Dr. Elena Gutu, DMD is a General Dentist dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive dental care for older adults at her clinic in Saint Petersburg, FL. Registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), she understands the unique oral health needs of individuals 65 years and older. She recognizes that 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. Elena Gutu, DMD is committed to creating a supportive environment where patients and their families feel empowered in their healthcare decisions.
Dr. Elena Gutu, DMD, a dentistry practitioner in Saint Petersburg, FL, is deeply invested in the well-being of her senior patients. She approaches care with a collaborative, evidence-based methodology, ensuring that each patient receives personalized attention and tailored treatment plans. Understanding that oral health directly impacts overall health, Dr. Gutu strives to address the specific needs of this demographic. She is dedicated to fostering a trusting relationship with her patients, ensuring that they feel comfortable discussing their concerns and actively participating in their care. Prospective patients should call (727) 954-4431 to confirm if she is currently accepting new patients. Dr. Elena Gutu offers consultations in Russian.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-provider partnership. Dr. Elena Gutu is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Elena Gutu partners with seniors to navigate their unique health journeys, offering compassionate and comprehensive dental care. She meticulously addresses age-related oral concerns, like dry mouth and gum disease, while collaborating with other healthcare professionals to ensure the well-being of her patients extends beyond their smiles. Dr. Gutu's approach prioritizes a holistic understanding of each individual's needs, creating a supportive environment for optimal oral and overall health.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Elena Gutu can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Sun Life Financial
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Aetna
- Ameritas
- Ameritas PPO
- Anthem
- BlueDental Choice & Choice Plus DPPO
- Cigna
- Connection Dental
- Connection Dental PPO
- Delta Dental
- Delta Dental PPO
- Delta Dental Premier
- Dental
- Dental Advantage DPPO
- Dental Choice DPPO
- Dental Complete DPPO
- Dental DPPO
- Dental PPO
- Dental Prime DPPO
- DentalConnect PPO
- DentalGuard Preferred
- Dominion National
- Elite Plus DPPO
- Florida Blue
- Guardian
- Humana
- Humana PPO
- Lincoln Financial Group
- MetLife
- PDP Plus (Preferred Dentist Program) DPPO
- Principal Financial Group
- SimplyBlue
- Total Dental Administrators PPO
- Total Dental Administrators PPO PPO
- Total Dental DPPO
- United Concordia Dental
- UnitedHealthCare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Elena Gutu 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:
- Hypodontia: Hypodontia is a condition where some teeth are missing at birth, and your dentist can help plan for ways to replace them, improving your smile and ability to eat comfortably.
- Oral Infection: Oral infections, such as gum disease or an infected tooth, can impact your ability to eat comfortably and enjoy your meals, but prompt dental care can help resolve the issue.
- Dental Trauma: Accidents happen, and a fall or bump can cause dental trauma. Thankfully, your dentist has the expertise to repair or replace damaged teeth, improving your smile and confidence.
- Halitosis (Bad Breath): Don't let bad breath affect your self-esteem; it's often treatable, and a visit to the dentist can help determine the cause and recommend appropriate solutions.
- Dislocated Jaw: A dislocated jaw, or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dislocation, occurs when the jawbone slips out of its socket, causing pain and difficulty opening and closing your mouth, which a dentist can help manage.
- Burning Mouth Syndrome: If you experience a constant burning feeling in your mouth, it could be burning mouth syndrome, a condition your dentist can assess and help you find ways to cope with.
- Periodontitis: While gum disease (periodontitis) may seem daunting, it's manageable with regular dental visits and a dedicated oral hygiene routine, allowing you to preserve your smile and overall well-being as you age.
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. Elena Gutu offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Nitrous Oxide Administration: Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, can help seniors feel relaxed and comfortable during dental procedures, making their experience more pleasant and less stressful.
- Dental Restoration: Dental restoration procedures like fillings or crowns are essential for managing tooth decay and protecting your teeth from further harm.
- Frenectomy: For seniors experiencing difficulty with speech or eating due to a tight frenulum, a frenectomy can provide relief and improve their quality of life.
- Limited Gum Surgery: This targeted surgical approach helps diagnose and treat gum problems, ensuring your mouth is healthy and comfortable.
- Laser Treatment for Dental Fillings: Laser treatment may offer a more comfortable and precise way to place fillings, improving the longevity of the restoration for older adults.
- Removable Partial Dentures (RPD): During a dental assessment, removable partial dentures may be recommended to replace missing teeth, prevent jawbone deterioration, and maintain facial structure for seniors.
- Dental Hygiene Services: Regular dental hygiene appointments help detect oral health problems early, allowing for timely intervention and improving the overall success of your senior care plan.
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. Elena Gutu 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:
- Having struggled with missing teeth for years, a senior was thrilled to find a dentist who helped design a plan to replace them, restoring their ability to enjoy their favorite foods and improving their confidence.
- A senior citizen, experiencing discomfort from a persistent oral infection, found relief and a renewed ability to savor meals with their family after receiving professional dental care. The patient's quality of life significantly improved, allowing them to enjoy their favorite foods without pain.
- After a fall, a senior felt anxious about eating and smiling. With expertly crafted dental repairs, the patient regained their confidence and resumed enjoying their favorite meals with family.
These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results vary and depend on many factors specific to each person. She 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. Elena Gutu:
- How is dental health connected to my overall health, like my heart?
- Your oral health is critically linked to your overall health, including your heart. Bacteria from chronic gum disease can enter your bloodstream, potentially increasing your risk for heart disease, stroke, and poorly controlled diabetes. 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, and it's a dental problem. Saliva is your body's natural defense against cavities, so dry mouth significantly increases your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Dr. Gutu 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 replacement for missing teeth, cemented to the surrounding teeth. A partial denture is a removable appliance that clips onto existing teeth to fill in the gaps.
- 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 (gingivitis), which can progress to periodontitis if left untreated. This is often reversible with a professional cleaning and improved daily oral hygiene, and Dr. Gutu can help create an effective and gentle home care routine.
- What is the difference between a crown and a filling?
- A filling is like a patch to repair a small area of a damaged tooth. A crown is like a cap or helmet that covers the entire tooth, used when the tooth is more damaged, cracked, or has had a root canal, providing extra strength and protection.
- How should I be cleaning my dentures properly?
- To clean your dentures properly, remove and rinse them after each meal. Use a soft denture brush and a non-abrasive cleaner to clean all surfaces daily. Gently brush your gums, tongue, and roof of your mouth, and soak your dentures overnight in a denture solution or water.
- 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 are a secure, long-term way to replace missing teeth, anchoring a crown, bridge, or even a full denture and preventing slipping. This is a great investment in restoring chewing ability and confidence.
- My dentures don't fit as well as they used to. What can be done?
- Over time, the jawbone and gums change shape, which can loosen dentures. A relining procedure can reshape the underside of the denture for a better fit, or a new denture can be created if the current one is significantly worn. A proper fit is essential for comfortable eating and speaking.
5500 1st Ave N
Saint Petersburg FL 33710
Phone: (727) 954-4431
Dr. Elena Gutu, 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): 1023109493
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. Elena Gutu 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.