth, the bone in those areas can start to weaken from lack of stimulation. If the empty space isn't addressed quickly, the bone can lose up to 25% of its volume and will continue to deteriorate over time. Dental implants stimulate your jaw again, which strengthens your jawbone and prevents it from deteriorating.
Avoid a Sunken-In Face
When your jawbone starts to deteriorate, the lower third part of your face can begin to sag or look sunken in due to bone loss. Because dental implants integrate with your jawbone and stimulate it daily, you can avoid a sunken facial appearance.
One Affordable Cost
Renew has transformed our members' lives with quality dental implants at prices far below the national average. That's because we believe smiles should be accessible to all. Renew doctors examine the oral health of every new patient who walks through our doors. We then develop a customized dental implant treatment plan to meet their needs. This allows our experts to provide pricing that is upfront, fixed, and affordable. No hidden costs, ever.
We're able to provide outstanding value on your new teeth because we pass our savings along to you. Here's how:
- Quick, Digital Processes
- Lifetime Savings Guarantee
- Better Negotiated Lender Rates
Renew is so committed to bringing back your smile that we created the Renew Patient Financing Program. When you sign up, you can find low monthly payment options with higher approval rates. Bad credit? No problem. Renew works with you to build a plan that's right for you and your budget.
Talk and Eat Comfortably
When it comes to replacing missing teeth, dental implants are often considered the "gold standard" solution. That's because they feel, function, and look like actual teeth. Because they replicate natural teeth, you can feast on your favorite foods. You can talk to strangers with confidence. Perhaps most importantly, you can flash that beautiful smile again without feeling embarrassed. Unlike Renew's full mouth reconstruction, traditional dentures limit your food choices, have to be replaced, and are generally more difficult to wear.
What is Full-Mouth Restoration?
A full mouth restoration, as the name suggests, involves rebuilding or replacing every tooth in your mouth. This procedure combines elements of dentistry and cosmetic surgery to restore both the function and structure of your teeth.
Your teeth are responsible for more than making your smile unique. They help you eat and communicate, too. When you lose your teeth, life changes. It's just that simple. Factors like poor dental care or mouth injuries can cause partial or complete tooth loss. In such situations, a dentist's goal is to restore your oral health and bring back your smile. At Renew, we do full dental replacements. They're not for everyone, but for those who need them, they're a great solution. But what does full mouth reconstruction entail? Let's dig in and find out.
A full-mouth reconstruction - also called a total or full-mouth restoration begins with extracting any remaining teeth before restoration can begin. If you have many missing teeth or your teeth are severely damaged or worn down, you may want to consider this procedure.
You may also want to think about full mouth restoration if you have specific dental conditions. For instance, amelogenesis, a disorder that causes teeth to develop in unusual shapes, and ectodermal dysplasia, which affects both skin and teeth, may require comprehensive reconstruction as you get older.
Dental implants can fully restore your mouth without needing to rely on dentures or bridges. As we covered above, dental implants consist of a titanium post that is implanted into your jawbone. As the process of osseointegration progresses, the surrounding wound heals, firmly anchoring the post in place. Teeth are attached to the implants, restoring both the appearance and function.
Did you know that one-tenth of people in the United States are missing all of their teeth? One of the most common reasons for missing teeth is tooth decay, a problem that affects many individuals, not just those who have lost teeth. While some of us may have had more dental fillings than others, we all continually battle against tooth decay.
Bacteria naturally inhabit our mouths, and when they feast on the sugars and starches from our food, they produce an acid that can harm our teeth. This acid gradually erodes the protective layer known as enamel. Once the enamel is compromised, the inner structures of our teeth can begin to decay. Keep an eye out for these signs of tooth decay:
- Pain or Dull Aches
- Sensitivity to Cold and Hot Temperatures
- Sensitivity to Sweet Drinks and Foods
- Pain
- Swelling
- Fever
- Infection
When left untreated, tooth decay can rot your teeth and cause them to fall out. Along with tooth decay, be aware of these additional risk factors that cause your teeth to fall out.
Gum Disease
Gum disease and tooth loss often go hand-in-hand. Gum disease is a bacterial infection of the gums that can result in serious health problems. If the infection progresses, it can damage the bone that supports your teeth, potentially leading to tooth loss. You might notice swelling or redness in your gums, but often, the condition isn't painful, which means you might have it without even realizing it. If left untreated, gum disease can not only cause your teeth to fall out but also allow the infection to spread to other areas of your body.
