Dr. Erin Sutton, DMD is a General Dentist practicing at her clinic in Fort Walton Beach, FL, dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive dental care for older adults. She is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), ensuring adherence to the highest standards of care. Dr. Sutton understands the unique dental needs of individuals 65 years and older, recognizing that oral health is intricately linked to overall well-being.
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. Sutton's approach emphasizes a collaborative, evidence-based model of care, creating a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. She is committed to understanding each patient's individual circumstances and working with them to develop personalized treatment plans. Prospective patients should call (850) 863-1722 to confirm if Dr. Sutton is currently accepting new patients.
Dr. Erin Sutton, DMD is a dentistry practitioner in Fort Walton Beach, FL, dedicated to providing exceptional dental care to seniors. She prioritizes creating a comfortable and trusting environment for her patients, focusing on preventative care and addressing any concerns proactively. Dr. Sutton's commitment to collaborative care ensures that patients receive the best possible outcomes, and she strives to be a trusted partner in their health journey. Dr. Erin Sutton provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-provider partnership. Dr. Erin Sutton is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Erin Sutton is a compassionate partner in your senior's health journey, providing comprehensive dental care tailored to their unique needs. She understands the vital link between oral health and overall well-being, addressing age-related issues like dry mouth and gum disease while collaborating with other healthcare providers to create a coordinated plan that prioritizes comfort and independence.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Erin Sutton can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Erin Sutton 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:
- Oral Lichenoid Lesions: These painless white or reddish patches in your mouth, called oral lichenoid lesions, are often treatable, improving your ability to eat comfortably.
- Cavity: If you experience tooth sensitivity or pain, it may indicate a cavity; your dentist will assess and restore the tooth to its function and prevent further complications.
- Oral Cancer: Don't ignore changes in your mouth sores that don't heal, lumps, or white or red patches. Early detection of oral cancer through your dentist can make a huge difference in your treatment and overall well-being.
- TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) Dysfunction: TMJ problems, affecting the jaw joint, can cause limitations in your daily life, but your dentist can help manage this through various treatment options, improving your quality of life and ensuring you can easily enjoy meals and conversations.
- Leukoplakia: Sometimes, painless white patches appear in the mouth; this is called leukoplakia, and your dentist can assess it to ensure it doesn't pose a risk.
- Occlusal Disease: Occlusal disease refers to problems with how your upper and lower teeth fit together, which can cause jaw pain, headaches, and tooth wear, and your dentist can help manage this through adjustments or appliances to improve comfort and function.
- Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: If you're diagnosed with oral squamous cell carcinoma, know that various treatments are available to address it, helping you maintain 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. Erin Sutton offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Oral Conscious Sedation: This sedation technique assists your dentist in providing comprehensive care by facilitating longer and more complex treatments that may be necessary due to age-related oral health changes.
- Orthognathic Surgery: Orthognathic surgery is a way to manage severe jaw misalignments that can impact not only the teeth, but also the airway, and overall facial structure, making it an integral part of your overall well-being.
- Digital X-Ray (CDR): These advanced X-rays help your dentist accurately diagnose problems like impacted teeth or cysts that might not be visible during a regular examination.
- Inlay Restoration: To effectively address moderate tooth decay, your dentist may recommend an inlay to improve your oral health and help prevent more extensive treatment.
- Oral Sedation: This medication helps seniors undergo dental procedures more easily, improving their ability to receive the necessary care for better oral health.
- Removable Partial Dentures (RPD): Removable partial dentures are a helpful solution for seniors who have lost some, but not all, of their natural teeth, restoring their ability to chew and smile confidently.
- Denture Consultation: A denture consultation allows your dentist to thoroughly examine your mouth and gums, checking for any signs of irritation or infection associated with denture use and to make recommendations for treatment.
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 Sutton 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, experiencing discomfort eating, found relief from oral lichenoid lesions with the dentist's guidance. Now, they enjoy their favorite meals without pain and discomfort.
- After experiencing tooth pain and sensitivity, a senior felt much more comfortable eating and smiling again, regaining the joy of sharing meals with loved ones.
- A senior felt a significant improvement in their quality of life after early detection and treatment of oral cancer, allowing them to resume their favorite hobby of playing the guitar without 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. Erin Sutton:
- How is dental health connected to my overall health, like my heart?
- Dr. Sutton'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 vital for maintaining not only healthy teeth but also 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 is a dental problem. Saliva is the body's natural defense against cavities, so a dry mouth significantly increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Dr. Sutton can recommend special rinses, gels, and other strategies to manage dry mouth and protect your 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 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.
- 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, providing strength and protection for a more significantly damaged tooth.
- What is involved in an oral cancer screening?
- Dr. Sutton's oral cancer screenings are a quick, painless, yet vital part of every routine exam. She 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 enamel, making teeth more sensitive. Dr. Sutton can recommend desensitizing toothpastes, fluoride treatments, or check for other potential problems.
- My dentures don't fit as well as they used to. What can be done?
- Over time, changes in your jawbone and gums can cause dentures to loosen. Dr. Sutton can reline the existing denture to create a better fit, or, if the denture is significantly worn, make a new one. A good fit is important for comfortable eating and speaking.
- Is it normal for my gums to bleed when I brush or floss?
- No, healthy gums should not bleed. Bleeding is usually 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. Sutton can help create an effective and gentle home care routine.
931 Mar Walt Dr
Fort Walton Beach FL 32547
Phone: (850) 863-1722
Dr. Erin Sutton, 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): 1245371962
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 Sutton 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.