What You Need to Know About Immediate Dental Implant Placement

Immediate dental implants are often necessary due to a non-restorable fracture of a tooth. In some cases, there may be infection associated with the cracked or fractured tooth. The procedure begins with an exam, 2-D and 3-D x-rays. A diagnosis is made and treatment options are discussed. An immediate dental implant is the treatment of choice. Any pre-operative study models that are needed are taken.

Surgical Procedure:  The patient is generally well sedated with either oral or IV sedation. Just like any other procedure, topical anesthetic is applied prior to local anesthesia administration. Impressions of the teeth are taken if necessary prior to the tooth extraction. The fractured tooth is removed very carefully to minimize any damage to any surrounding bone. At the time of surgery, Dr. Britten can determine if immediate implant placement is possible. This is the part you don’t always know until you get there. Additional bone grafting is often necessary to fill the voids between the dental implant and the remainder of the extraction socket. In addition, a membrane, soft-tissue graft or platelet graft (L-PRF) may be used to protect the bone graft.

As an implant specialist, Dr. Britten is highly trained and experienced in the most advanced and current technologies used for long-term implant health and success. He believes in using the best diagnostic tools as well as the highest quality implants in his practice. Dr. Britten works closely with the best restorative dentists in the Tampa Bay area to obtain the best possible outcome for his patients' implants.  For more information, contact us at 727-586-2681 or visit www.brittenperio.com

https://youtu.be/PD6A88Yq8AU

Ouch! Why does my Wisdom Tooth Hurt?

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

This is Why Braces and Healthy Gums Go Together

If you have crooked teeth, you should schedule a visit to your dentist and ask about braces. Your dentist will likely send you to an orthodontist who will explain you in detail all the benefits of the treatment, the risks and the costs involved.

The number one reason people want braces is to have a beautiful smile. But crooked teeth are not only a cosmetic problem. It is also often a health problem.

Misaligned or crooked teeth can cause problems with your bite. Over time, a bad bite can hurt your teeth and gums by causing wear to the enamel, fractured or broken teeth, and contribute to periodontal disease. A bad bite can also  the jaw bone and the TMJ joint. sometimes leading to lots of other medical problems such as headaches or migraines.

In addition, when your teeth are positioned in the correctly in your mouth, this provides the comfort and the ease of being able to clean your teeth properly.

Make sure your gums are as healthy as they can be before orthodontic treament! Your gums are the tissue that help hold your teeth in place. If your gums are not in good shape, the stress of moving your teeth with braces cause him recession, bone loss and also impact tooth stability.

Dr. Todd Britten works cohesively with the orthodontists and general dentists to provide you with the best care possible. This way, you can be seen by 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.

Please contact us today with any aspect of dentistry that concerns you. Our very knowledgeable staff would be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today 727-586-2681

https://youtu.be/poEQjuLPCXE

What are the 3 parts of a dental implant?

The 3 Main Parts of a Dental Implant

1. The Fixture

The fixture is the bottom of the implant and is the part that is embedded below the gum line, fusing with the jawbone.  It is like the root of the tooth. The fixture is made of titanium and has a cylindrical, screw-shaped design. It is often coated with a material known as hydroxyapatite, which can assist with the process of fusing the implant to the jaw bone. This part is placed first and appropriate healing has to take place before the restorative phase, which includes placing the abutment and crown.

2. The Abutment

The abutment is screwed into the fixture and will eventually hold the actual tooth portion that you see in your mouth. It is a small piece that lies right around the gum line.

3. Implant crown

The crown is cemented or screwed into the abutment. If the prosthesis is a crown or bridge, or snapped onto the abutment if the prosthesis is a bridge or denture.

Dental implants are designed and constructed to be extremely strong and able to last decades, becoming a permanent solution to replace missing or chipped teeth. 

