Tuesday, July 26, 2016

Clearwater Florida Periodontist Dr. Todd Britten using New Green Technology in Practice

Clearwater Florida Periodontist Dr. Todd Britten using New Green Technology in Practice
In the past, traditional dental x-rays were only able to provide limited information about the condition of a patient's teeth and jaw bone. Advances in technology now allow Clearwater Florida Periodontist Dr. Britten to see fine detailed tooth and jaw anatomy to diagnose conditions that may have been previously hard to detect. Britten Periodontics & Implant Dentistry is now offering the only dental 3D CT Scan that is FDA approved for use on pediatric patients as it delivers the lowest dose of radiation possible on both children and adults. The VATECH PAX-i3D GREEN cone beam CT Scanner offers fantastic imaging detail and is the only cone beam system considered a “Green CT” due to its extremely low dose, equivalent to only a short time out in the sun. This technology also assists in the digital planning of dental implants for precise accuracy, safety and optimal results. It can also assist in planning for bone grafting, tooth extractions, particularly third molars (wisdom teeth) and suspected pathology such as infected cracked teeth or impacted teeth.

The Green CBCT scanner by VA Tech America provides innovative technology for ultra-low-dose x-rays in 5.9 seconds and minimizes radiation to both patient and operator.
“I am excited about not only the excellent image quality for diagnostic purposes, but also the increased protection for the health and safety of our patients. The VA Tech Cone Beam CT scanner is perfect for claustrophobic patients."

Periodontal and Implant Specialist Dr. Todd Britten recently began using the latest in Cone Beam CT technology, an open Green CBCT scanner, in his Clearwater office. He says the goal with this cutting-edge technology is obtaining a high quality 3-D image, using the lowest possible radiation dose. Dr. Britten states that this new technology allows him to not only take routine x-rays but also uses it for ConeBeam CT scan technology to take very accurate 3D images which typically require a higher dose of radiation.
The Green CBCT scanner by VA Tech America provides innovative technology for ultra-low-dose x-rays in 5.9 seconds and minimizes radiation to both patient and operator. Dr. Britten says the Green CBCT scanner protects both his patient and the x-ray technician while delivering a high quality 3-D imaging. “I am excited about not only the excellent image quality for diagnostic purposes, but also the increased protection for the health and safety of our patients. The VA Tech Cone Beam CT scanner is perfect for claustrophobic patients, as it is an ‘open air’ scanner. Patients are positioned and stand very still, and in less than six seconds, the scan is done.”
Dentists and dental specialists are using ConeBeam 3-D CT scans more and more frequently as a diagnostic tool for ultimate treatment efficiency and precision, particularly for dental implants, however, they can provide information for full mouth treatment when needed or localized to third molars or even the Temporomandibular Joint. New Green CBCT technology allows your dentist or x-ray technician to select specifically the desired scan while managing radiation dosage to their patients.
“This is a very powerful treatment tool in our practice,” says Dr. Britten. “With it, we can work together with our referring dentists to more confidently map our surgical and restorative treatment plans and place and restore implants with accuracy, while protecting our patients and our staff with lower radiation. I have read thousands of CT scans of the jaws but am still amazed at the fine details that I am now able to see in our VA Tech scans. We often see hairline cracks in people’s teeth that were previously unclear on traditional x-rays, yet causing them discomfort.”
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 visit his website at:http://www.clearwaterperiodontist.com or http://www.brittenperio.com or call (727) 586-2681.

Tuesday, July 19, 2016

Meet Dr. Todd Britten Clearwater Periodontist


                              Todd M. Britten, DMD, MS

*A little about me, as featured on our soon to be revealed renovated website www.brittenperio.com



Diplomate, American Board of Periodontology

As a periodontist, I enjoy making a positive impact on my patient’s lives by improving their smiles as well as their comfort and health. It is the reason I am thrilled to go to work every day! I have had patients that were once told they would lose all of their teeth, but through periodontal care, even after many years still have every one of them! Success stories like this make me grateful and very humbled to be part of this wonderful profession.

I believe in delivering state of the art care with a gentle touch in a lighthearted environment. I am extremely proud of my team of caring and dedicated professionals. They excel at welcoming even the most anxious of patients and setting them at ease, helping them become part of our dental family.


Education and Experience

Bachelor of Science – ​University of Florida
Doctorate of Dental Medicine – University of Florida
Master’s Degree and Certificate in Periodontology and Implant Dentistry – University of Florida
Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology



My team and I are continually updating our skills and knowledge of new procedures and technology so we can provide the highest quality, least invasive care available in our industry. I have completed extensive continuing education coursework, including training at the Pankey Institute, Pikos Institute for Advanced Bone Grafting, Misch International Implant Institute and LANAP Institute for advanced Laser Dentistry.




