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Third molar extraction treatment by Clearwater, FL periodontist at Britten Periodontics

Why You Should Consider Having Your Wisdom Teeth Removed

Why You Should Consider Having Your Wisdom Teeth Removed

Are you or someone you know facing the decision of whether to remove your wisdom teeth? Here are some key reasons why getting your third molars (wisdom teeth) removed might be the best choice for your oral health:
 
– Prevent Crowding and Alignment Issues: Wisdom teeth can push against your other teeth as they emerge, causing crowding and shifting that can undo years of orthodontic work.
– Reduce Risk of Infection and Decay: Partially erupted wisdom teeth are prone to infection and decay because they are hard to clean. Removing them reduces the risk of painful and recurring infections.
– Avoid Cysts and Tumors: Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to the development of cysts and, in rare cases, tumors, which can damage the jawbone and surrounding teeth.
– Alleviate Pain and Discomfort: Impacted wisdom teeth can cause significant pain, swelling, and discomfort in the jaw, gums, and surrounding areas. Removal can provide relief and prevent these issues.
– Prevent Damage to Adjacent Teeth: The pressure from emerging wisdom teeth can damage adjacent molars, leading to cavities, root resorption, and even tooth loss.
– Promote Better Oral Hygiene: Removing wisdom teeth makes it easier to maintain oral hygiene since there are fewer hard-to-reach areas where food and bacteria can get trapped.
– Prevent Future Problems: Many dentists recommend removing wisdom teeth before they cause problems. Early removal can lead to a smoother recovery and fewer complications.
 
Discuss with your dentist or oral surgeon to determine the best plan for your wisdom teeth. Proactive care can save you from future pain and extensive dental procedures. Your oral health is worth it!

Toothbrush abrasion treatment by Clearwater, FL periodontist at Britten Periodontics

Understanding Toothbrush Abrasion

Understanding Toothbrush Abrasion

Toothbrush abrasion refers to the wear and damage to the teeth and gums caused by improper or overly aggressive tooth brushing. This condition can lead to a variety of dental problems, including:
 
– Enamel Erosion: Over time, excessive brushing can erode the enamel, the hard outer layer of the teeth, making them more susceptible to decay and sensitivity.
– Gum Recession: Vigorous brushing can cause the gums to recede, exposing the roots of the teeth, which are more sensitive and prone to decay.
– Dentin Exposure: With enamel erosion and gum recession, the underlying dentin layer becomes exposed, leading to increased tooth sensitivity and risk of cavities.
– Tooth Wear: Abrasive brushing can cause visible wear on the surfaces of the teeth, affecting their appearance and function.
 
Preventing Toothbrush Abrasion
 
– Use a Soft-bristled Toothbrush: Choose a toothbrush with soft bristles to minimize abrasion on teeth and gums.
– Adopt Proper Brushing Technique: Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums and use gentle, circular motions rather than harsh back-and-forth scrubbing.
– Limit Brushing Time and Frequency: Brush for two minutes, twice a day. Avoid brushing more than three times a day as it can cause more harm than good.
– Choose a Non-abrasive Toothpaste: Some toothpaste contains abrasive particles. Opt for those labeled as gentle or for sensitive teeth.
– Use Light Pressure: Apply only gentle pressure when brushing. If the bristles of your toothbrush splay out over time, you might be brushing too hard,
– Consider Electric Toothbrushes: Electric toothbrushes often come with pressure sensors and timers to help ensure you brush gently and for the correct amount of time. We love the Philips Sonicare!
If you suspect you have toothbrush abrasion, it’s important to consult your dentist. They can assess the extent of the damage and recommend appropriate treatments, such as desensitizing toothpaste, fluoride treatments, or in severe cases, gum grafting or dental restorations to repair loss of gum tissue and/or worn teeth.
Clearwater periodontist Dr. Todd Britten at Britten Periodontics dental office

Exploring Advanced Techniques in Periodontal Surgery

Advanced Techniques in Periodontal Surgery: Innovations for Improved Oral Health

In the ever-evolving landscape of dental care, advancements in periodontal surgery have transformed the way we approach the treatment of gum disease and related issues. From innovative technologies to refined surgical techniques, these advancements offer new hope for patients seeking improved oral health and wellbeing.