If you have any questions about Dental Implants, please contact our team or make an appointment. Our incredible staff will give you the best dental care possible. Contact us today: 
727-586-2681 or visit www.brittenperio.com

Clearwater Periodontist Shares 3 Types of Restorative Care

1st row:  The top illustrations show abrasions in the enamel at the gumline from using a toothbrush that was too hard. Defects in the enamel at the gumline are also caused by a bad bite from misaligned teeth, or clenching and grinding habits, or can even be from decay. In the top illustration, the teeth are being filled in with tooth-colored filling, known as composite resin.

https://youtu.be/SRogFqfZDPc

2nd row:  When bonded to the surface of teeth, porcelain veneers improve the outer appearance by camouflaging discoloration. They can also be used to close gaps or when other cosmetic improvement is needed.

https://youtu.be/MCohro67QC0

3rd row:  Dental crowns are used to repair and restore larger areas of decay or damage for which tooth-colored fillings or dental bonding will not suffice. The crown covers and strengthens the natural tooth. A crown can be made from a variety of materials, based on the location of the repair and patient needs, including porcelain, ceramic, and zirconia.

https://youtu.be/Ud0CxWLogfo

We don't do this type of restorative work in our office, but we like to use illustrations and videos to help our patients understand how the wonderful restorative dentists we work with can fix their teeth. If you have questions about your teeth or gums, contact us today at 727-586-2681 or visit our website www.brittenperio.com

 

Clearwater Dental Implant Specialist Shares 4 ways to Replace a Missing Tooth

Fixed Bridge

A bridge is an option when there are teeth on either side of the missing tooth.

Advantages
It stays cemented in the mouth and does not come out.

Disadvantages
This does involve cutting down the teeth on either side of the missing tooth to be able to connect them together. Floss threaders, which slide under the bridge, should be used daily, to keep it clean.
The disadvantages for bridges are cutting down teeth that might be perfectly healthy. If there is a leak under the anchor teeth of the bridge, decay can occur below. A bridge can replace one or two missing teeth easily, and sometimes more if there is enough support.

Removable partial denture

A removable partial denture is worn during the day. This is used to replace one or many missing teeth.

Disadvantages 
-Sometimes may need metal clasps to help it stay in the mouth which may be visible when speaking or smiling.
- They move a little when speaking or eating, which can be uncomfortable.
-We recommend taking them out at night and soaking them in a cleaning solution.

Advantages
There is no need to file down any teeth, and this option is usually the most economical. A full denture can replace all missing teeth.

Dental Implant

An implant is a great way to replace a missing tooth.

Advantages
This solution feels and acts the most like a natural tooth when chewing, brushing or smiling. A major advantage is no need to alter any other teeth when placing an implant. An implant is a great solution for a single missing tooth, and even more implants can replace many missing teeth. When smiling or talking there is no way to tell the difference between an implant and a natural tooth.

Disadvantages
The implant replaces the actual root of the missing tooth and heals in the bone for 3 to 7 months and we then begin the restorative phase. We or your dentist then place an abutment, to which a crown will be cemented. Dental implants are usually a more costly option, at least initially, but are often the best long-term investment.

Do Nothing

There is always the option to do nothing.
Advantages
Saves money, at least initially
Disadvantages
When a tooth is removed, the bone shrinks away and the other teeth in the area will shift to fill the gap. This can sometimes lead to other problems like shifting of other teeth, causing bone loss or decay around the existing teeth as they become more difficult to clean.
If you have questions about replacing teeth lost to fractures, decay or gum disease, contact us today at 727-586-2681.
www.brittenperio.com

Dental Implant Advancements in Clearwater, Florida Dr. Todd Britten

Dental implants have become a vital and mandatory option for tooth replacement in recent years. While modern implant dentistry has seen major advancements in popularity and success, not all dental implants are created equal, and no dental implants are guaranteed to last forever.  However, using a high-quality implant as well as a highly trained implant surgeon and restorative dentist, can make a big difference as to whether the implant will last for many years (and preferably a lifetime), which is always our goal.

As an implant specialist, Dr. Britten is highly trained and experienced in the most advanced and current technologies used for long-term implant health and success. He believes in using the best diagnostic tools as well as the highest quality implants in his practice. Dr. Britten works closely with the best restorative dentists in the Tampa Bay area to obtain the best possible outcome for his patients’ implants. For more information, contact us at 727-586-2681 or visit www.brittenperio.com

What is Gum Recession?

Clearwater FL Periodontist Dr. Todd Britten discusses Gum Recession
Clearwater, FL Gum Grafting
Clearwater, FL tissue grafting

Gum recession is the process in which the gum tissue that which surrounds your teeth wears away, or pulls back, exposing the tooth's root. If left untreated, gum recession may ultimately result in tooth loss.

Most people don't notice their gums receding because it occurs very gradually. You may notice tooth sensitivity, or that your tooth looks longer than normal. Sometimes a notch can be felt near the gum line with your fingernail
Gum recession is often caused by periodontal disease. If untreated, gum disease leads to the destruction gum tissue and supporting bone that hold your teeth in place.

