Dr. Bruce Knecht, DMD is a General Dentist practicing at Coconut Creek Winning Smiles in Coconut Creek, FL. He is deeply committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive dental care specifically for older adults, 65 years and older, and is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine, practicing under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). General dentists play a vital role in the overall health of older adults, 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. Dr. Knecht's dedication to this population is evident in his commitment to advanced training through continuing education opportunities, including his status as a Diplomate for the American Board of Oral Implantology. His mission is to restore smiles through general dentistry techniques or implant surgical procedures, reflecting his belief that "Your teeth are a big part of your face." He is currently welcoming new patients and invites you to call (754) 255-6327 to schedule an appointment. Dr. Knecht's practice is primarily in English. He enjoys water activities and has four children, Lindsey, Chelsea, Greg, and Doug, with his wife Wendy. He holds numerous professional memberships including the American Board of Oral Implantology, the Academy of General Dentistry, the International College of Dentistry, and the American Association of Implantology, among others.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-provider partnership. Dr. Bruce Knecht is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Knecht is a compassionate and dedicated partner in your senior's health journey, providing comprehensive dental care tailored to the unique needs of older adults. He expertly manages age-related dental issues, such as dry mouth and gum disease, while collaborating closely with other healthcare providers to ensure optimal oral and overall well-being. His patient-centered approach focuses on understanding individual needs and goals, fostering a supportive environment that promotes comfort and independence.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Bruce Knecht can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Ameritas
- Ameritas PPO
- Delta Dental
- Delta Dental PPO
- Delta Dental Premier
- Delta Dental of Washington
- Dental
- Dental PPO
- DentalGuard Preferred
- Guardian
- Humana
- Humana PPO
- MetLife
- MetLife PDP
- Principal Financial Group
- UnitedHealthCare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Bruce Knecht 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:
- Clicking of Temporomandibular Joint: That clicking sound when you open or close your mouth might indicate a problem with your temporomandibular joint (TMJ), a condition easily addressed by your dentist through personalized treatment plans to minimize discomfort and maintain your independence.
- Loose Teeth: Experiencing loose teeth is common as we age, but with proper dental care, including potential stabilization or replacement, you can continue enjoying your favorite foods and maintaining a healthy smile.
- Chipped Tooth: A small chip in your tooth might seem minor, but addressing it promptly helps prevent infection, discomfort, and potential problems down the line, ensuring you maintain your independence.
- Dental Disorders: Maintaining good oral health is crucial for seniors as it significantly affects overall well-being, and addressing dental disorders can improve your diet, confidence, and overall quality of life.
- Tender Gums: Tenderness in your gums might indicate an underlying issue that can impact your oral health and overall well-being; your dentist can address the issue and improve your comfort.
- Tooth Damage: Addressing tooth damage promptly helps maintain your overall oral health, reducing the risk of infections and improving your confidence in smiling and speaking.
- Tooth Discoloration: As we age, teeth can naturally darken; however, discoloration can also be a sign of other issues. Your dentist can help determine the cause and recommend the best treatment option for a healthier, more aesthetically pleasing smile.
- Tooth Abscess: Experiencing intense pain, swelling, and sensitivity in your tooth? It may be an abscess. Your dentist can provide effective treatment to alleviate your discomfort and prevent complications.
- Canker Sore: A canker sore is a small, painful ulcer inside your mouth that usually heals on its own within a week or two, and your dentist can suggest ways to manage the discomfort.
- Gingivitis: Inflamed and irritated gums, known as gingivitis, can be addressed through better oral care habits and professional cleaning by your dentist to keep your mouth healthy and comfortable.
- Toothache: A toothache can significantly impact your quality of life, affecting your ability to enjoy meals and even sleep. Your dentist is the best resource for diagnosing and treating the underlying cause, helping you regain comfort and confidence.
- Gum Disease: Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums that can damage the soft tissues and bones supporting your teeth, but with regular dental checkups and good oral hygiene, it can often be managed effectively.