A big cause of gum disease is from plaque accumulating on your teeth. Other factors that increase the likelihood of gum disease include:
- Frequent Alcohol Consumption
- Using Tobacco Products
- Clenching or Grinding Your Teeth
- Genetics
- Poor Nutrition
- Diabetes
- Autoimmune Conditions and Diseases
Tooth Injuries
Losing your teeth due to an injury is a fairly common occurrence, especially for MMA fighters and boxers. But you don't have to be a combat sports athlete to lose your teeth. It can happen due to an injury, car accidents, accidents at work, or just getting hit in the face with a ball really hard, it doesn't take that much force to damage teeth and ruin someone's smile.
Missing teeth impact your oral health, but they also take a toll on your emotional and mental well-being. Ask yourself these questions:
- Do you always turn down social gathering invitations?
- Do you make it a point not to smile in photos?
- Do you think you need to cover your mouth when you laugh to avoid embarrassment?
Renew's full mouth restoration can be the solution you've been searching for.
Steps of a Dental Implant Procedure
Have you ever wondered what's involved in a dental implant procedure and how long it takes? In the past, dental implant procedures were often considered long and painful. Today, dental implant surgeries are streamlined and tailored to your unique dental needs. At Renew, you can have new dental implants with a single surgery.
No, we're not pulling your leg. All it takes is one surgical appointment to get dental implants that feel, look, and function like natural teeth. By fixing your teeth on the same day as your surgery, treatment and recovery times are reduced. When your implant procedure is finished and you're fully healed, the sparkling-white teeth of your dreams become a reality. That crispy, juicy apple that's been calling your name? Go ahead and dig in. It's time to savor the flavor of life.
To help you make a more informed decision about dental implants Near Santa Monica, CA, let's explore more about the treatment process.
Free Consultation and 3-D CAT Scan
Having your teeth replaced involves an initial consultation with our experienced Dental Team and Education Consultant. You'll receive a free 3-D CAT Scan, which will allow our doctors to see your mouth in three dimensions. We develop your custom treatment plan using this advanced technology. During your free consultation, our dental implant experts will meet with you to talk about your needs. We'll also chat about any concerns you have. Once we determine you're a great candidate for Renew, we can schedule your single-day surgery.
Dental Implant Procedure Day
The day you've been waiting for is finally here. Renew's dental implant procedure should only take a few hours. Once we're ready, our doctors use advanced surgical guides and scans to meticulously place your implants. Once your implants are placed, we attach new teeth. This allows you to speak, eat, and smile with confidence as you heal. And, since this is a medical procedure, IV sedation is used to keep you as comfortable as possible.
Time to Heal
Once your procedure is over, it's time to heal. We'll provide you with helpful information on how to manage pain, should you experience any soreness. Healing varies from person to person, but you should expect some mild discomfort and swelling.
Restoration
Four months after surgery, you receive a set of permanent, strong teeth that are attached and fixed for the non-removable option, or teeth that snap securely in place for the removable tooth replacement option.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
You want your teeth to stay fresh and clean as time goes by. That's why the last stage of your dental implant procedure is maintenance. By practicing good oral hygiene and attending regular dental check-ups, the smile of your dreams can last a lifetime.
How to Care for Your Dental Implants Near Santa Monica, CA
Dental implants are one of the most popular restoration options for people who have lost several teeth or have had to have many teeth extracted. They've got an incredible long-term success rate, but to keep them looking and feeling like your natural teeth, you've got to care for them like your natural teeth. Here are a few tips on how to do just that.
Make Regular Appointments with Your Dentist
If there's one takeaway you should focus on in this list, it's that regular dentist appointments are key to dental implant longevity. Just like your natural teeth, dental implants benefit from routine cleanings. Regular appointments allow your dentist to catch any early signs of implant issues, enabling timely intervention if needed. Additionally, your hygienist will skillfully remove any plaque that accumulates around your gums, which is crucial for reducing the risk of implant infections.
Don't Smoke
It should go without saying that smoking tobacco products is one of the worst things you can do to your body. It can lead to cancer and many other diseases and conditions. But smoking can also inhibit healing after a dental implant procedure. Plus, it can darken your new teeth and cause yellow stains. If you smoke cigarettes, cigars, or other forms of smokable tobacco, you should stop before and after your procedure. For the best long-term results, you should quit smoking altogether.