Aggressive tooth brushing. If you brush your teeth too hard, it can cause the enamel on your teeth to wear away and your gums to recede.  Clenching and grinding of the teeth can also contribute to gum recession and defects in the tooth roots. Many people do not even realize they have this habit, and many do it in their sleep!

Insufficient dental care. Inadequate brushing, flossing, and rinsing with antibacterial mouthwash makes it easy for plaque to harden into tartar or calculus, a hard substance that builds on and between your teeth and can only be removed by a professional dental cleaning.

Gum recession is not something you want to ignore. If you think your gums are receding, make an appointment with your dentist. There are treatments that can repair the gum and prevent further damage.

Clearwater FL Periodontist Dr. Todd Britten Shares Technology for better healing of dental implants, regenerative periodontal procedures, bone grafting, and extraction sites

Dr. Todd Britten is happy to announce that we are using Platelet Concentrates (L-PRF, or Leukocyte-Platelet Rich Fibrin) to promote healing in dental procedures.

Concentrated blood has been used in hospitals for a long time to accelerate healing.  Leukocyte Rich Platelet Rich Fibrin (L- PRF) is a by-product of a patient’s own blood that can help healing after dental procedures such as a tooth extraction, as well as promote healing around bone or tissue grafts and dental implants.

L-PRF™ is a 3-D autogenous combination of Platelet Rich Fibrin derived from a patient’s blood.  First, it is determined if patient is a candidate for L-PRF treatment.  If so, blood is then drawn in our office from a patient’s arm. The blood is then immediately placed into a centrifuge to separate the blood into layers.  This thin, compressed layer of platelet rich fibrin is strong, pliable and even suitable for suturing. This natural fibrin network is rich in platelets, growth factors (PDGF, BMP, VEGF) and cytokines derived from the blood platelets and white blood cells called leukocytes. These proteins promote rapid healing, especially during the critical first seven days after they are placed.

Growth factors are triggered and released and clot formation is stimulated by blood platelets, fibrin and growth factors to help heal wounds.  Growth factors stimulate stem cells to produce new host tissue quickly, making L-PRF effective in the healing process.

Advantages of using L-PRF also include lower infection risk after surgical dental procedures by sealing a treatment wound from bacteria after treatment.  Saturation of the surgical area, bone graft material and/or dental implant helps increase tissue formation due to its growth factors such as BMP, VEGF and PDGF, and this, in turn, results in faster gum and bone regeneration. Speedier healing decreases the risk of later infections, complications, and discomfort.  The use of this technology has been shown to lower the chance of dry sockets after extraction, which can be very painful.

L-PRF treatments are often used for greater success for necessary procedures for dental implant placement, including socket bone grafts, sinus lifts, ridge augmentation, correcting peri-implantitis, block bone grafts and extraction sites prior to implant placement.L-PRF technology is used to quicken the healing process and is completely safe. Disease transmission is not a factor since blood is drawn from a patient’s own body.  Most patients report a greater degree of comfort during healing even immediately after their procedure. The amount of blood needed is minimal and can be collected easily.

If you have any questions about treatment with platelet rich fibrin/plasma or would like to find out if you are a candidate and can benefit from this treatment, please contact us at 727-586-2681.

Healing From Within With L-PRF

·         Only requires a small blood sample – Virtually painless!

·         100% natural, 100% you -  Biocompatible.

·         No additives, chemicals, or foreign substances – Lowered risk for complications

·         Contains your unique healing properties – Promotes Recovery!

·         Simple procedure – FDA Cleared

Tooth loss and damage to the jaw bone and tissues are often challenging for your dentist during oral surgery or implant placement. Without enough support in the jawbone, dental implants cannot be immediately stabilized and tissue healing can be a long process. The solution to these and other difficult situations is a new Platelet Therapy created from your own blood. Leukocyte –Platelet Rich Fibrin (L-PRF) changes all the rules as it promotes healing and bone growth from within your own body. Unlike other treatments that use artificial components, Platelet Therapy with L-PRF uses only your own blood. With a simple blood draw and an advanced technology protocol, L-PRF is individually made for you – from you. The end results are improved healing response and significantly less recovery time.

L-PRF™ is basically a bioactive “band-aid” that is created from your own blood and then placed in your surgery sites to promote healing. A sample of your blood is collected in a tube, just as it would be for a blood test. The dentist then uses the unique IntraSpin™ System to separate and concentrate certain important cells and active proteins by spinning your own blood in a dedicated centrifuge. After a fast preparation the bioactive clot, created just from your own blood, is now ideal for your procedure.

