Dental Care for Older Adults

Contrary to what most people believe, as we get older dental care becomes even more important. Older adults might notice that cavities become more frequent and severe, as the decrease in dexterity due to arthritis might make it difficult to maintain their oral hygiene. In addition, seniors often take many medications that cause side effects such as dry mouth. Dry mouth can cause difficulties for denture wearers, is often uncomfortable, and most seriously, leads to an increase in cavities and gum disease. We are here to help! Dr. Grunberger is skilled with senior care, and understands the unique challenges that older adults face. Her knowledge of routine prescription medications allows her to tailor her dental care plan to be sure to alleviate any suffering you’ve experienced due to dry mouth. In addition, visiting us regularly can help identify any early signs of oral cancer that are frequently missed in older adults. The American Cancer Society reports that half of oral cancer patients are 65 years of age or older. It is important that you maintain a relationship with us and come to see us regularly so that we can identify and treat early signs of dry mouth, cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer before they grow into bigger issues.

Dentures

If you have been noticing your dentures slipping, wandering or food getting trapped underneath, ask about implant-supported dentures or “overdentures”. These types of dentures provide the ideal support and fit, so that you can speak, chew and smile comfortably without worrying about sloppy adhesives.

Bridges and Partials

A bridge or removable partial denture usually consists of replacement teeth attached to a pink or gum-colored plastic base, which is connected by framework that holds the denture in place in the mouth. A fixed bridge replaces one or more teeth by placing crowns on the teeth on either side of the space and attaching artificial teeth to them. This “bridge” is then cemented into place. In contrast, a removable partial denture is usually recommended when there are not enough teeth available to do a bridge. When only a few natural teeth remain in the lower or upper jaw, it is important to fill in those gaps to prevent the remaining teeth from changing position in the jaw. When teeth begin to drift in your mouth, your bite can change and jaw joint (TMJ or temporomandibular joint) problems can then occur. Partials are worn successfully by many of our patients and they are very often the best treatment for multiple missing teeth. If you have one or more missing teeth, please don’t hesitate to call us so we can sit down together and explain the best treatment for you to keep your mouth in great shape!

Comfort Beyond Compare

We all like to joke about how much we hate to visit the dentist, but fear is a very real thing holding many people back from seeing the dentist.  Many people suffer from dental anxiety, but we are here to alleviate any discomfort or fear you may have visiting us!  Read below to find out more about the services we offer in our office to make your visit more comfortable.

Nitrous Oxide (laughing gas)

Nitrous oxide is a safe sedative that is mixed with oxygen and breathed through a small mask that fits over your nose.  It is a very effective remedy for anxiety and its effects can be felt within minutes.  It allows you to feel calm and comfortable throughout your dental procedure and the effects wear off shortly after removing the mask.  It is safe to drive home or return back to work after having nitrous oxide.

Fresh Cloths

We offer cleansing cloths scented with essential oils to clean up with and feel refreshed after your procedure.

Warm Blankets

If you’re feeling cold while sitting in the chair, we have warm cozy blankets available to help you feel relaxed and comfortable.

Noise-Cancelling Headphones

We offer noise-cancelling headphones for patients that want total distraction during their dental visit.  You can choose to listen to your own device, or we have devices pre-downloaded with soothing music you can enjoy during your visit.

Lavender eye pillows

These are wonderful for blocking out bright light while the scent of lavender will keep you naturally relaxed and calm during your procedure.  We are even happy to warm them up for you to enhance the effects of the lavender.

Beverages and Snacks

We offer chilled water, coffee and tea in the waiting room, and have a selection of yummy chocolate and sugar free candy at the checkout counter.  We want you to feel at home in our office!