Laser Therapy: Precision and Efficiency

One of the most significant advancements in periodontal surgery is the widespread adoption of laser therapy. Laser-assisted procedures offer several advantages:

  • Precision: Lasers target diseased tissue with unparalleled accuracy, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
  • Minimal Discomfort: Laser therapy is generally associated with less pain and discomfort compared to osseous surgery, reducing the need for anesthesia and post-operative medication.
  • Faster healing: The precise nature of laser therapy promotes faster healing times, allowing patients to resume their normal activities sooner.

Guided Tissue Regeneration: Restoring Function and Aesthetics

Guided tissue regeneration (GTR) is another advanced technique revolutionizing periodontal surgery. This procedure involves the use of barrier membranes to promote the regeneration of lost gum and bone tissues, ultimately restoring both function and aesthetics. Key benefits of GTR include:

  • Tissue Regeneration: GTR encourages the growth of new bone and gum tissue, reversing the damage caused by periodontal disease.
  • Preservation of Tooth Structure: By promoting tissue regeneration, GTR helps preserve the natural structure of the teeth and surrounding tissues.
  • Long-Term Results: With proper post-operative care, the results of guided tissue regeneration can be long-lasting, providing lasting benefits for patients.

Advancements in Dental Implant Surgery: Innovations for a Brighter Smile

Dental implant surgery has undergone remarkable advancements in recent years, revolutionizing the way we restore missing teeth and rejuvenate smiles. From improved materials to cutting-edge techniques, these innovations have advanced the safety, effectiveness, and aesthetics of dental implant procedures, offering new hope to patients seeking durable and natural-looking teeth replacements. Some of these advances include:

  • Enhanced Imaging: CBCT scans provide 3D images of the jawbone and surrounding structures, allowing for precise treatment planning and placement of dental implants.
  • Digital Impressions: Digital models allow for the creation of virtual models, helping for the design of custom-made implant restorations that blend seamlessly with natural teeth.
  • Improved surgical techniques which provide reduced trauma, faster recovery, and preservation of bone structure.
  • Advanced Materials: Significant improvements have been made resulting in implants that are stronger, more biocompatible , and more aesthetically pleasing.

Advanced techniques in periodontal surgery have transformed periodontal treatment with highly predictable, minimally invasive, and aesthetic treatment options for patients. As technology continues to evolve, the future holds even greater promise for periodontal and implant dentistry, paving the way for continued improvements in patient care and satisfaction.

Woman visiting Britten Periodontics in Clearwater, Florida

The Importance of Gum Health: Understanding Periodontal Disease

The Importance of Gum Health: Understanding Periodontal Disease

Gum health is often overlooked, yet it plays a crucial role in our overall well-being. Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease is a prevalent condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the tissues surrounding the teeth. It typically begins with gingivitis, characterized by red, swollen gums that bleed easily. Without proper treatment, gingivitis can lead to periodontitis, where the infection spreads deeper into the gums and bone supporting the teeth. This can eventually lead to tooth loss if left untreated.

Some Risk Factors for Periodontal Disease

  • Poor oral hygiene
  • Smoking and Tobacco Use
  • Genetic factors
  • Certain medications
  • Underlying health conditions such as diabetes

Signs and Symptoms

  • Red and swollen gums
  • Persisten bad breath
  • Gums that bleed during brushing or flossing
  • Receding gums
  • Loose or shifting teeth

Complications of Untreated Periodontal Disease

  • Increased risk of systemic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory infections, and adverse pregnancy outcomes
  • Toothloss
  • Jawbone deterioration
  • Significant impact on quality of life

Prevention and Treatment:

  • Proper Oral Hygiene: Brushing and interproximal care between the teeth with floss, proxabrushes or softpicks
  • Regular dental checkups and hygiene maintenance
  • Balanced Diet
  • Avoiding tobacco
  • Managing underlying health conditions

If diagnosed with gum disease, your dentist may recommend professional cleanings, scaling and root planing, antibiotic therapy, or surgical interventions to restore gum health and prevent further damage.

