What to expect from a Tissue Grafting Procedure

When recession of the gum tissue occurs, the body loses a natural defense against both bacterial penetration and trauma. When gum recession is a problem, gum reconstruction using grafting techniques is an excellent option.

“Tissue grafting is recommended when you have gum recession that has left the root of a tooth exposed, or you are at risk of root exposure due to recession. It is a common procedure that is intended to recreate your gum line and prevent further deterioration of the gums, enhancing the appearance of your smile.

Gum recession can be caused by:

• Aggressive toothbrushing
• Gum disease
• Gum tissue that is naturally thin
• Previous orthodontic treatments
• Previous tooth loss

What are benefits of soft tissue grafting?

• Prevention or reduction of sensitivity by covering exposed root
• Protection from future cavities
• Symmetry in your gum line, creating an improved smile
• Creation of a suitable environment for implant placement

Why is thicker tissue better than thin?

Thick gum tissue is critical to maintaining a healthy gum line and mouth. It makes your gums more resistant to recession over time and is more comfortable to brush. Additionally, thick gum tissue is important for achieving aesthetic results.”

-Zimmer Dental

Ouch! Why do wisdom teeth get infected?

How does a wisdom tooth become infected? What can happen? What can be done? Watch the video with sound for answers to these questions.

Dr. Britten normally refers to an oral surgeon for the extraction of wisdom teeth, unless gum surgery is being performed to treat other areas right next to a problematic wisdom tooth.

We work cohesively with the best dentists, prosthodontists, orthodontists, endodontists, oral surgeons, and pedodontists to provide you with the best care possible. We have a team of dentists that focuses on the area that they are trained and most skilled at and work together to provide the best care. The advantages? We strongly believe you will receive a higher quality of care and better end result.

If you have any questions about wisdom teeth or any aspect of dentistry, contact us today! 

www.brittenperio.com
727-586-2681

https://youtu.be/EjlOgvraEHU

How scaling and root planing procedures can help treat gum disease

How scaling and root planing procedures can help treat gum disease

https://youtu.be/6-CKhC1_XTo

The human mouth is filled with bacteria.  These bacteria, along with mucous and other particles form a sticky film called plaque is constantly forming and which adheres to the teeth.  This plaque can be removed by brushing and flossing.  When the plaque is allowed to remain on the teeth, the bacteria involved become more harmful, and more difficult to remove, creating an environment that is more toxic to the tissue.  The plaque itself can harden creating a cement like substance (calculus) that cannot be removed with brushing and flossing alone.

Your gum tissue does not attach directly to your teeth. There is a space or pocket between the gum and the tooth before it attaches. The pocket gets deeper when plaque, tartar and inflammation are present. This leads to inflammation and gum disease. The gums become irritated and begin to separate from the tooth, creating a periodontal pocket.

The bacteria and infection causing the detachment needs to be addressed.

Scaling and Root Planing

Non Surgical Periodontal Therapy includes a very important option known as scaling and root planing or “a deep cleaning”  This is often recommended as the first step in periodontal therapy. Treatment is usually done by one of our hygienists using local anesthesia to provide comfort for the patient as the root surfaces in deep periodontal pockets are debrided to remove calculus or “tartar” and to smooth the root surfaces to remove bacterial toxins. This may take more than one visit with the hygienist and is followed up with a visit with Dr. Britten in four to six weeks to re­evaluate the periodontal tissues.

If you have any questions about gum disease or its treatments, please contact our team or make an appointment. Our incredible staff will give you the best dental care possible.

www.brittenperio.com
727-586-2681

Diseased Dental Implants Can Be Saved with LAPIP laser procedure in Clearwater Florida

Dental implants are a great way to give you a beautiful and functional smile, they are not without limitations. Some patients could experience swelling or infection around their implants, which is known as peri-implantitis.

If you noticed a change in your implants, Dr. Todd Britten can provide a breakthrough procedure following the LAPIP® protocol.

How the Procedure Works

This procedure is minimally invasive, due to the use of cutting-edge, gentle laser technology. This allows Dr. Britten to treat peri-implantitis without the need for incisions.

During the procedure, our state-of-the-art PerioLase laser targets the inflamed area of the gum tissue and eliminates harmful bacteria and infection that has developed. There is no need to worry about an extensive recovery period, sutures or any incisions.

