Dr. Andrew Bertnolli, DDS is a General Dentist practicing at his clinic in Fort Lauderdale, FL, dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive dental care for older adults. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). Dr. Bertnolli understands the unique dental needs of individuals 65 years and older, recognizing that general dentists play a vital role in the overall health of this population. This includes providing comprehensive oral care, managing age-related dental issues like dry mouth and gum disease, and collaborating with other healthcare providers to ensure optimal oral and overall well-being. He is committed to creating a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions.
Dr. Andrew Bertnolli, DDS is a dentistry practitioner in Fort Lauderdale, FL, dedicated to providing exceptional care for seniors. He emphasizes a collaborative, evidence-based approach to medicine, recognizing the interconnectedness of oral and overall health. His practice prioritizes the specific needs of older adults, addressing the potential challenges and opportunities for maintaining optimal oral health in this demographic. Prospective patients should call (954) 771-7100 to confirm if Dr. Bertnolli is currently accepting new patients. Dr. Bertnolli provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-provider partnership. Dr. Andrew Bertnolli is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Bertnolli is a dedicated partner in your senior's health journey, providing compassionate and comprehensive dental care. He understands the unique oral health needs of older adults, addressing issues like dry mouth and gum disease while collaborating with other healthcare providers to ensure optimal overall well-being. His focus on a person-centered approach ensures that each patient's specific goals and concerns are prioritized, fostering a supportive and reassuring environment.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Andrew Bertnolli can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
DenteMax
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Advantage Plus 20 DHMO
- Alliance EPO
- Ameritas
- Ameritas PPO
- Anthem
- Cigna
- Delta Dental
- Delta Dental PPO
- Delta Dental Premier
- Dental Choice DPPO
- Dental Complete DPPO
- Dental Prime DPPO
- DentalConnect PPO
- DentalGuard Preferred
- Dominion National
- Elite Plus DPPO
- Guardian
- Humana
- Humana PPO
- Lincoln Financial Group
- Total Dental Administrators PPO
- Total Dental Administrators PPO PPO
- Total Dental DPPO
- United Concordia Dental
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Andrew Bertnolli provides expert, compassionate care for a range of conditions common in older adults, with a focus on managing symptoms and maintaining function. Common areas of focus include:
- Sleep Apnea: A dentist plays a key role in managing sleep apnea because oral appliances, crafted to fit your mouth, can often prevent airway blockage during sleep, restoring more restful nights.
- Oral Cancer: Oral cancer is a serious but treatable disease affecting the mouth, lips, and throat, and early detection through regular dental checkups significantly improves treatment outcomes and quality of life.
- Tooth Discoloration: Discolored teeth might be concerning, but many effective treatments are available. Your dentist can determine the source of the discoloration and recommend a personalized plan to restore the appearance of your teeth and improve your self-esteem.
- TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) Dysfunction: TMJ dysfunction can make chewing and talking painful, but your dentist can create a treatment plan including things like exercises, splints, or other therapies that can help reduce discomfort and maintain your independence.
- Tongue-Tie: If you have difficulty with chewing, swallowing, or speaking clearly due to limited tongue movement, you might have tongue-tie; a simple procedure can often improve these issues.
- Cleft Lip: Although a cleft lip is typically addressed early in life, ongoing dental care is important for those with this condition to maintain oral health and prevent complications as they age.
- Periodontitis: Gum disease (periodontitis) can cause loose teeth and even tooth loss, affecting your ability to eat and smile confidently, however, early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent these problems.
This list highlights some common health concerns and is for informational purposes. An accurate diagnosis and a personalized care plan can only be developed through a direct consultation with a qualified medical professional based on your specific health history.
To provide comprehensive and person-centered care, Dr. Andrew Bertnolli offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Dental Crown: Dental crowns are a key restorative treatment used to manage severely damaged or decayed teeth, improving both your oral health and overall well-being.
- Dental Veneer: Veneers offer a long-lasting solution for improving the shape and color of your teeth, maintaining a healthy and attractive smile throughout your senior years.
- Panorex X-Ray: A Panorex X-ray provides a wide view of your entire mouth, helping your dentist assess the overall health of your teeth and jawbone, essential for creating a personalized care plan.
- Dental Inlays: A dental inlay is a strong, tooth-colored restoration that helps your dentist manage moderate tooth decay and maintain a beautiful smile.
- Endodontic Surgery: To avoid tooth extraction, endodontic surgery is a specialized treatment that addresses infections deep within the tooth's root, maintaining a healthy smile and preventing future complications.