Family Life


I grew up in North Tampa and attended Jesuit High School before attending the University of Florida. I met my wife Meg there at a Gator football game, and we have been inseparable ever since. We welcomed our son Daniel in 2012, our daughter Lillie in 2014 and our newest addition, Everett in May of 2016. When I’m not at the office I love spending time with my family, playing golf, playing the guitar, traveling the world and cheering on the Bucs, Rays, Bolts and Gators.






Professional Associations and Memberships

American Board of Periodontology
American Academy of Periodontology
American Dental Association
Florida Association of Periodontists
Academy of Osseointegration
Upper Pinellas County Dental Association
Pinellas County Dental Association
Top Dentist 2015
Florida West Coast Dental Association










Clearwater FL Periodontist Shares: Our Technology: Digital Photography

DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY

Digital photography is an incredible tool Dr. Britten uses for educating our patients and communicating with our referring doctors and dental laboratories. We are able to document treatment results or areas of concern with before, during, and after photos in clear detail. Our patients are often amazed at what they see!

Before Surgery (gingival recession - severe)



After Surgical Therapy:  Gingival Grafting

Clearwater FL Periodontist Shares: Our Technology: Digital Xrays

DIGITAL X-­RAYS

Using the most advanced dental technology possible is just as important as staying up-­to­-date on the latest treatment techniques. Because our practice is dedicated to providing you with the safest and most convenient treatment options available, we utilize advanced digital X­-ray technology in our office.
Dental x-rays, or radiographs, are used to evaluate damage and disease not visible during a regular dental exam. If your referring dentist has any current radiographs of your teeth, we can ask them to forward them to our office .
With digital x-­rays, our computer sensor can capture the image with less radiation and the image instantly transmits to the computer screen. The amount of harmful radiation is greatly reduced compared to older traditional x­-rays. Our digital X­-ray software program allows us to enhance the images to better diagnose conditions – often before they become problems. The x-­rays are then displayed on a screen right in front of you and can be easily shared with your general dentist.

Clearwater Periodontist: Our Technology: Green CT Scan 3 D Imaging

GREEN CT SCAN ​3D IMAGING


In the past, traditional dental x-rays were only able to provide limited information about the condition of your teeth and jaw bone. Advances in technology now allow Dr. Britten to see fine detailed tooth and jaw anatomy to diagnose conditions that may have been previously hard to detect.

At Britten Periodontics & Implant Dentistry we are proud to offer the only dental 3D CT Scan that is FDA approved for use on pediatric patients as it delivers the lowest dose of radiation possible on both children and adults. The VATECH PAX-i3D GREEN cone beam CT Scanner offers fantastic imaging detail and is the only cone beam system considered a “Green CT” due to its extremely low dose, equivalent to only a short time out in the sun. This technology also assists in the digital planning of dental implants for precise accuracy, safety and optimal results. It can also assist in planning for bone grafting, tooth extractions, particularly third molars (wisdom teeth) and suspected pathology such as infected cracked teeth or impacted teeth.


Clearwater Periodontist Dr. Todd Britten: The Periodontal Exam

DO YOU RECALL HEARING NUMBERS – like 3, 2, 2, 4 – being said aloud during your dental cleanings or dental exams?

These numbers are your periodontal pocket depth measurements and they are very important in determining the condition of your gum health.

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 bacteria or gum disease is present. To monitor and evaluate gum health, the pocket depth is measured, recorded, and monitored over time.

In a healthy mouth, a pocket can be generally from 1-3 millimeters deep.

To measure a pocket, your dental hygienists or dentist uses a periodontal probe. The probe allows them to measure in millimeters from the top of the pocket to the bottom of the pocket. The bottom of the pocket is where the tissue is connected through ligaments to the root. This measurement is taken very gently and causes no damage to the gum tissue.

When a tooth has signs of gum disease, the tissue begins to detach. Under 3 mm deep a pocket is considered healthy, while 4mm or deeper is generally considered unhealthy. The bacteria and infection causing the detachment needs to be addressed.

At your next dental hygiene visit, make sure to find out any problem areas found during your periodontal exam and how to treat it.

It is important to catch gum disease as early as possible. Regular dental checkups are vital, as is an awareness of the warning signs of gum disease. If gingivitis progresses to periodontitis, serious problems including tooth loss can occur.

For more information, please contact our office at 727-586-2681 or visit our website atwww.brittenperio.com

Clearwater Periodontal Office Participated in May 2016 Red Nose Day

Clearwater FL Periodontist Dr. Todd Britten Campaigns to Raise Money and Awareness for Red Nose Day 2016!

Are you Red Nose Ready?

Britten Periodontics & Implant Dentistry
Campaigns to Raise Money and Awareness for Red Nose Day 2016!


Throughout the month of May, Britten Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, is campaigning to bring awareness about Red Nose Day and help raise funds for this extraordinary cause!