The importance of eliminating unhealthy tissue

Even though dental implants are a great option for patients who have lost their teeth due to periodontal disease, the disease can still continue even around dental implants.

It is essential that diseased implants receive proper treatment as soon as possible to protect these implants, other teeth, bone structure and oral health.

If you think your gums might be inflamed around your dental implants, schedule an appointment with us today. Contact us today to learn more about the LAPIP® protocol and its many benefits to you and your oral health.

www.brittenperio.com

#lapip #lapipperiodontist #clearwaterperiodontist #lasersurgery #LANAP #LAPIP #dentalimplantsclearwater

Ridge Augmentation and Preservation Procedures in Clearwater, FL

Careful management of extraction sockets after a tooth is removed prevents unsightly bone loss and provides a better cosmetic outcome for tooth replacement. To increase the possibility of future implant placement, and to prevent more bone resorption, a ridge preservation procedure may be recommended. Without the use of a bone graft and collagen barrier at the time of extraction, studies show that 30­-40% of the jaw bone is immediately lost. This is because your body perceives that once the root is removed, the bone is no longer needed and your body absorbs or removes it, creating a ridge deformity.

These ridge deformities leave you with inadequate bone and tissue thickness for either bridge or dental implant restoration. The defects may have been caused by trauma, developmental defects, periodontal disease, the wearing of dentures, or through previous tooth loss.

Ridge augmentation procedures have been shown to greatly enhance the cleansability and appearance of your restorations. They increase your chance for long ­term successful dental restoration, both esthetically and functionally. Ridge augmentation procedures may be performed with gum tissue and/or bone grafting materials.

www.brittenperio.com

727-586-2681

Clearwater FL Periodontist Holds 3rd Annual Veteran's Day Event

Dr. Todd M. Britten and the team at Britten Periodontics & Implant Dentistry had an early start on Veteran's Day which is Friday, November 11th. They held their 3rd annual Free Dental Day for Veterans on Friday, November 3rd, 2017. Britten Periodontics once again had overwhelming offers to help from many dental professionals in the community willing to donate their time and resources to provide free dental care. Patients were directed to the event this year from The Homeless Emergency Project in Clearwater, as well as local V.A. Branches from Pinellas, Pasco and Hillsborough counties.

“Once again, we have had an incredible response from the community and were able to get skilled and compassione local restorative dentists involved.” For the third year in a row, Clearwater Dental Associates, Dr. Jim Hayslett and Dr. Keith Kiskadden and their staff are on board to help out with our event, seeing patients for fillings, crowns and even dentures. New to this year’s event, Dr. Michael Podlusky in Seminole, Florida, also reached out to Dr. Britten to also help, making upper and lower dentures at no-cost for one of the patients. "Many thanks to Dr. Britten for organizing the Veteran's Day Event and graciously offering me the opportunity to help treat a patient. So glad to help at least one of our honored Vets. One person can't do everything, but all of us working together surely can!" Said Dr. Mike Podlusky.   

Dr. Britten’s dental specialty, periodontics, often involves managing and treating advanced gum disease. A periodontist is often able to help a patient in danger of losing teeth or with active oral infection to turn their health around. “Having Clearwater Dental Associates involved again this year, and the gracious help of Dr. Mike Podlusky and his team enables us to provide more comprehensive care to our veterans. Being a periodontist, my specialty is really the surrounding structures of the teeth; roots, gum and bone. My job is to help with the foundation. Having the restorative specialists involved helps us to treat the whole mouth and really deliver comprehensive care to these veterans.” Dr. Britten sees most patients for a comprehensive evaluation, radiographs and treatment consult prior to the event in order to determine what services he as the gum specialist can provide in his office, and make appropriate referral for restorative care from local dentists who have volunteered to help with the event.

Britten says being able to offer two different forms of sedation to Veterans for this event in his Clearwater, FL practice has helped for patients who have PTSD, dental anxiety, or may require extensive surgical treatment.  Dr. Britten expressed his concern. “Most of the time, periodontal disease is not painful until it gets to be very advanced. Some of the veterans had been dealing with painful teeth for a long time.”

