Dr. Susan Fredericks, DDS, MPH

Dentist | General Practice

6325 Topanga Canyon Blvd Suite 402 Woodland Hills CA, 91367 Show map

About
Contacts & Locations

About

Dr. Susan Fredericks is a Dentist practicing in Woodland Hills, CA. Dr. Fredericks specializes in preventing, diagnosing, and treating diseases and conditions associated with the mouth and overall dental health. Dentists are trained to carry out such treatment as professional cleaning, restorative, prosthodontic, and endodontic procedures, and performing examinations, among many others.

Education and Training

UCLA MPH 2016

UCLA Bachelor of Arts in Biology 1977

UCLA School of Dentistry Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree 1981

Provider Details

FemaleEnglish

Dr. Susan Fredericks, DDS, MPH

Dr. Susan Fredericks, DDS, MPH's Expert Contributions

My Answers

Does a bone graft prevent dry socket?
A dry socket occurs when the patient has a tooth extracted and the clot that formed in the area of extraction is lost. This is more common with smokers. A bone graft is generally covered by a membrane to protect it and keep it from dislodging. So the answer is yes READ MORE
Can antibiotics heal an infected root canal?
Maybe. Root canal infections are in 3 categories: Infection was never completely abolished during procedure or with initial round of antibiotics. In this case, good chance of resolution. Second, root canal gets infected some years after procedure. In this case, maybe, but good chance root canal will need to be redone. Last, root canal never heals after second or third round of antibiotics. This can be true either at initial treatment or on down the road. Root may be fractured, or cyst may have formed, in which case, extraction or surgical intervention is needed. So, it depends! READ MORE
How do you adjust your dentures without going to the dentist?
I have had a few of my patients do this over the years. If they own a dremel tool and know right where to adjust. It is not rocket science. But many end up coming in anyway as dentists have better equipment and tools to identfy and relieve the issue. And they still need additional adjust to end painful spot READ MORE
How long after getting braces does the pain stop?
The pain should resolve in a week or two as you readjust. And don't forget to wear your retainers!!! READ MORE
Is jaw surgery risky for infection?
It depends on the type of surgery you are talking about. Wisdom teeth extraction usually includes antibiotic coverage to help prevent this. However, in a small number of circumstances, this can happen. Larger, more complicated surgeries often involve hospitalization, but again would have antibiotics. Almost all surgeries carry some risk of infection. READ MORE
How do you know when a cavity is really bad?
You know when a cavity is really bad, when the tooth starts hurting...A LOT. By this time, you will no longer need a filling, but likely a root canal and crown, much more expensive procedures. Please take care of this when it is small and much less expensive, time consuming, and painful to take care of! READ MORE
How do you stop a cavity from hurting?
The best way is to have it attended to by a dentist. If it comes up at night, take some tylenol and place a little wax over the hole, and then get to the dentist ASAP. READ MORE
Can I wait a week to fill a cavity?
Yes you can. It will not get significantly larger or worse, in a week READ MORE
Does vinegar remove tartar from teeth?
Vinegar is not good to put on teeth. It etches them. Don't do this. Have your teeth cleaned at the dental office. READ MORE
Do cavities need to be filled immediately?
It depends on how deep the cavity is. If the cavity is deep and you are already noticing sensitivity on this tooth, you may need to take care of that tooth very quickly, or you may need a root canal or extraction. If the cavity is small, taking care of it in the next few weeks or months is appropriate. READ MORE
How do you know if you need a deep cleaning?
A deep cleaning is based on a number of factors. The most important is what are your pocket depths? This involves a 6 point information gather around each tooth. If you have a lot of pockets over 4 mm, you may need this. However, you need to track this over time. I have patients with 4 and 5mm pockets who have been this way for years and are stable. Stable is little to no bleeding during probing and cleaning. If your gums bleed a lot and are very inflamed, you made need deep cleaning even if only a few pockets of 4. And the X-rays must be checked and a through health history and how long since your last cleaning? All must be taken into account. You can't just look at mouth and say, "YOU NEED A DEEP CLEANING." READ MORE
Can your jaw move back after surgery?
Once surgery is done, it should stay in that position. However, if you are under 18, it is possible that growth and development could change the lower jaw position READ MORE
Can you vape after a deep cleaning?
Of course you can vape and smoke. But it will affect healing and how long it takes, so it is best not to for a week. READ MORE
Is an X-ray required for braces?
Yes, we need to see the bone level and quality around the roots of your teeth and the length of your roots. All of this goes into the diagnosis. READ MORE
Can you see tooth decay on an X-ray?
Most of the time, it does appear on the X-rays. But in early or incipient decay, it may not show, but be visible to the eye. READ MORE
What X-rays are needed for braces?
A full mouth set, showing all the teeth and surrounding bone READ MORE
How often should you get a deep cleaning?
Deep cleanings are based on need and the presence of disease. If you have deep cleanings, hopefully it has resolved most of the problem. But gum disease is like diabetes, it is a long-term, chronic problem. And, like diabetes, it becomes a lifelong problem. As treatment, most patients move onto periodontal maintenance and have appointments every 3 to 4 months to manage this. However, many people don't stick to this, don't come in again for 6 months to a year and end up repeating the cycle and having more deep cleanings. READ MORE
Are ceramic fillings worth it?
It depends on the cost. Tooth colored fillings are far less expensive than ceramic lab fabricated restorations and often not worth the additional cost. Ask for a comparison of filling vs. lab ceramics. READ MORE
Do gums reattach after deep cleanings?
Gums do not reattach after deep cleanings. They will tighten up and look healthier and pinker, but once attachment is lost, it does not come back. READ MORE
What happens if you get a cavity under a filling?
Yes, getting a cavity under an existing filling is common. The old restoration is removed and the new decay and a new one is placed. Fillings are never as good as your original tooth structure. They wear out and have to be replaced. READ MORE