Red Nose Day is a philanthropic event that began 25 years ago to help children in poverty worldwide.  In the past 25 years the event has raised more than 1 billion globally.  Their slogan is, “Laugh. Give. Save a kid.” 

Dr. Todd M. Britten, a board certified periodontist in Clearwater, FL, has challenged his staff members to get #rednoseready by donating to this global event and then showing off their red nose as they share a little about each of themselves with the online community.  During the month of May each staff member has been featured on the practice’s Facebook page with a silly red nose and their biography, in hopes to engage the community and bring awareness to Red Nose Day 2016!  They are challenging the community to post pictures of themselves in their own red noses onto Britten Periodontics & Implant Dentistry’s Facebook page.  For every person who posts a picture with a red nose on their Facebook page, they will donate an additional $1 to the Red Nose Day cause!

Jennifer Daly, one of the surgical assistants at Britten Periodontics & Implant Dentistry expressed why this cause is so important to her, “Red Nose Day is important to me because as a mother, it breaks my heart knowing that there are still children in the world that can’t or don’t have food to eat.  These are things that I take for granted, but would love to see the end of childhood hunger.” 

Half of the money distributed by Red Nose Day 2016 will be spent right here in the U.S. The other half will be spent in some of the poorest communities in Latin America, Asia, and Africa. All money raised supports projects that ensure kids are safe, healthy, and educated.

Red Nose Day 2016 directly benefits these charity partners; Boys & Girls Club of America, Feeding America, Children’s Health Fund, National Urban League, Gavi The Vaccine Alliance, Oxfam America, The Global Fund, Save the Children, Covenant House and National Counsil of La Raza.

To find out more about how you can participate in Red Nose Day, visit...


Or to post a picture of you with your red nose on Britten Periodontics Facebook Page, please follow this link! https://www.facebook.com/ClearwaterPeriodontist/



Clearwater Periodontal Office Participated in 2016 Oral Cancer Foundation Save the Face Race

Clearwater FL Periodontist Participates in Oral Cancer Awareness Month

Dr. Todd Britten and his staff, along with many other professionals in Pinellas county, are using the month of April to focus on Oral Cancer Awareness. According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, "Close to 45,750 Americans will be diagnosed with oral or pharyngeal cancer this year. It will cause over 8,650 deaths, killing roughly 1 person per hour, 24 hours per day."

Dr. Todd Britten and his staff participated in the 3rd Annual Oral Cancer Foundation 5K Walk/Run for Awareness on April 9th in Hurley Park at St. Pete Beach. In addition to participating in the event, he and his staff helped event organizers prepare packets for race participants. “Your dentist, dental specialist and dental hygienist are your first line of defense for early detection of Oral Cancer,” Dr. Britten stated. “We check every patient for signs of Oral Cancer. It is most common in current or past tobacco users and those that use alcohol heavily, however it may occur in non-smokers and non-drinkers.”

Dental professionals routinely perform systematic examination of the soft tissues of the mouth, including the tongue, floor of the mouth, borders of the tongue, as well as the lymph nodes surrounding the oral cavity and in the neck. “It is important to me that my staff, as well as my patients know what we are doing and why, and what they may be able to look for at home. If you have any concerns about your oral health, come see us.” Britten’s periodontal practice is located in Clearwater, Florida. Dr. Britten stated he is using the month of April to review with his staff their Oral Cancer Screening protocol as well as distributing an Oral Cancer Screening handout to his patients.

The 3rd Annual Oral Cancer Foundation 5K Walk/Run for Awareness on April 9th featured free oral cancer screenings by local dental professionals as well as keynote speaker and internationally recognized storyteller Eva Grayzel. Grayzel was diagnosed at age 33 with stage IV oral cancer and given a 15% chance of survival. Grayzel also performed off-Broadway, in Tongue-Tied: A Story NOT Silenced by Oral Cancer and has written two children’s books, “Mr. C Plays Hide & Seek and Mr. C the Globetrotter.”

Dr. Britten states, “I am so grateful that we were able to participate in this important event with many other professionals in our community, as well as those touched personally by this devastating, and sometimes deadly disease.”

Todd Britten's periodontal office is located in Clearwater, Florida. For more information visit his website http://www.brittenperio.com or call 727-586-2681.

Clearwater Periodontist Dr. Todd Britten Recognized as Top Dentist Sept 2015

Dr. Britten was recognized by some of our peers as a top dentist in Tampa Bay through "USAtopDentists" (published in Tampa Bay Magazine) in September 2015. topDentists was started in 2007 with the intent to identify the best dentists and specialists in the country and is the only list of its kind, chosen by dental professionals themselves.

http://www.usatopdentists.com/find-dentist/dentist-details.asp?dentist=todd+m.+britten&specialty=periodontics&city=clearwater&state=florida