For Britten and his team this event is something they look forward to all year long. They keep in touch with veterans from previous events and this year they were able to provide follow up exams, x-rays and periodontal maintenance procedures, which help prevent reinfection of the gums following treatment. “This year we were able to invite Veterans from previous events to receive follow up maintenance care at this year’s event,” said one dental hygienist at Britten Periodontics who helped organize this year’s event. "It was great to see them again and the progress they have made in their oral health. It is touching to be a part of something that has changed someone's life in such a positive way."

One patient returning this year received treatment at the inaugural event was John Smith, who served in the US Navy in Vietnam from 1965-1969. Dr. Britten explained that he was honored to be able to help Mr. Smith and to continue in his care since the 2015 event. The VFW Post 2473 in Clearwater where Mr. Smith serves as canteen manager does much to help local veterans.

When asked what this event meant to him in 2015, Smith had stated, "I get to keep my teeth and I can't believe it's free." A patient new to this year's event, Yvette said, "This was the most amazing dental cleaning I have had in my whole life!"

Dr. Todd Britten explained how glad he is to be doing this the third year in a row and would like to do it annually for the entirety of his career. When asked why this is a cause so near and dear to his heart he stated that his grandfathers and uncles served in the military and giving back to veterans in need is a top priority for him. Dr. Britten said, “The entire staff at Britten Periodontics is so grateful to the men and women in the military that make so many sacrifices for our freedom.”

Britten Periodontics & Implant Dentistry is a periodontal practice offering patients personalized dental care in implant dentistry in Clearwater, Florida. Dr. Todd Britten received his Bachelor of Science & Doctorate of Dental Surgery from University of Florida, a Master’s Degree and Certificate in Periodontology and Implant Dentistry; and completed extensive training at the Institute of Advanced Laser Dentistry. He is one of the only board-certified periodontists in Pinellas County. He is a member of the American Academy of Periodontology, American Dental Association, Florida Association of Periodontists, Upper Pinellas County Dental Association, Hillsborough County Dental Association, Hillsborough County Dental Research Association and Florida West Coast Dental Association.

www.brittenperio.com

Clearwater Periodontist Dr. Todd Britten Shares: Is it worth investing in a power toothbrush?

Most of our patients can tell the difference in how their teeth and gums feel when they switch to a power toothbrush. Dr. Britten and his team can also typically tell when a patient uses an electric toothbrush versus a manual toothbrush – as there is usually a noticeable difference in the amount of plaque present as well as a patient’s gum tissue tone and color.

Improving oral health will improve overall health, a reason most patients will be happy to make the extra investment for a powerbrush. An electric toothbrush (our favorite professional-grade brands typically run from $150-200) is only a fraction of what it costs to complete most dental procedures. In the end, investing in a good power toothbrush, changing brush heads every 90 days, and using the proper technique will save you money!

Why choose a powerbrush?

Power toothbrushes usually have built in features with an advantage for better oral health.

Timer - Many brands feature a timer to ensure patients brush for a full two minutes, and may also have a pressure indicator to pause brushing or to let patients know if they’re brushing too hard and possibly damaging their gums. The Phillips Sonicare, one of our favorites, hesitates every 30 seconds, to help a patient distribute their brushing in all four sections of the mouth.

More effectively disrupts and removes harmful bacteria in the mouth. The sonic vibrating or oscillating of bristles from an electric brush remove sticky plaque bacteria effectively and stimulate the gum tissue, reducing inflammation. Electrics brushes operate at 30,000 strokes per minute while a manual is only 200 strokes.

Simpler technique. With a power toothbrush, all you have to do is move the brush from tooth to tooth, spending a few seconds at a time. The professional line of powerbrushes from Philips Sonicare are definitely our favorite because they can penetrate below the gum line to disrupt the bacterial environment formed by plaque. Other brands, most notably the Oral B have brush heads that oscillate in a half-circle motion to remove biofilm (plaque) from the tooth surface.

Gentle and safe at the gumline. Using a powerbrush with the correct technique will help prevent gum recession, enamel abrasion (wearing away) and tooth sensitivity from improper brushing as well as tooth decay and gum disease. Even with their phenomenal power, power toothbrushes such as the Sonicare are still very gentle on the teeth and gums. If patients have gum recession, they can just place the brush on the tooth without using a scrubbing action, which can traumatize and wear away more thin and delicate gum tissue.

Stain removal. Electric toothbrushes help with stain removal, which is attractive to patients who really want a bright, white smile. Some Sonicare models come with a “whitening” setting or even special polishing brush heads.

