Dr. Hershell Steele, DDS is a General Dentist dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive dental care for older adults, 65 years and older, at his clinic in Bonita Springs, FL. He is a registered member of The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the 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. Steele's approach to care is deeply rooted in collaboration and evidence-based medicine, creating a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. He is fluent in German and also offers consultations in Spanish.
With over 20 years of dedicated experience in dental care, Dr. Steele brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. He earned his medical degree from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry in 2000, followed by an internship at the University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences in 2001. He began practicing dentistry in 2001 and relocated to Fort Myers, Florida, in 2002. In addition to his professional pursuits, Dr. Steele enjoys ballroom dancing and is preparing for amateur competitions, alongside gymnastics strength training and competitive running. Dr. Steele is currently welcoming new patients and invites you to schedule an appointment by calling (850) 920-7520.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-provider partnership. Dr. Hershell Steele is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Steele is a compassionate partner in your senior's health journey, offering comprehensive dental care tailored to the unique needs of aging adults. He expertly manages age-related dental issues, including dry mouth and gum disease, while collaborating closely with other healthcare providers to ensure optimal oral and overall well-being. His dedication to patient-centered care prioritizes understanding individual needs and goals, fostering a supportive environment for seniors and their families.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Hershell Steele can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Dental
DenteMax
Sun Life Financial
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Aetna
- Ameritas
- Ameritas PPO
- Anthem
- Cigna
- Coventry Health Care
- Delta Dental
- Delta Dental PPO
- Delta Dental Premier
- 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
- Guardian
- Humana
- Humana PPO
- Lincoln Financial Group
- MetLife
- PDP Plus (Preferred Dentist Program) DPPO
- Principal Financial Group
- Total Dental Administrators PPO
- Total Dental Administrators PPO PPO
- Total Dental DPPO
- United Concordia Dental
- UnitedHealthCare
- Wellpath Preferred PPO
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Hershell Steele 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: That bothersome cavity is a sign of tooth decay that needs attention; your dentist can easily fill it to stop the decay, prevent future problems, and maintain your ability to enjoy eating.
- Chipped Tooth: Chipped teeth, especially if sharp edges are present, can cause irritation and discomfort while eating. Your dentist can smooth and repair the chip, making meals more enjoyable again.
- 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: Gingivitis is an early stage of gum disease where your gums become inflamed and may bleed easily, often manageable with improved brushing and flossing techniques.
- Gum Disease: Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums that can damage the soft tissues and bones supporting your teeth, but with regular dental checkups and good oral hygiene, it can often be managed effectively.
- Sleep Apnea: If you snore loudly and feel tired during the day, you might have sleep apnea, a condition your dentist can help diagnose and treat with a custom-fitted oral device.
- Tooth Abscess: A tooth abscess is a painful infection that can affect your ability to eat and sleep comfortably; timely treatment from your dentist will greatly improve your quality of life.
- Tooth Decay: Untreated tooth decay can lead to serious dental problems like infections or tooth loss, negatively affecting your ability to eat and speak clearly. Regular dental care will help prevent such issues and keep you healthy and independent.
- Tooth Demineralization: As we age, our teeth can lose essential minerals, leading to weakening and increased risk of cavities; however, regular dental checkups and treatments can help maintain strong and healthy teeth.
- Tooth Discoloration: As we age, teeth can naturally darken; however, discoloration can also be a sign of other issues. Your dentist can help determine the cause and recommend the best treatment option for a healthier, more aesthetically pleasing smile.
- 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: A toothache can significantly impact your quality of life, affecting your ability to enjoy meals and even sleep. Your dentist is the best resource for diagnosing and treating the underlying cause, helping you regain comfort and confidence.
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. Hershell Steele offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Composite Fillings: As a key step in managing tooth decay, composite fillings help prevent further damage and discomfort, contributing to a healthier mouth for seniors.
- Dental Bonding: Dental bonding is a cosmetic procedure that repairs chipped or cracked teeth, improving your smile's appearance and confidence.
- Dental Bridge: To maintain your oral health, a dental bridge helps restore chewing ability and prevent adjacent teeth from shifting, enhancing both function and aesthetics.
- Dental Crown: If a filling isn't enough to repair a significantly damaged tooth, a crown provides a durable, long-lasting solution, ensuring your smile remains healthy and beautiful for years to come.
- Denture Repair: Denture repair helps restore the proper fit and function of your dentures, improving comfort and chewing ability.
- Porcelain Veneers: Porcelain veneers are thin shells of tooth-colored porcelain that are bonded to the front surfaces of teeth to improve their appearance, addressing cosmetic concerns as part of a comprehensive dental plan.
- Restoration of Dental Implants: By restoring your dental implants, you're actively participating in a comprehensive oral health plan that prioritizes function, comfort, and longevity.
- Root Canal: If you have a tooth with significant decay or injury, a root canal can be a key component of your comprehensive dental care plan to address pain and maintain oral health.
- Root Planing: As part of your comprehensive dental care, root planing helps manage gum disease by smoothing the tooth roots, allowing your gums to heal and reducing inflammation.
- 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 Scaling: Teeth scaling helps remove plaque and tartar buildup, preventing gum disease and keeping your mouth healthy.
- Teeth Whitening: While not always medically necessary, teeth whitening can be a valuable cosmetic procedure to enhance your self-esteem and overall oral health strategy.
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. Hershell Steele 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:
- Grandma beamed as she savored her favorite fruit salad, a delicious reminder that her bothersome cavity, addressed by a skilled dentist, was no longer a source of discomfort and significantly improved her ability to enjoy meals.
- A senior citizen, previously uncomfortable eating certain foods due to a chipped tooth, found significant relief after a visit to the dentist. Smooth, repaired edges allowed them to enjoy their favorite meals with renewed comfort and confidence.
- With improved oral health, a senior couple rediscovered the joy of savoring meals together, a cherished family tradition. Their improved ability to chew comfortably brought renewed enjoyment to their daily lives.
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)
- Golden Carver Award for Excellence in Restorative Dentistry, 2000
Here are answers to some common questions about Dental care with Dr. Hershell Steele:
- How is dental health connected to my overall health, like my heart?
- Maintaining good oral health is crucial for overall well-being. 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 preventing these issues and supporting your overall health.
- 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 your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Dr. Steele can recommend special rinses, gels, and other strategies to manage dry mouth and protect your teeth.
- How should I be cleaning my dentures properly?
- To keep your dentures clean and healthy, 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, and soak your dentures overnight in a denture solution or water.
- 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. Steele can recommend desensitizing toothpastes, fluoride treatments, or check for other issues that may be causing the problem.
- What is involved in an oral cancer screening?
- An oral cancer screening is a quick, painless, yet vital part of your routine dental exam. Dr. Steele 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.
- 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.
- 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 significantly damaged, cracked, or has had a root canal, strengthening and protecting it.
- Is it normal for my gums to bleed when I brush or floss?
- No, healthy gums should not bleed. Bleeding is often the first sign of gum inflammation, which can progress to periodontitis if not treated. Dr. Steele can help create a gentle home care routine and a professional cleaning to reverse this.
27499 Riverview Center Blvd Ste 238
Bonita Springs FL 34134
Phone: (850) 920-7520
Dr. Hershell Steele, DDS 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): 1952515108
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. Hershell Steele 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.