Brush Your Dental Implants
As mentioned previously, taking care of your implants is just as crucial as maintaining your natural teeth. That means you should be brushing at least twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush. When brushing, it's best to use a low-abrasive toothpaste that offers tartar control. If you're unsure what brand to buy, your dentist can provide recommendations that sync with your budget and preferences.
Watch What You Eat
Speaking of food, one of the biggest perks of getting a full-mouth restoration with dental implants is that you can drink and eat almost anything your new teeth can tolerate.
Be Alert and Listen to Your Body
Staying vigilant is one of the best ways to prevent implant failure. It's important to recognize the common signs that something might be wrong and to seek treatment as soon as you notice any issues. Early intervention can often save your implants. Don't hesitate to reach out for dental care if you experience pain or swelling around your implants.
Don't Ignore Aftercare Instructions
After your dental implant procedure, you'll receive a detailed list of aftercare instructions to facilitate a smooth recovery. Follow these guidelines closely for as long as your doctor advises. Sticking to these recovery instructions can significantly reduce the risk of early implant failure due to improper healing.
Put Your Smile in Renew's Hands
Renew was founded with one goal in mind: To make beautiful, strong teeth accessible to all. So, along with a team of scientists and doctors, Founder Dr. Don Miloni developed a new way to do teeth. Over 100 million dollars have been invested in crafting strong, hardy, healthy teeth. To date, we are backed by over 80 patents. We've achieved a shorter surgery time, which means a faster recovery. And we have changed countless of people's mouths (and lives). All for a fraction of traditional costs. Because everyone deserves to smile. It's the reason we get up every single day.
At this point, we know you may have questions. It would be our pleasure to help answer them. If there's one thing you can count on, it's that our team is here for you when you need us most. From our customer service team to our experienced staff of doctors and expert technicians, you can expect comprehensive care along every step of your dental implant journey. Contact Renew today. After your free consultation, you can look forward to a better tomorrow.
Latest News in Santa Monica, CA
Beach Belles Performances at Santa Monica Place
Santa Monica, CA Patchhttps://patch.com/california/santamonica/calendar/event/20241221/72361498-c66d-410c-b026-b59d60a0be15/beach-belles-performances-at-santa-monica-place
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.Santa Monica|Local EventThe ACE Agency, Local BusinessSat, Dec 21, 2024 at 3:00 PMSanta Monica Place, 395 Santa Monica Pl, Santa Monica, CA, 90401...
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.
Santa Monica|Local Event
The ACE Agency, Local Business
- Sat, Dec 21, 2024 at 3:00 PM
- Santa Monica Place, 395 Santa Monica Pl, Santa Monica, CA, 90401
- More info here
December 20 - 24: 3 - 7:30 pm
Catch these seasonally inspired dancers as they bring festive cheer and high kick-style performances perfect for the whole family to enjoy.
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Weekly Farmers Market at The District at Tustin Legacy
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Kids On Stage Winter Break Camp "Musical Cabaret" Ages 4-13
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Crossing Over with Psychic Medium John Edward live in Los Angeles!
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FFUUNNN!!! Winter Break Camp @ ATAM Palisades!
Santa Monica, CA Patchhttps://patch.com/california/santamonica/calendar/event/20241216/15614387-f807-4dc4-8c5c-05da4e714097/ffuunnn-winter-break-camp-atam-palisades
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.Santa Monica|Local Eventanthony wamble, NeighborDec16Mon, Dec 16, 2024 at 8:30 AMATAM - Academy of Techn...
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.
Santa Monica|Local Event
Dec16
- Mon, Dec 16, 2024 at 8:30 AM
- ATAM - Academy of Technology, Art and Music, 881 Alma Real Dr, Los Angeles, CA, 90272
YES! We made it! School just got out and we are all looking for a fun and safe place where we can meet new friends, create holiday gifts and projects, create new experiences in Minecraft and Roblox, work on our skills in sports, go crazy with wacky science and of course, PLAY GAMES!
Where is this all possible while on winter break? ATAM Palisades!
Every day is FILLED with a TON of fun and learning! ATAM is a kids dream haven for everything tech, art, music and gaming. Our camp experience brings out the best in every camper to try new things and find new passions.