Helps those with dexterity issues. Elderly patients or others with dexterity issues can also benefit from electric toothbrushes. Many patients can’t move their hands the way they need to, so if they use a manual brush, they’re likely leaving plaque behind. Powerbrushes help remove plaque from the teeth for them, so as long as they get it close to where it needs to be, it’s going to remove plaque and help prevent problems.

Great for kids. Electric toothbrushes are also great options for children, especially if they have braces!

Less time brushing, with a better result! In two minutes, a power toothbrush will remove plaque and massage and stimulate gum tissue more effectively than the minimum of four minutes you would need to brush with a manual toothbrush.

For more information on the proper technique for healthy teeth and gums using a power toothbrush (and other helpful oral hygiene tips) visit http://brittenperio.com/oral-health/oral-hygiene/

#wednesdaywisdom #wednesdaywellness #clearwaterperiodontist

Clearwater FL Periodontist Dr. Todd Britten Welcomes You!

I haven't been to the dentist in a long time! What do I need to do?

Please know that you are not alone! Whether you have been away from the dentist for 6 months or 6 years, it’s never too late to get back into a good and healthy routine.  We are here to help!  Call us to schedule a thorough and educational exam appointment. 

We are grateful for the opportunity to assist you in achieving a healthy and functional smile.
Your initial exam will last approximately one hour. We will review your medical and dental history and perform a thorough examination of your teeth and gums.  This will include looking for signs of periodontal disease, gum recession, tooth looseness, and missing teeth.  Dr. Britten will also check your bite (occlusion) and perform an oral cancer screening exam.

During this initial consultation we will be able to provide a diagnosis of your periodontal condition and propose a treatment plan to improve your dental health.  Occasionally, Dr. Britten prefers additional time to review his findings and “do his homework” so that he can provide the best ​recommended treatment options.  We may then ask you to return for a complimentary second consultation visit.  

Dr. Todd Britten and his talented and experienced staff are focused on providing patient-centered care, and we take the time to explain to our patients the risks, benefits, and alternative options they have with any dental treatment. Our practice is very warm and compassionate, and we are sensitive to the needs of each individual patient. Contact our Clearwater periodontal office today to schedule an appointment at 727-586-2681 or visit our website at www.brittenperio.com

Clearwater Periodontist Dr. Todd Britten talks about Custom Fitted Nightguards

 

Many people clench or grind their teeth whether they realize it or not. Clenching and grinding can be detrimental to your teeth and to their supporting structures (gum tissues and bone). It can cause wear on the biting surfaces, root defects, gum recession, contribute to gum disease and tooth shifting and mobility, and cause muscular and TMJ (joint) issues.

Most people are completely unaware that they do it, because it happens while they are sleeping. Many patients do not realize they grind their teeth and find the thought of wearing a night guard very unappealing.

Nightguards purchased online or at the drug store are not custom fitted, they are usual one size fits all or boil & bites. They can be large, unattractive, poorly fitting and may even come out during the grinding.

Your dentist is trained in how a persons' bite should function, how the teeth should come together and will take into account your specific situation and grinding pattern. Your dentist’s office will take impressions of your teeth so that the dental lab can make a might guard that is the exact match to your teeth.

Although the initial investment may be greater, a custom fit nightguard can be an extremely worthwhile investment in the long run. It is designed by your dentist to fit your teeth exactly and is much more likely than a store bought guard to prevent you from needing more expensive dental work in the future. In many case, dental insurance covers all or part of the cost.

Dr. Britten can check your teeth and bite for signs of abnormal clenching and grinding and work with your dentist to fabricate the right appliance for you. Contact our office at 728-586-2681, via email at healthysmiles@brittenperio.com or visit our website atwww.brittenperio.com with any questions or concerns you have.

Show less

Clearwater FL Periodontist Shares: Is Periodontal Disease Contagious?

Is PERIODONTAL DISEASE CONTAGIOUS?
From Perio.org:
"Research has shown that periodontal disease is caused by the inflammatory reaction to bacteria under the gums, so periodontal disease technically may not be contagious.

However, the bacteria that cause the inflammatory reaction can be spread through saliva. This means that if one of your family members has periodontal disease, it’s a good idea to avoid contact with their saliva by not sharing eating utensils or oral health equipment.

