Category: Business

Dr. Nicole Mitchell-Toth, a highly skilled, caring and dedicated dentist, has been practicing in the New Tampa area since 2006. She offers family, implant and cosmetic dentistry, with an extensive array of dental services — and has the experience and background to match. 

Dr. Mitchell (which is what she says her staff and patients call her, despite her recent married name) graduated from the University of South Florida in Tampa, where she received her Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Chemistry. She earned her Doctor of Medical Dentistry (D.M.D.) degree from the University of Florida College of Dentistry in Gainesville. 

After graduation, Dr. Mitchell served in the United States Army, where she was stationed at Ft. Benning, GA, and completed her residency in AEGD (Advanced Education in General Dentistry), as well as the “Spear Curriculum” in advanced comprehensive dentistry. She earned the rank of Major before leaving the Army. 

Dr. Mitchell has received implant training from implant educators and has averaged about 100 hours of continuing education per year for the last 20 years. She also completed the Executive Practice Management Curriculum through the University of Florida. 

She opened her first private practice office 18 years ago in The Walk at Highwoods Preserve plaza before moving to her current location in the Pebble Creek Collection in New Tampa in 2020. 

Having moved just before the Covid-19 pandemic hit, Dr. Mitchell calls the move, “perfect timing. We were able to complete everything before building materials became scarce,” she says. “I was very fortunate to be a dentist in Florida, since the relatively lenient restrictions here allowed us to resume seeing patients after only six weeks,” which was a small amount of time compared to the six months some states shut down their dental offices. 

Using AI Technology 

During the pandemic, Dr. Mitchell says she was introduced to new technologies that continue to benefit her patients, including both hardware and software that utilize Artificial Intelligence (AI). For example, she has a device that attaches to a smartphone camera, enabling patients to take and then transmit pictures of their teeth to the office for evaluation, eliminating the need for some (but not all) in-person visits. 

“It’s not just what we see but also what the AI technology analyzes.” Dr. Mitchell explains. 

In the office, she adds, AI technology enhances dental care by identifying problem areas in photos and X-rays. “The AI can detect early signs of cavities, allowing me to prescribe medication before they become serious,” she says. This tech also allows her to create 3D models of a patient’s teeth, which can reveal changes over time, such as gum recession or wear and tear. 

“We can use these images overlaid to show the patient how and why things have changed and what they can do to improve.” 

For more than a year, Dr. Mitchell also has been using AI software to analyze X-rays. 

“The software highlights problem areas in different colors (see photo left), making it easier to explain to patients what they need,” she says. “This visual aid helps patients understand their dental health and the necessary treatments.” 

Dr. Mitchell’s approach to dentistry is grounded in honesty and openness. She ensures that each patient is fully informed about treatment options and costs, empowering them to make the best decisions for their dental health. 

She also emphasizes the importance of education in maintaining oral health. New patients fill out detailed questionnaires about diet and lifestyle to identify potential causes of dental issues. 

“You may not realize it, but what you eat or drink can affect your teeth,” she says. 

The Blue Water Dental team includes three dental hygienists, four dental assistants, three administrative staff members and therapy dogs Max and Mandi. 

“In January of 2016,” says Dr. Mitchell, “we welcomed to the office these two nine-week-old Maltese-Shih Tzu mix pups, who we named after the Maxillary and Mandibular jaws. These therapy dogs were trained for the purpose of providing comfort and kindness to our patients.” 

The hypoallergenic pups enjoy roaming the office, “but mostly they enjoy sitting on the laps of patients and getting a good belly rub” says Dr. Mitchell, who adds that most patients find Max and Mandy to be very calming and comforting. 

Implant & Cosmetic Services 

In addition to general/family dentistry, Dr. Mitchell specializes in cosmetic dentistry and dental implants. 

“Creating new smiles is a favorite part of my job,” she says. Her practice offers a number of cosmetic procedures, including veneers, crowns and teeth whitening. She provides comprehensive assessments and multiple treatment options, ensuring that patients can choose the best solutions for their individual needs. 

When it comes to implants, Dr. Mitchell handles everything from individual teeth to complete replacements. 

“Replacing teeth can significantly improve a person’s appearance and confidence,” she says. “Depending upon what the patient wants or needs, the implant process can take from four months to a year.” 

Cosmetic services include single-visit permanent crowns, customized cosmetic veneers, specialty orthodontic care with virtual checkups, dental implants and same-day emergency appointments. 

Giving back to the community also is important to Dr. Mitchell. She volunteers with Missions Smiles, a program of the 501(c)(3) nonprofit Mission Tampa that provides dental care via a mobile unit to underserved areas. 

“We offer care once or twice a month, and sometimes we see patients in the office as well,” she says. “This program also assists survivors of human trafficking.” 

Another volunteer effort is with “Operation Stand Down,” presented by the Chapters Health Valor Program of HPH Hospice in Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas counties. This annual event provides comprehensive services to veterans, “many of whom are homeless and haven’t had dental care in years,” Dr. Mitchell explains. The event offers a range of services and accommodations, creating a supportive environment for these veterans in need. 

Dr. Mitchell has built long-term relationships with her patients, some of whom she has cared for since they were school aged and are now married with children. She takes pride in building these relationships and doing her absolute best to cater to every patient’s needs 

For more info about Blue Water Dental, the Family, Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry office of Dr. Nicole Mitchell-Toth (19651 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., Suite A-1), call (813) 957-5887 or visit NicoleMitchellDMD.com to request an appointment. The office is open Mon.- Thur., 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m., and 8 a.m.-1 p.m. on Fri.