The lead instructors are active STEAM and Tech teachers in three local schools and help bring a wide variety of skills to the camp.
About ATAM Camp: Runs from December 20 to January 3rd. Christmas and New Year is off. Camp runs from 8:30am to 3:30pm with optional after care until 7pm daily. Friday camp runs right into ATAM's Ultimate Game Night that lasts until 11pm. Campers only need to bring a smile and comfortable clothes and shoes to wear. Campers can bring a packed lunch with them or order a hot lunch where you put your order in upon sign in and we take care of the rest.
The Day breakdown is: 830-9 = Sign In/Game Play 9-915 = All Camper Activity and Announcements 915-1015 = 1st Tech/Theme Session 1020-1050 = Outdoor Recess 1055-1205 = 2nd Tech/Theme Session 1210-1245 = Outdoor Picnic Lunch 1250-225 = Outdoor Sports/Skill Building/Fantasy Role Playing Games 230-250 = Wacky Science 255-330 = STEAM Stations 330-7 Sign Out/Game Play with New Friends
Walk Ins welcome or feel free to signup ahead of time online at: https://www.atampalisades.com/...
ATAM is located: 881 Alma Real suite 117, 90272
contact ATAM at: text: 4242092574 call: 3105730012 email: atamscheduler@gmail.com
ATAM offers a wide variety of services to help better serve our community including: camps year round, classes, in school teachers, music private lessons, tech private lessons, art private lessons, custom theme birthday parties, tech support for home and business, ultimate game night weekends (parents night out), after school club hub and private room rentals.
How recent wildfires have primed Malibu and the Santa Monica Mountains for more frequent blazes
Noah Haggertyhttps://www.latimes.com/environment/story/2024-12-14/how-recent-fires-have-primed-malibu-for-more-wildfires
A red glow illuminated the valley behind the Brunel family’s Malibu home around 11 p.m. Monday. The fierce Santa Ana winds blowing dry desert air over the mountains and out to sea had already triggered public safety power shutoffs.The family, whose previous home was destroyed by the 2018 Woolsey fire, knew it was a bad sign. They started packing and turned on their water sprinklers.By 1 a.m. they were driving to Pepperdine University as flames raced along Malibu Canyon and up toward their home. Pepperdine buzzed with life...
A red glow illuminated the valley behind the Brunel family’s Malibu home around 11 p.m. Monday. The fierce Santa Ana winds blowing dry desert air over the mountains and out to sea had already triggered public safety power shutoffs.
The family, whose previous home was destroyed by the 2018 Woolsey fire, knew it was a bad sign. They started packing and turned on their water sprinklers.
By 1 a.m. they were driving to Pepperdine University as flames raced along Malibu Canyon and up toward their home. Pepperdine buzzed with life as some students evacuated and others hunkered down in the school’s library.
The fire quickly blew through the Brunels’ neighborhood and reached campus.
Two hours later, it had all passed.
Fires have always been part of life in the Santa Monica Mountains, but in recent decades, they’ve exploded in frequency and ferocity. Humans introduced fire-loving invasive species (that happen to make for pretty landscaping) and built roads and homes protruding into the wildlands, creating ample opportunities for human-sparked fires.
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Today, the hills above Malibu are locked in a dangerous feedback loop, experts say. More-frequent fires choke out native vegetation and open more land for invasive, tinder-like grasses that provide ready fuel for more blazes.
Dec. 11, 2024
For conservationists, the ferocious Franklin fire and other recent blazes raise a burning question: Is it possible to break this feedback loop and turn the clock back on an increasingly flammable ecosystem?
“The grass-fire cycle is probably nowhere more apparent than it is in the Malibu Canyon of the Santa Monica Mountains,” said Alexandra Syphard, senior research scientist at the Conservation Biology Institute.
California State Parks and the National Park Service — which manage over half of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area that encompasses areas of Malibu and much of the mountainous wilderness — believe they have a potential solution: the coast live oak, a native keystone species known for its ability to impede fire and quash embers.
The Resource Conservation District of the Santa Monica Mountains — a community nonprofit dedicated to stewarding the land and creating harmony between the ecosystem and the people living in it — has been monitoring oaks in the mountains for decades.
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Now, the district is working with the state parks agency to identify strategic areas that are both prone to fire and able to sustain the oaks in a warming and increasingly drought-stricken climate, and to plant hundreds of new trees.
