• (727) 586-2681
  • 1472 Jordan Hills Court, Clearwater, FL 33756

clearwater periodontist

Discount Dentures: Worth It?

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

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Do you have sleep apnea?

The AADSM (The American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine) recommends dentists evaluate patients for the following conditions as possible indicators of Sleep Apnea:

• A thick neck (greater than 16 inches in a woman or 17 inches in a man)

• A short neck

• Lower-face abnormalities, which may include:

* A large tongue

• A crowded posterior airway (such as caused by an enlarged, floppy uvula or enlarged tonsils)

• An enlarged soft palate that rests on the base of the tongue

• Obesity

• Complaints of being overly tired during the day, low on energy, depressed, or moody

• Falling asleep in dental chair

• Trouble opening mouth wide during dental examination

The most successful treatment for Obstructive Sleep Apnea is a CPA appliance, however, 60% to 83% percent of users cannot tolerate this device.

With the high rejection rate of the CPAP, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine designated dental sleep oral appliances as the No. 1 nonsurgical alternative for the CPAP intolerant. Numerous sleep appliances are available to the public and distributed through dentists.

Your dental professional can help you identify if a sleep appliance may help you.

Tooth Wear: Why it Matters

Treating Worn Teeth – Fortunately, modern dentistry can restore the normal shape, appearance and function of worn teeth — beautifully and successfully!

The cause of tooth wear must be determined during an oral examination at the dental office. Once the cause has been identified, the stresses on your teeth can be reduced if need be. For example, you may need instruction on gentle, effective tooth brushing techniques; or some changes to your diet. If you have a clenching or grinding habit, a mouthguard can be custom-made for you that will protect your teeth during sleep or periods of high stress.

Lost tooth structure sometimes needs to be replaced so your bite functions properly and your teeth look great once again. Depending on the situation, this can be done with bonding, veneers, or crowns.

Watch this video from Spear Education

https://spearedu.co/OMYgKcH

Treatment for Cracked Teeth

What treatment is best for a cracked tooth depends on the extent and the severity of the damage. If a small crack is detected early enough, it’s often possible to seal the fissure with restorative materials. For larger cracks that involve the pulp of the tooth, root canal treatment is generally required. Afterward, the visible structure of the tooth may be restored with a crown or “cap.” Sometimes, additional procedures may be recommended to try and save the tooth. In the most severe cases, however, the tooth will need to be extracted.

The preferred treatment for cracked teeth is — you guessed it — prevention! Wearing proper protective equipment (including a custom-fitted mouthguard) when playing sports, and staying alert to dangerous situations (like distracted or impaired driving) can help keep you safe. So can regular dental checkups, where your teeth are examined carefully for early signs of a problem. However, if you experience any symptoms that could indicate a cracked tooth, don’t wait: The sooner it’s treated, the better the chance that we can save it.

Watch this video from Spear Education

5 Ways to Replace a Missing Tooth

It is unfortunate when someone loses a tooth, but there are usually several options to replace it.

  1. Removable Partial Denture
  • Worn during the day, can replace one or many missing. We recommend taking them out at night and soaking them in a cleaning solution.  teeth.  Sometimes a partial denture may need metal clasps to help it stay in the mouth.
  • Unfortunately, these metal clasps may be visible when speaking or smiling.
  • They can move a little when speaking or eating, which can be uncomfortable.
  • No need to file down any teeth.
  • This option is often the most economical.

2.  Temporary Partial Denture

  • A short term solution for a missing tooth.
  • We call it a “flipper” because it flips in and out easily.
  • This is used when the tooth will be restored in the future with a bridge or an implant, but is worn during the healing phase.
  • Much like a removable partial denture, but usually less sturdy, less bulky, and less expensive.
  • No alteration to adjacent teeth

3. Bridge

  • A bridge is a fixed solution that stays cemented in the mouth and does not come out.
  • This method involves cutting down the teeth on either side of the missing tooth to be able to connect them together.
  • We recommend floss threaders, which slide under the bridge, to keep it clean.
  • The disadvantages for bridges are cutting down teeth that might be perfectly healthy, and sometimes bridges in the lower jaw do not last as long since the jaw flexes and the unbendable bridge can spring a leak on one side or the other that allows for decay or bacteria to seep in.
  • A bridge can replace one or two missing teeth easily, and sometimes more if there is enough support.

4. Dental Implant

  • A great way to replace a missing tooth.
  • This solution feels and acts the most like a natural tooth when chewing, brushing or smiling.
  • The implant replaces the actual root of the missing tooth and heals in the bone for several months.
  • We then place an abutment, to which a crown will be cemented.
  • 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

5. Do Nothing. There is always the option to do nothing.

  • When a tooth is removed, the bone melts away and the other teeth in the area will shift to fill the gap.
  • This can sometimes create a difficult place to clean and lead to other problems like bone loss or decay around the existing teeth.

Why Orthodontics is not just about a pretty smile

“Orthodontic treatment is used to correct a “bad bite,” a condition known as a malocclusion that involves teeth that are crowded or crooked. Correcting the problem can create a nice-looking smile, but more important, orthodontic treatment results in a healthier mouth. That’s because crooked and crowded teeth make cleaning the mouth difficult, which can lead to tooth decay, periodontal disease and possibly tooth loss.”