Areas of expertise and specialization

Cosmetic Dental ProceduresTeeth WhiteningPorcelain VeneersInvisalignTeeth StraighteningDental Bonding and ContouringSmile MakeoversRestorative DentistryDental ImplantsFull-Mouth Reconstruction

Faculty Titles & Positions

Lecturer UCLA School of Dentistry 2014 - Present
Board of Directors West Hills Hospital 2018 - Present
Lead Dentist Southern Cal Smiles - Present

Treatments

Veneers
Teeth Whitening
Smile Makeover
Dental Implants
Bridges
Crowns
Root Canal
Implant Supported Dentures
Dental Bonding
Full Mouth Reconstruction
Tmj Treatment
Sedation Dentistry
Tooth-colored Fillings
All-On-Four Implant Supported Dentures
Dentures

Professional Memberships

California Dental Association
American Dental Association
American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry
San Fernando Valley Dental Association

Charities and Philanthropic Endeavors

Board Member, MEND Pacoima
Volunteer faculty member at the UCLA School of Dentistry
Dental missions to Honduras

Dr. Susan Fredericks, DDS, MPH's Practice location

Southern Cal Smiles

6325 Topanga Canyon Blvd Suite 402 -
Woodland Hills, CA 91367

Get Direction

New patients: 818-657-8055, 818-346-3337

https://www.southerncalsmiles.com

Mon:09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Tue:09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Wed:09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Thu:09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Fri:09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Sat:Closed
Sun:Closed

6325 TOPANGA CANYON BLVD STE 402 -
WOODLAND HILLS, CA 91367

Get Direction

New patients: 818-346-3337

Dr. Susan Fredericks, DDS, MPH's reviews

(0)

Write Review

Media Releases

Enhancing Oral Health and Patient Confidence with Compassionate, Comprehensive Care

Woodland Hills, California – Susan Fredericks, DDS, MPH, a board-certified dentist, is redefining the dental experience for residents of West San Fernando Valley, Calabasas, and the greater Los Angeles area. At her state-of-the-art practice, Southern Cal Smiles, she offers a comprehensive range of general, cosmetic, and restorative dental services, ensuring patients achieve and maintain optimal oral health while enhancing their smiles with confidence.

Dr. Fredericks is well-known for her sophisticated cosmetic dental procedures, which include teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, and Invisalign for teeth straightening. Her expertise extends to dental bonding and contouring, as well as complete smile makeovers for patients seeking multiple enhancements. In addition to her cosmetic offerings, she is committed to restorative dentistry, providing solutions such as dental implants for those with missing teeth and full-mouth reconstruction for patients with complex dental needs.

“While many people come to us for aesthetic improvements, my primary focus is on helping patients achieve and maintain good oral health,” says Dr. Fredericks. “I believe that a beautiful smile is rooted in a healthy mouth.”

Dr. Fredericks’ journey in dentistry began with a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from UCLA in 1977, leading her to earn her Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree from the UCLA School of Dentistry in 1981. Furthering her commitment to public health, she completed a Master of Public Health Degree at UCLA in 2016. This educational foundation empowers her to integrate vital public health principles into her practice, ensuring her patients receive comprehensive care.

With over three decades of experience, Dr. Fredericks prioritizes continuing education to stay abreast of advancements in dental technology and techniques. Her practice, Southern Cal Smiles, reflects her dedication to both preventative and advanced restorative dentistry. Dr. Fredericks is well-equipped to handle complex cases, utilizing her extensive knowledge to provide effective solutions in dental implants, periodontal treatments, and advanced procedures.

Dr. Fredericks is not only recognized for her clinical expertise but also her collaborative approach within the dental community. She maintains strong relationships with specialists, including oral surgeons, orthodontists, periodontists, and endodontists, to ensure that her patients receive the best possible outcomes. Her reputation for excellence extends beyond her practice; she is also a trusted reviewer for the California Dental Board, a role few dentists in the state undertake. Her memberships in professional organizations, such as the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the American Dental Association, the California Dental Association, and the San Fernando Valley Dental Association, reflect her commitment to lifelong learning and professional development.

A passionate advocate for community service, Dr. Fredericks dedicates her time to giving back. As a volunteer faculty member at the UCLA School of Dentistry, she mentors students and takes them to the MEND Clinic in Pacoima, where they provide essential dental services to low-income and homeless patients. Additionally, Dr. Fredericks has organized dental missions to Honduras, extending care to communities with limited access to dental services. Her involvement on the Board of Directors for MEND, UCLA School of Dentistry, and West Hills Hospital exemplifies her dedication to improving community health.

On a personal note, Dr. Fredericks resides in Calabasas with her husband. Her passion for healthcare has inspired her children to pursue careers in the medical field. Her daughter, Danielle, a 2016 graduate of the UCLA School of Dentistry, is currently specializing in oral surgery, while her son, Brett, is a medical student in Chicago.

“Being a dentist is not just a job for me; it’s a calling,” states Dr. Fredericks. “I love what I do, and I believe in the importance of empowering the next generation of healthcare professionals.”

At Southern Cal Smiles, patients can expect a warm, welcoming environment where their dental needs are prioritized. Dr. Fredericks and her team are devoted to delivering personalized care tailored to each patient’s unique circumstances and desires. By blending advanced technology with compassionate treatment, Dr. Fredericks aims to create smiles that not only look great but also reflect the health and well-being of her patients.