 After your L-PRF is created, it can be placed directly in/on surgical sites to immediately promote healing. When placed in surgery sites, L-PRF releases your body’s own natural healing proteins, creating a more efficient network for cells to enhance the healing process. Depending on your situation, the doctor may supplement your L-PRF clot with different biomaterials customized for your needs. For patients with significant bone loss, a combination of L-PRF and bone growth material may also be used to promote natural bone regeneration.

The therapy is 100% natural and additive-free. Natural growth factors present in your body are concentrated using L-PRF. Your own concentrated platelets and other key blood cells and their unique healing abilities are simply re-introduced at the site of your surgical procedure. As a result, your own body releases powerful healing proteins, and creates a scaffold for healing.

If you are interested in finding out more about L-PRF, give our office a call and we will be happy to set up an appointment to discuss using L-PRF in your next procedure.

Heal Quicker Using L-PRF, Make An Appointment!  www.brittenperio.com

Clearwater FL Periodontist Offers Laser Therapy LANAP gum surgery

Healthy teeth and gums are important to overall wellness. Gum disease is a common ailment, and there are many people who seek treatment for conditions such as bleeding infected gums, missing teeth, or dental implants. 

Today, patients are benefiting from the latest technology in the realm of periodontal treatment, called laser therapy. Laser therapy is an optimal choice for treating gum disease. This method does not involve drills or scalpels, so as a patient, you will be very comfortable. Laser therapy is non-invasive, resulting in less tissue damage and quicker recovery times. During the procedure, the laser itself acts as a sterilizer, helping to prevent complications such as gum infection or relapse of the disease. 

Dr. Todd Britten offers the latest in laser technology treatment to his patients using the LANAP and LAPIP protocols with the PerioLase, treating gum disease and encouraging healthy gum regeneration.

For more information, contact us at www.brittenperio.com

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.

Clearwater FL Periodontist & Dental Implant Specialist Dr. Todd Britten Discusses: Are all dentures created equal?

We are seeing more and more advertisements for “affordable” dentures. What does “affordable” or "discount denture" mean? Are these dentures the same thing that for a lower, fairer price? Unfortunately, the answer is NO!

There is a big difference in the outcome of customized dentures and "discount" dentures. Here are some of the main differences:

1) Quality dentures take TIME. Multiple visits are necessary to create a totally customized, well-fitting dentures. Beware of advertisements for dentures which can be made in a day. Discount denture centers often tell patients they can get their dentures the “same-day”, but most likely the result will be poor due to a lack of customization. Quality dentures must be tried in to check the bite, fit, and appearance of the teeth (and approved by the patient) before they are finalized. Customized dentures may take more time, but this time in the creation process results in less adjustments, a better looking denture, AND a happier patient.

2) It is wise to use the very best materials from start to finish when creating a denture. Quality dentures cannot be made with cheap materials or by cutting corners. Expert dental lab technicians should be involved in fabricating dentures along with the use of quality materials. This can mean the difference between a denture that looks natural versus one that looks fake, as well as how they fit and how long they last. Many “affordable” or discount dentures broken after just a few months due to the use of cheaper and less durable materials. As the saying goes: You get what you pay for.

3) Also beware, most discount denture centers do not back up their product with quality service and will charge for each and every adjustment, which quickly brings their cost up. Many patients are forced to choose not to have adjustments to their discount dentures because of the price, and they must put up with horrible pain or just leave their dentures in a drawer and go without teeth.

4) Lower dentures can be very difficult to wear. Lower denture treatment discussions, when possible, should include the option of at least two lower dental implants. Not everyone will choose implants due to cost, but everyone deserves to have this option presented. Often in an "affordable denture" situation this is not even offered and the difficulties of wearing a lower denture are not fully explained.

5) Dentures need regular maintenance such as relines from time to time. Customized dentures are easier to maintain, reline, repair and adjust due to the better quality of their material.

While our main goal is to save teeth and avoid dentures, our office is fortunate to work with many restorative dentists who are extensively trained and talented in the creation quality dentures. Dr. Britten is also an implant specialist trained in placing implants to retain dentures. For more questions about dentures, implant - supported dentures, or avoiding dentures, contact us today at healthysmiles@brittenperio.com or 727-586-2681.

Or visit our website at www.brittenperio.com