Gum health is a cornerstone of overall wellness, and understanding periodontal disease is essential for maintaining a healthy smile and body. By prioritizing oral hygiene, adopting healthy lifestyle habits, and seeking timely dental care, you can safeguard your gums and reduce your risk of gum disease and its associated complications. Remember, your smile is worth protecting, so invest in your gum health today for a brighter tomorrow!

Tori removal treatment by Clearwater, FL periodontist at Britten Periodontics
Gum recession and root defect treatment by Clearwater, FL periodontist at Britten Periodontics
Smoking side effects to oral cavity by Clearwater, FL periodontist at Britten Periodontics

Oral Changes Associated with Tobacco Use

Oral Changes Associated with Tobacco Use

The evidence is overwhelming that smoking contributes to periodontal disease and that continued smoking results in a reduced response to periodontal treatment. There is a greater amount of bone loss around teeth in smokers and individuals who smoke are more likely to lose teeth than nonsmokers. It is reported that more than half of advanced gum disease can be linked to tobacco use.

Nicotinic Stomatitis
In nicotinic stomatitis, the hard palate (roof of the mouth- pictured above) appears white instead of pink, and numerous, small raised areas with red centers are found throughout the palate. These red areas are irritated minor salivary glands whose duct openings are inflamed in response to the heat from tobacco products. This lesion is most commonly seen in older male tobacco users who smoke pipes but it also can be found in cigar and cigarette smokers.

There is an increased risk for cancer of the tonsils, posterior mouth, and lungs in individuals who develop nicotinic stomatitis from their tobacco use. However, if the individual stops their tobacco use, the appearance of hard palate typically returns to normal within a few weeks.

Gingival graft treatment by Clearwater, FL periodontist at Britten Periodontics

Gum Grafting Can Improve Your Oral Health – Here’s How!

Gum Grafting Can Improve Your Oral Health – Here’s How!

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.

When there is only minor recession, some healthy gum tissue often remains and protects the tooth, so that no treatment other than modifying home care practices is necessary. However, when no firm gum tissue remains, this leaves the roots of the teeth and the underlying bone relatively unprotected, which could result in root sensitivity, bacterial penetration, decay and even loss of teeth.

A gingival graft is designed to address these problems. A thin piece of tissue is taken from the roof of the mouth or gently moved over from adjacent areas to provide a stable band of attached gum tissue around the tooth. The gingival graft may be placed in such a way as to cover the exposed portion of the root, however, the main objective is to re­establish the protective barrier or layer of the gum around the tooth. Occasionally, the patient may need multiple procedures to achieve the ideal amount of root coverage.

Dr. Britten has trained in the latest minimally invasive techniques of gum grafting and can often perform the entire procedure through a pinhole incision.

Implant Dentistry treatment by Clearwater, FL periodontist at Britten Periodontics

How 3-D Technology is Revolutionizing Implant Dentistry for Patients

How 3-D Technology is Revolutionizing Implant Dentistry for Patients

Here at Britten Periodontics, as a periodontist and dental implant specialist, Dr. Todd Britten wants to ensure his dental implant patients have the best care possible using the latest technology available. By using advanced 3-D technology, Dr. Britten explains that he is able to obtain and review high-quality images for dental implant planning and even create a 3-D printed surgical guide.

When a patient is ready for a dental implant, Dr. Britten explains the first step is often to take a 3-D CT scan. Dr. Britten said he invested in a scanner that is both comfortable for patients, but provides high quality images at the lowest radiation levels possible. “The PAX-i3D Green is a digital imaging system that provides multiple views of a patient’s jaw and mouth. A 3-D digital scan can now be taken at the same visit in place of a tradition dental impression.” We have a Medit i-700 scanner, making the scanning experience for our patients comfortable and easy. This digital impression can be done at the same visit as the CT scan.

Oral hygiene instructions by Dr. Todd Britten, Clearwater periodontist

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