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. Bruce Knecht offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Amalgam Dental Fillings: During a routine check-up, your dentist might recommend amalgam fillings to address tooth decay, ensuring your teeth remain strong and functional.
- Dental Cleaning: Preventative dental cleanings help maintain a healthy mouth, enabling you to enjoy eating and smiling comfortably, enhancing your quality of life.
- 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 Hygiene Services: Dental hygiene services are essential for preventing gum disease and tooth decay, helping seniors maintain healthy smiles and overall well-being.
- Dental Implant: To address missing teeth and enhance your quality of life, dental implants provide a secure, natural-looking replacement that improves your ability to eat and smile with confidence.
- Root Canal: As part of your ongoing dental health, a root canal can address severe toothaches and restore a tooth's function, helping you eat, speak, and smile comfortably.
- Teeth Extraction: Sometimes, removing a tooth is a crucial step in preparing for the placement of dentures, bridges, or dental implants, ensuring a successful outcome for tooth replacement.
- Teeth Whitening: While not always medically necessary, teeth whitening can be a valuable cosmetic procedure to enhance your self-esteem and overall oral health strategy.
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. Bruce Knecht 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:
- A senior citizen found significant relief from the clicking in their jaw, allowing them to enjoy their favorite hobby of knitting without the distracting discomfort. This personalized treatment plan from a general dentist restored their ability to comfortably participate in daily activities.
- Grandma enjoyed a renewed sense of confidence and comfort, confidently eating her favorite meals again after loose teeth were stabilized by a dental professional. Her family was relieved to see her smile and overall well-being improve.
- A senior citizen, experiencing discomfort from a chipped tooth, found relief and improved confidence in chewing their favorite foods after professional treatment. They were able to enjoy meals with their family again without pain or worry.
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. Bruce Knecht:
- How is dental health connected to my overall health, like my heart?
- The health of your mouth is directly connected to your overall health, including your heart. Bacteria from chronic gum disease can enter the bloodstream and have been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes complications. Regular dental care is essential for maintaining not only healthy teeth and gums, but also your overall well-being.
- 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. Saliva is the body's natural defense against cavities, so dry mouth significantly increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Dr. Knecht can recommend special rinses, gels, and other strategies to manage dry mouth and protect your teeth.
- How should I be cleaning my dentures properly?
- To keep your dentures clean and healthy, remove and rinse them after eating. Use a soft denture brush and non-abrasive denture cleaner daily, cleaning all surfaces. Also, gently brush your gums, tongue, and roof of your mouth, and soak your dentures overnight in 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 the enamel. Dr. Knecht can recommend desensitizing toothpastes, fluoride treatments, or check for other potential causes like cavities or cracked teeth.
- Are dental implants a safe and good option for older adults?
- Dental implants are often an excellent solution for older adults with sufficient jawbone health. They're a secure, long-term way to replace missing teeth, anchoring a crown, bridge, or full denture and preventing slipping. This is a great investment in restoring chewing ability and confidence.
- Is it normal for my gums to bleed when I brush or floss?
- No, healthy gums should not bleed. Bleeding is often the first sign of gum inflammation, which can progress to more serious gum disease. This is often reversible with a professional cleaning and improved daily oral hygiene, and Dr. Knecht can help create an effective and gentle home care routine.
- What is involved in an oral cancer screening?
- Dr. Knecht performs a quick, painless oral cancer screening during every routine exam. He visually inspects the lips, cheeks, gums, tongue, and throat for unusual sores or discolorations, and gently feels the jaw and neck for lumps. Early detection is crucial for successful treatment.
- My dentures don't fit as well as they used to. What can be done?
- Over time, jawbone and gum changes can cause dentures to loosen. A relining procedure can reshape the denture for a better fit, or a new denture may be necessary if the current one is significantly worn. A proper fit is essential for comfortable eating and speaking.
Coconut Creek Winning Smiles
6532 N US Highway 441
Coconut Creek FL 33073
Phone: (754) 255-6327
Dr. Bruce Knecht, DMD 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): 1184745812
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. Bruce Knecht 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.