If you notice that your spouse or a family member has the warning signs of a possible periodontal problem (bleeding, red and swollen gums, or bad breath) you may want to suggest that they see the periodontist for an exam. It may help to protect the oral health of everyone in the family."

If you have any questions, please contact us 727-586-2681 or email healthysmiles@brittenperio.com

Show less

Dr. Todd M. Britten, DMD, M.S.'s photos

1

Add a comment...

Clearwater FL Periodontist Dr. Todd Britten Shares: Clenching and Grinding of Teeth, contributes to periodontal disease

Over 60 million Americans grind their teeth at night

Do you ever wake up with an aching jaw, tooth sensitivity or notice that your teeth seem to be shifting or loosening? Clenching or grinding your teeth can put excessive force on the supporting tissues of the teeth and could speed up the rate at which periodontal tissues are destroyed. Teeth grinding or clenching can also cause abnormal wear and tear on the teeth which will prematurely age and loosen them, causing problems such as hypersensitivity (from the small cracks that form, exposing your dentin). Clenching or grinding, known as bruxism, can also lead to chronic jaw and facial pain, as well as headaches.

If no one has told you that you grind your teeth, here are a few clues that you may suffer from bruxism:

Your jaw is sore often, or you hear popping sounds when you open and close your mouth.
Your teeth look short or worn down.
You notice dents in your tongue, especially along the edges.

A common therapy involves use of a special appliance worn while sleeping which your dentist can custom fit for you.

Dr. Britten can evaluate you for evidence of clenching or grinding and make the appropriate recommendation to avoid further damage to your teeth, gums and TMJ.

If you have any questions or concerns about bruxism, please contact our office at 727-586-2681 or visit our website at www.brittenperio.com.  

Clearwater FL Periodontist Todd Britten Shares: What is Periodontal Disease?

What is periodontal disease?

Q: What is periodontal disease?

A: Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, often begins as a buildup of plaque on the tooth's surface near the gum line. If this plaque is not removed by brushing and flossing regularly, it can harden into what your dentist calls tartar. Plaque will continue to build up over the tartar, eventually causing the gums to become red, swollen, and irritated. This is known as gingivitis and is the first stage of periodontal disease. If leftuntreated, gingivitis can turn into periodontal disease.

What are the symptoms of periodontal disease?
-Red, swollen, sore gums
-Gums that bleed when brushing and flossing
-Teeth that appear longer or become loose
-Large spaces that form between the teeth
-Gums that begin to pull away from the teeth
-Chronic bad breath

Periodontal disease, if left untreated, can contribute to other health problems including heart disease and diabetes. If you're pregnant, having periodontal disease is also linked to premature birth or low birth weight. Your smile's health affects the overall health of your body.

As a periodontist, Dr Britten enjoys making a positive impact in our patients’ lives by improving their smiles as well as their comfort and health. We believe in delivering state of the art care with a gentle touch in a lighthearted environment. If you have any questions about your periodontal (gum) health, please contact our office at 727-586-2681 or visit our website at www.brittenperio.com.

Clearwater Periodontist Dr. Todd Britten: Periodontal Disease Can Be Treated and Controlled

Periodontal Disease Can Be Controlled and Treated

Periodontal Disease Can Be Controlled and Treated

Your dentist and/or dental hygienist routinely perform an examination of your gum tissue health which includes periodontal probing, or measuring of the depth of your gums.

Unhealthy gums pull away from the teeth and form "pockets" that are infected. The body's immune system fights bacteria as the plaque spreads and grows below the gum line. Bacterial toxins and the body's own enzymes fighting the infection start to break down the bone and connective tissue that hold teeth in place. If not treated, the bones, gums, and connective tissue that support the teeth are destroyed. The teeth may eventually become loose and have to be removed.

Periodontal disease – and the harmful affects to the gums and supporting structures of the teeth – can be controlled and treated. Improvement to our patients’ overall health is also often dramatically improved.

The health improvement is easy to appreciate when you consider living with an active bacterial infection, easily exposed to one’s bloodstream, can have a detrimental affect beyond the harm to the tooth and gums.

If you have symptoms of gum disease, contact us immediately. Gum disease addressed early can be reversed – and gum disease addressed later can be controlled. For more information, please contact our office at 727-586-2681 or www.brittenperio.com.