The nonprofit hopes the new trees can rejuvenate the struggling population of existing oaks and slow fires by creating a natural buffer and fending off the invasive grasses that have replaced the native chaparral ecosystem.
But with more than 80,000 fire-prone acres of wildland under the national and state parks’ purview, it’s no small challenge.
“I applaud those efforts — I think it’s going to be extraordinarily hard,” Syphard said. “Chaparral is extraordinarily species-rich. It provides many ecosystem services like carbon storage, reduction of soil erosion, water quality. But once it’s gone, it’s really hard to get back.”
Long before Europeans settled in Los Angeles — and even before the Chumash tribes inhabited the land and engaged in controlled burning — the Santa Monica Mountains and its landscapes of chaparral, oak woodlands and coastal sage scrub were no strangers to fire.
Lightning from rare coastal thunderstorms that rolled over the rugged, unsettled land would strike mountaintops, sometimes igniting a fire. Many were small, but if the thunderstorm coincided with Santa Ana winds, the gusts could blow embers into the canyons, spreading the conflagration rapidly.
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Decades — sometimes a century — would pass before fire struck the same land again. During these quieter times, the native chaparral and vegetation would slowly recover over the course of years.
Then the Spanish arrived — then the Mexicans and the Americans. The invasive species they brought — like black mustard, tree tobacco and castor bean — slowly crept into the ecosystem.
As humans filled the canyons and mountain ridges with homes and roads, they occasionally created sparks and fire, whether by a chain dragging behind a car, an engine backfire, a faulty power line or an uncontrolled campfire.
The rate of fire ignition began to rise. Fires started tearing through parts of the mountains faster than native species had adapted to recover, while the invasive plants could regrow within a single year.
Nov. 14, 2024
“Many of the fire-adapted species in Southern California require 10 to 30 years to be able to establish after a fire,” Syphard said. “If a fire comes through within that window of time, the species can’t recover.”
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The frequency of fires rose from once every 30 to 130 years to roughly once every eight years in Malibu Canyon. Lightning went from causing virtually 100% of wildfires to fewer than 5%.
The coast live oaks, one of the most effective lines of natural fire defense in the mountains, started struggling too. Fires charred their bark, droughts forced them to ration water, and invasive beetles — some brought to Southern California via firewood — bored into them.
The result is an ecosystem that frequently burns at breakneck speed. On Monday, that scenario played out again in the Franklin fire.
“It was exponential growth,” said Jonathan Torres, an engineer and public information officer with the Los Angeles County Fire Department, noting that the blaze had caught hold in “a matter of moments. Not hours.”
Within minutes, a strike team that was stationed nearby due to the high potential for fire sprang into action. While the exact cause of the fire remains under investigation, the canyon’s thick vegetation and difficult topography didn’t help matters.
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“That canyon was just rich and full of vegetation — everything from small and taller grasses to full-on trees,” Torres said. “It’s fuel. If it’s not there, it doesn’t burn.”
By Wednesday, the canyon was yet again transformed.
The Brunels’ home avoided devastation this time. Pacome Brunel, in his senior year of high school, spent the evening biking down the canyon corridor, which was lined with towering mountains of bronzed dirt and black and gray ash. He watched firefighting helicopters and airplanes make laps past thick red streaks of fire retardant splattered on mountainsides.
The next morning, just a few miles away, Isaac Yelchin and Luke Benson drove up a Topanga State Park fire road in a Resource Conservation District pickup.
The two Topanga natives pulled up to a grove with over a dozen Home Depot buckets of water, chicken wire, and a plastic bag of coast live oak seeds that had impatiently begun sprouting in their supervisor’s fridge.
The oaks have waxy, cup-shaped leaves — not only do they rarely go up in flame, but they can catch embers out of the sky and extinguish them, Yelchin said.
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“My home in Topanga, we’re surrounded by oak trees, and I used to be really worried,” he said. But “looking into the research, they really slow fire down. It’s great to have them. … They kind of act as a shield.”
Dec. 10, 2024
The trees can also communicate with one another through networks of fungi and share resources, while outcompeting invasive species for sunlight, water and nutrients.