- Implant-Supported Crown: For seniors facing tooth loss, an implant-supported crown helps maintain facial structure, prevents jawbone deterioration, and improves confidence.
- Oral Sedation: This medication helps seniors undergo dental procedures more easily, improving their ability to receive the necessary care for better oral health.
Service availability can change. To understand which services are appropriate for your specific health needs, please schedule a consultation to develop a personalized care plan.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for General Dentists in Florida.
Dr. Andrew Bertnolli is dedicated to partnering with older adults and their families to achieve their unique health objectives. The following examples illustrate how compassionate care can make a tangible difference in a patient's life:
- After struggling with restless nights and daytime fatigue, a senior couple found relief through customized oral appliances. They were thrilled to reclaim their evening walks and enjoy more restful sleep together.
- After undergoing treatment for oral cancer, a senior felt confident resuming her cherished hobby of singing in the community choir, a significant improvement in her overall well-being.
- A senior woman, previously self-conscious about her teeth, regained her confidence and enjoyed smiling freely again after professional treatment for discoloration. Her improved smile significantly boosted her self-esteem and allowed her to confidently participate in social activities.
These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results vary and depend on many factors specific to each person. He will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.
- Primary Location:
Practice
3801 E Highway 98 Ste 100100, Port St. Joe, FL, 32456
Phone: (850) 229-5752
View on Map
- HCA Florida St. Lucie Hospital Port St. Lucie (Residency Hospital)
Here are answers to some common questions about Dental care with Dr. Andrew Bertnolli:
- How is dental health connected to my overall health, like my heart?
- Dr. Bertnolli's practice emphasizes the critical link between oral and overall health. Bacteria from chronic gum disease can enter the bloodstream, potentially increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and poorly controlled diabetes. Regular dental care is essential for maintaining not only healthy teeth and gums but also your overall health and wellness.
- My medications make my mouth constantly dry. Is this a dental problem?
- Yes, dry mouth (xerostomia) is a very common side effect of many medications, and it is a dental problem. Saliva is the body's natural defense against cavities, so dry mouth significantly increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Dr. Bertnolli can recommend special rinses, gels, and other strategies to manage dry mouth and protect your teeth.
- What is the difference between a bridge and a partial denture?
- A dental bridge is a fixed, permanent appliance cemented to your teeth, while a partial denture is a removable appliance that clips onto your existing teeth.
- What is the difference between a crown and a filling?
- A filling is like a patch to repair a small area of damage, while a crown is like a cap or helmet that covers the entire tooth. Crowns are used when a tooth is more significantly damaged, cracked, or has had a root canal, providing extra strength and protection.
- Is it normal for my gums to bleed when I brush or floss?
- No, healthy gums should not bleed. Bleeding when brushing or flossing is usually the first sign of gum inflammation, which can progress to periodontitis. Dr. Bertnolli can help create a gentle home care routine and perform a professional cleaning to reverse this.
- What is involved in an oral cancer screening?
- An oral cancer screening is a quick, painless, but vital part of every routine dental exam. Dr. Bertnolli will visually inspect your mouth and throat for any unusual sores or discolorations and gently feel your jaw and neck for lumps. Early detection is key to successful treatment.
- How should I be cleaning my dentures properly?
- To clean your dentures properly, remove and rinse them after eating. Use a soft denture brush and non-abrasive denture cleaner to clean all surfaces daily. Also, gently brush your gums, tongue, and roof of your mouth, and soak your dentures overnight in a denture solution or water.
- Why are my teeth becoming more sensitive as I get older?
- Tooth sensitivity in older adults is often due to receding gums, exposing the tooth root. Years of brushing can also wear down enamel, making teeth more vulnerable. Dr. Bertnolli can recommend desensitizing toothpastes, fluoride treatments, or check for other issues like cavities or cracked teeth.
1507 E Commercial Blvd
Fort Lauderdale FL 33334
Phone: (954) 771-7100
Dr. Andrew Bertnolli, DDS is regulated by the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice) in Florida and is licensed by The Florida Board of Medicine.
National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1073604393
Registration can typically be verified through The Florida Board of Medicine website or by direct inquiry.
The information on this profile, provided by infoaging.org, is for general informational purposes and to help you connect with healthcare partners for yourself or a loved one. It does not constitute direct medical advice from the provider named. General Dentists like Dr. Andrew Bertnolli are skilled in helping seniors and their families navigate their health journey. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. Always consult with a qualified medical professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your care plan.