Dr. Elza Pereira, DMD is a General Dentist dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive dental care for older adults. She practices at her clinic in Sarasota, FL, and is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine, practicing under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). Dr. Pereira 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. She earned her medical degree from Temple Dental School, and is committed to collaborative, evidence-based medicine, creating a supportive environment for patients and their families.
Dr. Pereira's practice prioritizes the well-being of her senior patients. Her approach to care emphasizes listening to patient concerns and empowering them to make informed decisions about their oral health. She understands that dental care is an integral part of overall health, and she strives to build trusting relationships with her patients. Dr. Elza Pereira, DMD is a dentistry practitioner in Sarasota, FL. She is accepting new patients and can be reached at (941) 921-3121 to schedule an appointment. She also offers consultations in Spanish.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-provider partnership. Dr. Elza Pereira is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Elza Pereira is a compassionate partner in your senior's health journey, providing comprehensive dental care tailored to the unique needs of older adults. She expertly manages age-related dental issues, fostering collaboration with other healthcare providers to ensure optimal oral and overall well-being. Her approach prioritizes not only the teeth but also the overall health and comfort of her patients, recognizing the interconnectedness of oral health with their overall quality of life.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Elza Pereira can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Alliance EPO
- Elite Plus DPPO
- United Concordia Dental
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Elza Pereira 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:
- Cavity: A cavity is a small hole in a tooth due to decay; quick treatment with a filling or other restoration by your dentist will safeguard your oral health and help you maintain a comfortable, confident 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: Dental disorders can sometimes cause pain or discomfort, making it challenging to eat properly and affecting your nutrition; proactive dental care can alleviate these issues.
- Gingivitis: If you experience swollen or bleeding gums, it might be gingivitisa gum infection easily treated with professional cleaning and improved brushing, helping maintain a healthy smile for years to come.
- Gum Disease: Experiencing bleeding gums, red or swollen gums, or persistent bad breath could be signs of gum disease; seeking prompt professional care from your dentist allows for early intervention and preservation of your teeth.
- Misaligned Teeth: Slightly crooked teeth might not seem serious, but they can lead to increased wear and tear on your teeth and jaw, which can be addressed with dental solutions designed for seniors.
- 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.
- Tooth Decay: Tooth decay, or cavities, happens when bacteria in your mouth create acids that damage your tooth enamel, leading to holes in your teeth that can cause pain and discomfort, but regular dental checkups and treatments can prevent further damage and maintain your ability to enjoy your favorite foods.
- Tooth Demineralization: Demineralization is a process where teeth lose minerals, increasing the chance of decay; your dentist can identify this early and use treatments like fluoride to protect your teeth and maintain your ability to enjoy your favorite foods.
- Tooth Discoloration: Don't let stained or discolored teeth affect your confidence. Your dentist can identify the cause and recommend treatments like whitening or cosmetic bonding to improve the look of your smile, making you feel better about your appearance.
- Tooth Loss: While tooth loss is a natural part of aging for some, it's often preventable with good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, and there are many ways to replace missing teeth to maintain your independence.
- Toothache: That nagging toothache can make eating and sleeping difficult. Your dentist can diagnose the problem, such as a cracked tooth or abscess, and offer solutions to restore your oral health and overall well-being.
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. Elza Pereira offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Denture Repair: Denture repair helps restore the proper fit and function of your dentures, improving comfort and chewing ability.
- Root Planing: Root planing is an important step in creating a long-term dental care plan, addressing gum disease, a condition that can affect your overall health and well-being.
- Dental Crown: To protect a weakened tooth from further damage and prevent future dental problems, your dentist might recommend a dental crown as part of your comprehensive care plan.
- Lower Dentures: Regular check-ups and adjustments of your lower dentures are crucial for preventing discomfort and potential health issues.
- Dental Bridge: In your senior care journey, a dental bridge serves as a long-term solution, preventing further jawbone resorption and improving your ability to eat comfortably and enjoy life's flavors.
- Non-Surgical Gum Treatment: This treatment is a crucial part of your dental care plan, addressing gum inflammation and preventing further damage to teeth and gums.
- Simple Tooth Extractions: Simple tooth extractions help remove problematic teeth that may be causing pain, infection, or impacting the health of surrounding teeth, thus improving overall oral health.
- Ultrasonic Dental Cleaning: As part of your regular dental checkup, ultrasonic cleaning ensures your teeth and gums are thoroughly cleaned, contributing to a comprehensive plan for your overall health and well-being.
- Teeth Whitening: As part of your routine dental check-up, teeth whitening can improve the aesthetics of your teeth, complementing other preventative measures.
- Dental Bonding: Incorporating dental bonding into your care plan helps maintain the health and appearance of your teeth, boosting your self-esteem and oral function.
- Teeth Scaling: Teeth scaling helps remove plaque and tartar buildup, preventing gum disease and keeping your mouth healthy.
- Composite Fillings: During a routine checkup, your dentist may recommend composite fillings to address minor cavities and prevent the need for more extensive procedures later.
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. Elza Pereira 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:
- With a filling restoring a healthy tooth, a senior felt confident smiling again and enjoying her favorite crunchy snacks without pain.
- After a chipped tooth was promptly addressed, a senior couple rediscovered the joy of sharing meals together, no longer experiencing discomfort or worry about further damage.
- With improved dental health, a senior couple rediscovered the joy of sharing meals together, savoring the flavors of their favorite foods without pain or discomfort.
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. Elza Pereira:
- How is dental health connected to my overall health, like my heart?
- Dr. Pereira's practice emphasizes the critical link between oral and systemic 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 but also 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 can significantly increase your risk of tooth decay and gum disease because saliva is your body's natural defense. Dr. Pereira can recommend special rinses, gels, and other strategies to manage dry mouth and protect your teeth.
- My dentures don't fit as well as they used to. What can be done?
- Over time, changes in the jawbone and gums can cause dentures to loosen. Dr. Pereira can reline your dentures to create a better fit, or make a new set if needed. A proper fit is essential for comfortable eating and speaking.
- 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 to protect and strengthen it when the tooth is more damaged or has had a root canal.
- What is the difference between a bridge and a partial denture?
- A dental bridge is a fixed, permanent replacement for missing teeth, while a partial denture is a removable appliance that clips onto existing teeth. A bridge is cemented to the teeth on either side of the gap, while a partial denture is removed for cleaning.
- What is involved in an oral cancer screening?
- Dr. Pereira's oral cancer screenings are a quick, painless, yet vital part of every routine exam. She will visually inspect the inside of your mouth and throat for any unusual sores or discoloration, 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 keep your dentures clean, remove and rinse them after each meal. Use a soft denture brush and non-abrasive cleaner on all surfaces daily. Gently brush your gums, tongue, and roof of your mouth as well. Soak your dentures overnight in 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 provide 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.
7129 Curtiss Ave Ste 6
Sarasota FL 34231
Phone: (941) 921-3121
Dr. Elza Pereira, 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): 1740504794
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. Elza Pereira 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.