After earning his University of Florida degree and a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Medical College of Virginia, Dr. Howard Howell, DDS, returned to his Plant City roots. Noting the corner’s visibility, he established his orthodontic practice here in 1977 at Thonotosassa Road and Baker Street. When the “Tooth Caboose” was placed permanently on the site in the mid-1960s, little did Dr. Howell know it would once day become an iconic landmark in the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World. Today three highly regarded dental specialists provide the finest in family dentistry and orthodontic care here. 44
SEPTEMBER 2015 focusplantcity.com
Meet the Dentists
• Dr. Howell Howell, DDS—orthodontist who treats children, adults and those with Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMJ) • Dr. Gene Whitehead—board certified pediatric dentist; past president of the Southeastern Society of Pediatric Dentistry • Dr. Steve Slavkin—general dentist for children; served 10 years as the Dental Executive Director of the Children’s Dental Program for Duval County.
Stellar Staff
Invaluable to the practice are the four pediatric dental assistants and two office organizers, whose average length of employment length is18 years. Dr. Howell appreciates their “caring hearts and
passion for community work outside the office as well.” “They make my job easy,” credits Dr. Slavkin. “This exceptionally experienced staff thoroughly enjoys making patients feel relaxed and happy.” And Dr. Whitehead is thankful. “Because of our gracious patients and talented staff, we’re now treating the third generation of many families.”
Referrals
Also invaluable are patients’ opinions. For the past two years, Tooth Caboose has earned the Gold Standard award in both Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry from voters in The Courier’s annual reader poll.