Dr. Francisco Espinosa, DMD is a General Dentist dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive dental care for older adults, 65 years and older, at his clinic in Palmetto Bay, FL. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under 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. Espinosa is a valued partner in your senior's health journey, committed to creating a supportive environment where patients and families feel heard and empowered.
Dr. Francisco Espinosa, DMD is a dentistry practitioner in Palmetto Bay, FL with over 25 years of experience in the medical field. He earned his medical degree from the University of Florida / College of Dentistry in 1996. With this extensive experience, he brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. He is committed to collaborative, evidence-based medicine, ensuring that his approach to care is tailored to the unique needs of each individual. He is currently accepting new patients, and you can schedule an appointment by calling (305) 235-2345. Dr. Francisco Espinosa provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-provider partnership. Dr. Francisco Espinosa is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Espinosa is a dedicated partner in your senior's health journey, providing comprehensive dental care tailored to the unique needs of older adults. He understands the vital connection between oral health and overall well-being, proactively managing age-related issues like dry mouth and gum disease, and collaborating closely with other healthcare providers to ensure a coordinated and supportive approach to care. His compassionate care prioritizes not only the immediate dental needs but also the long-term comfort and independence of each patient.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Francisco Espinosa can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Anthem
- Delta Dental
- Delta Dental Premier
- Dental Complete DPPO
- Dental Prime DPPO
- Elite Plus DPPO
- United Concordia Dental
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Francisco Espinosa 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:
- Gummy Smile (Oversized Gingiva): If you're self-conscious about showing too much gum tissue when you smile, know that a dentist can help improve your smile's appearance and boost your self-esteem.
- Gingivostomatitis: Experiencing pain or swelling in your mouth and gums? Gingivostomatitis may be the cause, and early treatment from your dentist can prevent complications and preserve your oral health.
- Impacted Teeth: An impacted tooth is a tooth that's stuck and can't break through the gum line, sometimes causing pain or infection, which your dentist can address through extraction or other appropriate treatments to improve your comfort.
- Mouth Lesions: Mouth lesions are abnormal areas or sores inside your mouth that your dentist can identify and treat, often improving comfort and preventing complications.
- Broken Dental Appliance: If a crown, bridge, or denture breaks, it can affect your chewing and speech. Your dentist can repair or replace the appliance, improving your quality of life and making daily activities easier.
- Tooth Decay Caused by Acid Attack: The acids from certain foods and drinks can slowly damage your teeth, eventually causing cavities. Early detection and treatment by your dentist, such as fillings or crowns, can prevent more serious problems and maintain your ability to chew comfortably.
- Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Oral squamous cell carcinoma is a type of mouth cancer that, when caught early, can often be successfully treated, preserving your ability to eat, speak, and enjoy life.
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. Francisco Espinosa offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Dental Bonding: Dental bonding can address minor aesthetic issues and improve chewing function, contributing to better overall oral health.
- 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.
- Extraction of Wisdom Tooth: For seniors, wisdom tooth extraction might be recommended to reduce the risk of infections and improve access for cleaning, thereby supporting overall well-being.
- Root Canal: Root canal treatment is a vital part of preserving your natural teeth, preventing the need for more extensive procedures like extractions.
- Same-Day Dental Crowns: With same-day crowns, you can quickly address tooth damage and improve your oral health, leading to better overall well-being and confidence.
- Cone Beam 3D Imaging: Cone beam 3D imaging provides detailed, three-dimensional pictures of your mouth, helping your dentist accurately plan for procedures like implants or complex extractions.
- Upper Dentures: Regular checkups and adjustments of upper dentures are crucial for preventing sores, infections, and ensuring a proper fit, supporting overall oral health.
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. Francisco Espinosa 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 confident smile restored through gentle dental care, a senior woman rediscovered the joy of sharing laughter with her grandchildren, a cherished family tradition.
- After experiencing significant pain and swelling in their mouth and gums, a senior felt a noticeable improvement in their comfort level and quality of life, thanks to the dentist's proactive treatment plan. They were able to enjoy their favorite foods again without discomfort.
- With impacted teeth causing less discomfort, a senior couple felt more confident and secure in their own home, able to enjoy their favorite meals and conversations without pain.
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. Francisco Espinosa:
- How is dental health connected to my overall health, like my heart?
- Dr. Espinosa'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 and gums, but also your overall health and 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 your body's natural defense against cavities, so dry mouth significantly increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Dr. Espinosa can recommend special rinses, gels, and other strategies to manage dry mouth and protect your teeth.
- What is involved in an oral cancer screening?
- Dr. Espinosa's oral cancer screenings are a quick, painless, yet vital part of every routine exam. He visually inspects your lips, cheeks, gums, tongue, and throat for any unusual sores or discolorations, and gently feels your jaw and neck for any lumps. Early detection is key to successful treatment.
- What is the difference between a bridge and a partial denture?
- A dental bridge is a fixed, permanent appliance cemented to your teeth, while a partial denture is a removable appliance that clips onto your teeth.
- Why are my teeth becoming more sensitive as I get older?
- Tooth sensitivity in seniors is often due to receding gums, exposing the tooth root. Years of brushing can also wear down enamel. Dr. Espinosa can recommend desensitizing toothpastes, fluoride treatments, or check for other issues like cavities or cracked teeth.
- 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. Crowns are used when a tooth is more severely damaged, cracked, or has had a root canal, providing extra strength and protection.
- My dentures don't fit as well as they used to. What can be done?
- Dr. Espinosa's practice understands that changes in jawbone and gum tissue over time can affect denture fit. A relining procedure can reshape the denture base for a better fit, or a new denture can be created if necessary. A proper fit is vital for comfortable eating and speaking.
- How should I be cleaning my dentures properly?
- To keep your dentures clean, remove and rinse them after every meal. 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.
9000 SW 152nd St Ste 201
Palmetto Bay FL 33157
Phone: (305) 235-2345
Dr. Francisco Espinosa, 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): 1053433003
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. Francisco Espinosa 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.