In two hours, the duo planted seeds for 17 oak trees, enclosed them in mesh chicken wire to deter hungry fauna and tagged each one. The day’s efforts are another drop in the bucket toward the Resource Conservation District’s goal of establishing nearly 350 healthy new oaks in Topanga and Leo Carrillo state parks over the next two years — on top of their more than 450 trees already growing in the mountains.
The National Park Service is also planting oaks and native grasses, and the nonprofit TreePeople has its own oak tree program, but conservationists say the coordinated effort is still in its infancy.
And with a daunting number of acres to manage, the park agencies and conservation groups are focusing on strategic locations that provide ecosystem benefits and can act as a fuel buffer or prevent flammable brush from growing in common ignition areas, like along busy roadways.
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“Most people really don’t like to hear there’s nothing you can do — which is why people want to go out and manage things,” Syphard said. “But one thing you could do is prevent human activities in those areas, if you have a large expanse of uninterrupted chaparral vegetation.”
Whether it’s done by shutting off electricity, closing roads and trails or preventing new home construction along the wildland-urban interface, such efforts can limit opportunities for humans to generate a spark.
Without suppression in the wildlands, residents’ last line of defense is to harden against wildfires by ensuring that flammable materials don’t collect on their houses and that there are no holes where embers can enter the home. The Resource Conservation District runs a free program to inspect community member’s homes and offer advice (with the promise that they won’t report any issues to insurance companies).
Yet, despite the formidable task, Benson continues to put in the work and even helps run a volunteer program almost every other Saturday that helps locals give back to the ecosystem in their backyard by collecting acorns, planting them and caring for the oak saplings.
“Conservation, in some ways, is an uphill battle, but it’s one step at a time, one project at a time,” he said. “You’re working against a pretty massive force, but I think that’s why it’s really important in this line of work — or even just as a human being existing now — to try to not let the pessimism take over.”
Southern California fire grows to more than 3,800 acres in Malibu amid dangerous conditions
Jon Haworthhttps://abc7news.com/post/evacuations-underway-due-massive-brush-fire-pepperdine-university-malibu-california/15634996/
A brush fire that broke out on Monday evening in Malibu Canyon has led to mandatory evacuation orders in parts of Southern California, authorities said.The Franklin Fire began approximately 3 miles north of the Pacific Coastal Highway in Malibu on Monday and has spread to 3,893 acres with 0% containment as of Wednesday morning.Crews are battling the fire amid dangerous Santa Ana wind conditions in the area, which are expected to remain a threat through Wednesday morning.During a press conference Tuesday night, officials ...
A brush fire that broke out on Monday evening in Malibu Canyon has led to mandatory evacuation orders in parts of Southern California, authorities said.
The Franklin Fire began approximately 3 miles north of the Pacific Coastal Highway in Malibu on Monday and has spread to 3,893 acres with 0% containment as of Wednesday morning.
Crews are battling the fire amid dangerous Santa Ana wind conditions in the area, which are expected to remain a threat through Wednesday morning.
During a press conference Tuesday night, officials said seven structures were destroyed and eight others were damaged in the blaze.
City officials said the Los Angeles County Fire Department is on scene and trying to control the "rapid rate of spread."
The Franklin Fire was initially estimated at just about 10 acres but officials said it has grown to at least 100 acres, according to sister station KABC in Los Angeles. A high volume of dry brush in the area and strong Santa Ana winds means there is potential for the blaze to continue to spread rapidly.
Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone said during a press conference Tuesday that the cause of the fire remains unknown but arson is being investigated as a possible cause.
"The L.A. County Fire Department and the L.A. County Sheriff's Department are going to join forces with our arson investigators because it's going to be critical that we learn why this fire started," he said.
Evacuations were ordered in the area east of Malibu Canyon Road and south of Piuma Road as well as the Serra Retreat, KABC said.
The fire's flames were visible overnight from Pepperdine University's campus.
"Normal operations on the Malibu Campus are suspended for Tuesday," the university said in a statement on social media. "This includes canceling classes and finals for the day. Critical support personnel should connect with their supervisors about whether they are needed to physically report to the Malibu campus for their regular work shift. All other staff should connect with their supervisors and work remotely if possible. The Pepperdine community continues to shelter in place in Payson Library and the Tyler Campus Center."
There are no immediate reports of injuries or structure damage and the cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Pepperdine University cancels classes
The wildfire was not immediately encroaching on Pepperdine but the university was reporting power outages on campus. It appeared the flames were heading south in the direction of Santa Monica but Pepperdine suspended normal operations on campus on Tuesday.