-colgate.com

Here is a great video about Orthodontics! from Spear Education

Britten Perio 5th Annual Veteran’s Day Event is Fast-Approaching

Dr. Todd M. Britten and the team at Britten Periodontics & Implant Dentistry is gearing up for their 5th annual Free Dental Day for Veterans. The event is scheduled for November 1, 2019.

“Veterans make the ultimate sacrifice for our country,” said Dr. Todd Britten. “Many of us ask ourselves, ‘What can we do?’, ‘How can we make a difference?’” Dr. Britten said that is exactly what he asked himself in 2015. “I am aware that dental coverage for veterans was very hard to attain, so we hit the ground running trying to deliver periodontal care to as many veterans as we could.”

The inaugural year of this event was 2014 for the the Clearwater, Florida based periodontal practice. Many others in the community have helped out each year since then. Dr. Britten stated, “Having local dentists involved 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 restorative specialists involved helps us to treat the whole mouth and really deliver comprehensive care to these veterans.”

Britten Periodontics and Implant Dentistry is currently doing initial exams on veterans to get them scheduled for treatment. “If you know of any veteran in serious need of dental care, please get in touch with their office right away, as these spaces are filling up quickly,” says Ellen Byrd, a dental hygienist in the practice who helps plan the event each year.

Britten Periodontics & Implant Dentistry is a periodontal practice offering patients personalized dental care in implant dentistry in Clearwater, Florida. Dr. Todd Britten offers sedation dentistry. For more information, visit https://brittenperio.com

Watch this great video from Spear Education about comprehensive dental exam

At Britten Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, we are committed to creating an experience that puts patients at ease while providing the highest quality of periodontal and implant dentistry available. Dr. Todd Britten specializes in periodontics, and has the experience needed to create strong, healthy smiles that exceed expectations. Along with his friendly, professional staff, Dr. Britten is committed to ensuring complete satisfaction with your oral health.

We are focused on providing patient­ centered care, and we take the time to explain to our patients the benefits, risks, 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. Please feel free to contact our Clearwater periodontal office today to schedule an appointment.

Providing quality periodontics to Clearwater, St.Petersburg and all surrounding Florida areas.

Here is a great video from Spear Education about comprehensive dental exam 🙂

https://spearedu.co/Y8oUEKx

How sinus augmentation procedures are making it possible for many patients to have dental implants

Dr. Britten, an implant specialist and periodontist in Clearwater, Florida, says that sinus augmentation procedures are making it possible for many patients to have dental implants when years ago there was no other option besides wearing loose dentures.

“The maxillary sinuses are behind your cheeks and on top of the upper teeth. Sinuses are like empty rooms. Some of the roots of the natural upper teeth extend up into the maxillary sinuses. When these upper teeth are removed, there is often just a thin wall of bone separating the maxillary sinus and the mouth,”Says Dr. Todd Britten.  He explained that dental implants need bone to hold them in place. “When the sinus wall is very thin, it is impossible to place dental implants in this bone.” For this situation, Dr. Britten says he would recommend a sinus augmentation graft to create a stable bone environment for implants to be placed.

A second procedure, known as an indirect sinus lift, is a less invasive than a direct or lateral sinus augmentation and is performed by preparing the bone for the dental implant as normal. “Once the floor of the sinus has been reached, bone is gently packed in the preparation and pressed upward. This motion will tent the membrane of the sinus upward and create additional room for the full length of the implant. Care will be taken not to damage the sinus and this procedure will have no effect on sinus pressure or affect people that suffer from seasonal allergies,” says Dr. Britten.

The sinus augmentation procedure must be allowed to heal completely prior to other procedures, such as the placement of dental implants. This will generally take about four to six months. Once the area has completely healed, the patient can be reevaluated for the placement of dental implants.

Dr. Todd Britten provides the latest technology and techniques in ridge augmentation, ridge preservation, sinus lift or sinus augmentation procedures in his Clearwater, Florida, periodontal practice.  He says these advancements mean this an exciting time for patients missing teeth to be able to have dental implants that may have been excluded before.

https://brittenperio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/45493616_126348965091238_8193340118414279443_n.mp4

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.

To learn more about Dr. Britten and his dental services, call us (727) 586-2681. For more information about sinus augmentation from the American Academy of Periodontics visit https://www.perio.org/consumer/sinus-augmentation.

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The Fully Edentulous Patient from Spear Educational Videos

Sometimes, due to severe gum disease or decay, a person may lose all of their teeth. This as known as the fully edentulous patient.

Options for the fully ehttps://spearedu.co/9qD8aLpdentulous patient are:

Full dentures:
Dentures are worn during the day. This is used to replace one or many missing teeth.

Disadvantages
– They move a little when speaking or eating, which can be uncomfortable.
-Must come out at night and be placed in a cleaning solution.

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 any teeth lost to fractures, decay or gum disease, contact us today at 727-586-2681.

Here is a great video from Spear Education

https://spearedu.co/oSAZNEa

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