Dr. Erin Shiveler, DMD is a General Dentist dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive dental care for older adults at her clinic in Tallahassee, FL. She is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), ensuring her patients receive the highest quality and legally compliant care. As a partner in senior health, Dr. Shiveler 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.
Dr. Erin Shiveler, DMD is a dentistry practitioner in Tallahassee, FL. She is accepting new patients and is committed to developing a plan tailored to meet each patient's individual needs. Her conservative and preventative approach to dental care, combined with her expertise in the comprehensive medical care of individuals 65 years and older, ensures the best possible outcomes. She earned her medical degree from the University of Florida, College of Dentistry, and completed her residency training in General Dentistry at New York Methodist Hospital. Dr. Shiveler is passionate about taking the time to answer questions and ensuring a positive dental visit, and she prioritizes developing a strong patient-provider relationship. She provides consultations primarily in English. Please call (850) 425-1300 to schedule an appointment.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-provider partnership. Dr. Erin Shiveler is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Erin Shiveler is a compassionate partner in your senior's health journey, offering comprehensive dental care tailored to the unique needs of older adults. She recognizes the vital connection between oral health and overall well-being, addressing age-related issues like dry mouth and gum disease while collaborating with other healthcare providers to ensure a holistic approach to care. Her focus is on understanding each patient's individual needs and goals, creating a supportive and personalized plan that promotes comfort and independence.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Erin Shiveler can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Anthem
- BlueDental Choice & Choice Plus DPPO
- Cigna
- Dental
- Dental Complete DPPO
- DentalConnect PPO
- DentalGuard Preferred
- Florida Blue
- Guardian
- Lincoln Financial Group
- MetLife
- PDP Plus (Preferred Dentist Program) DPPO
- SimplyBlue
- Total Dental DPPO
- UnitedHealthCare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Erin Shiveler 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:
- Chipped Tooth: A chipped tooth, a common mishap, can be easily repaired by your dentist, restoring both your smile's appearance and your confidence in chewing comfortably.
- 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.
- 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 Loss: If you've lost teeth, don't worry your dentist can help you explore different replacement options like dentures or implants, helping to restore your ability to eat, speak, and smile comfortably.
- Toothache: A toothache, that persistent pain in your tooth, is often caused by decay, infection, or injury and can be relieved with a visit to your dentist who will provide the necessary treatment, improving your comfort and ability to eat.
- Salivary Duct Stones: Salivary duct stones are small, hard deposits that can form in the ducts that carry saliva from your salivary glands to your mouth, sometimes causing pain and swelling.
- Grinding of Teeth (Bruxism): The unconscious grinding of teeth (bruxism) is surprisingly common and treatable; a simple visit to your dentist can provide a diagnosis and a solution, like a night guard, improving sleep quality and preventing dental damage.
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. Erin Shiveler offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Dental Bonding: Dental bonding is a cosmetic procedure that repairs chipped or cracked teeth, improving your smile's appearance and confidence.
- Dental Bridge: A dental bridge is a valuable tool in the diagnosis and treatment of missing teeth; it improves speech, prevents jawbone deterioration, and enhances your overall confidence.
- Dental Crown: As part of your ongoing dental care, a crown can effectively restore a tooth's function and prevent the need for more extensive procedures later on.
- Porcelain Veneers: Veneers are a customized cosmetic treatment option that can enhance your smile by improving the shape, size, and color of your teeth, improving your self-esteem and complementing your overall oral health plan.
- Restoration of Dental Implants: Restoration of dental implants helps preserve your smile and confidence, allowing you to enjoy eating and social interactions without discomfort.
- 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.
- Teeth Whitening: Teeth whitening can brighten your smile and boost your confidence, enhancing your overall well-being as part of a comprehensive dental 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. Erin Shiveler 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 woman, previously hesitant to eat crunchy foods, was thrilled to regain her enjoyment of apples and other favorites after a chipped tooth was expertly repaired. Her renewed confidence in chewing comfortably brought back a sense of joy and independence.
- After addressing their gum disease, a senior couple rediscovered the joy of sharing meals together, savoring each bite without the discomfort of persistent bad breath.
- After consistent dental care, a senior woman was able to enjoy crunchy vegetables and her favorite fruits again without pain, improving her overall diet and well-being.
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. Erin Shiveler:
- How is dental health connected to my overall health, like my heart?
- Maintaining healthy teeth and gums is crucial for 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 vital for preventing these systemic health problems.
- 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 the body's natural defense against cavities, so dry mouth significantly increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Dr. Shiveler can recommend special rinses, gels, and other strategies to manage dry mouth and protect your teeth.
- 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. Shiveler 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.
- 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. Shiveler can recommend desensitizing toothpastes, fluoride treatments, or check for other issues like cavities or cracked teeth.
- What is the difference between a bridge and a partial denture?
- A dental bridge is a fixed appliance cemented to your teeth, while a partial denture is a removable appliance that clips onto your teeth. A bridge permanently fills the space of missing teeth, while a partial denture is a removable option for replacing missing teeth.
- How should I be cleaning my dentures properly?
- To keep your dentures clean, remove and rinse them after eating. Use a soft denture brush and 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.
- 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 whole tooth. Crowns are used for more extensive damage, like cracks or after a root canal, to provide extra strength and protection.
- 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.
2621 Mitcham Dr Ste 102
Tallahassee FL 32308
Phone: (850) 425-1300
Dr. Erin Shiveler, 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): 1619274529
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. Erin Shiveler 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.