"Normal operations on the Malibu Campus are suspended for Tuesday," the university said in a statement on social media. "This includes canceling classes and finals for the day. Critical support personnel should connect with their supervisors about whether they are needed to physically report to the Malibu campus for their regular work shift. All other staff should connect with their supervisors and work remotely if possible. The Pepperdine community continues to shelter in place in Payson Library and the Tyler Campus Center. The Franklin fire has grown to 814 acres and flames are visible from the Malibu campus. There are numerous LA County Fire Department engines on campus and their helicopters are using the lakes in Alumni Park to pick up water to drop on the fire from above."
"The University understands the worst of the fire has pushed past Pepperdine," they continued. "However, there are smaller spot fires on campus that are not threatening life or structures, and fire resources remain on campus to address these spot fires as they occur. Additionally, power remains out for much of Malibu and therefore, to ensure the safety of our community, we will maintain the shelter-in-place protocol until at least daylight. The EOC will continue to update the community."
Franklin Fire map
A real-time map provided by fire officials showed the perimeter and evacuation areas of the massive Franklin Fire.
The map on the Los Angeles County Fire Department website reflected the mandatory evacuation order that covered the area east of Malibu Canyon Road and south of Piuma Road, as well as the Serra Retreat area.
A damage estimate in the Malibu area was not available, but "it's certain some number of homes are definitely going to be badly damaged," said Matt Myerhoff, a spokesperson for the city.
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5 Santa Monica Restaurants Ranked Among 101 Best In Los Angeles
Chris Lindahlhttps://patch.com/california/santamonica/5-santa-monica-restaurants-ranked-among-101-best-los-angeles
Five Santa Monica restaurants appeared on the 101 Best Restaurants in Los Angeles list published by the LA Times.Patch StaffSANTA MONICA, CA — Five Santa Monica restaurants are among the 101 best in the Los Angeles area, according to a new ranking released this week.The Los Angeles Times' annual list of the 101 Best Restaurants in Los Angeles includes everything from modest holes in the wall to buzzy Michelin-starred spots."We crisscrossed the region for months, checking in on stalwarts and swapping n...
Five Santa Monica restaurants appeared on the 101 Best Restaurants in Los Angeles list published by the LA Times.
Patch Staff
SANTA MONICA, CA — Five Santa Monica restaurants are among the 101 best in the Los Angeles area, according to a new ranking released this week.
The Los Angeles Times' annual list of the 101 Best Restaurants in Los Angeles includes everything from modest holes in the wall to buzzy Michelin-starred spots.
"We crisscrossed the region for months, checking in on stalwarts and swapping notes on potentially overlooked contenders," the Times wrote.
Here are the Santa Monica spots, along with their rank and excerpts from the Times' blurbs:
Pasjoli — 18
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"There is a point during dinner at Dave Beran’s Santa Monica restaurant when the attention of the entire room shifts to a table in front of the kitchen. Beran makes a show of breaking down a duck and stuffing the carcass into a medieval-looking contraption that compresses the cartilage, bone and tissue into a pink goo that’s then transformed into a luxurious gravy."
Mélisse — 24
"A quenelle of strawberry sorbet floats in the center of lush orange tomato soup. Clear noodles fashioned from tomato consommé are chewy and a joy to eat. The lamb course is presented as both a textbook perfect herb-crusted chop and the filling for a fried spring roll with a bright cilantro and mint emulsion."
Rustic Canyon — 28
"A late September meal mirrored the week’s weather: bay scallops surrounded by barely liquid tomatoes and bits of fried bread, a salad built around pears and dates, softly curried roast chicken with plums, an herbed pork chop covered in slices of poached quince."
Birdie G's — 52
"Jeremy Fox’s Santa Monica restaurant never ceases to surprise me. His Hungarian-inspired dumplings are pillowy balls of ricotta cheese tossed in a bright Sungold tomato sauce with fresh basil, lots of Parmesan and a sprinkle of fennel pollen."
Cassia — 75
Chef Bryant "Ng continues to merge the idea of a grand French brasserie with his own Chinese-Singaporean narrative. And you’ll spot plenty of nods to the decades his family spent cooking Chinese American food in Los Angeles, as well as wife and partner Kim Luu-Ng’s Vietnamese heritage."
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