Dr. Hilary Prill, DMD is a General Dentist dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive dental care for older adults, 65 years and older, at her clinic in Rockledge, FL. She is a registered member of The Florida Board of Medicine, practicing 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. Prill, a graduate of Satellite High School (1996), the University of Florida (2000), and Nova Southeastern University (2004), where she earned her Doctorate of Dental Medicine, brings over 20 years of dedicated experience in dental care to her practice. Her commitment to patient-centered care, as expressed in her practice philosophy, ensures a positive experience for every patient. Dr. Prill strives to create a calm and respectful environment, making dental visits less daunting. She is currently welcoming new patients and encourages you to call (321) 633-4020 to schedule an appointment. Dr. Prill provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-provider partnership. Dr. Hilary Prill is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Hilary Prill is a compassionate and dedicated partner in your senior's health journey, offering comprehensive dental care tailored to the unique needs of older adults. She recognizes the vital link between oral health and overall well-being, proactively managing age-related dental issues like dry mouth and gum disease. Dr. Prill collaborates closely with other healthcare providers to ensure a holistic approach, prioritizing the comfort and independence of each patient.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Hilary Prill can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Blue Cross Blue Shield
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Aetna
- Ameritas
- Ameritas PPO
- Assurant Health
- Cigna
- Connection Dental
- Connection Dental PPO
- Dental Choice DPPO
- Dental DPPO
- Dental Network DHMO
- Dental Network DPPO
- Dental PPO
- DentalConnect PPO
- DentalGuard Preferred
- Dominion National
- Focus Dental Network DPPO
- GRID - TN
- GRIDPlus - TN
- Guardian
- Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey
- 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
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Hilary Prill 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: Cavities develop when bacteria break down tooth enamel, causing a small hole that can lead to toothache and potential infection if left untreated; regular dental checkups and prompt treatment keep your smile healthy.
- 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.
- Gingivitis: Maintaining healthy gums is crucial as gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums, can be prevented or reversed with proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits, improving overall comfort and oral health.
- Tooth Abscess: If you have a throbbing toothache and swelling, it could be a tooth abscess, a condition that a dentist can address with treatments like antibiotics and potentially a root canal to save your tooth or an extraction if necessary.
- 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 Discoloration: Stains or discoloration on your teeth may affect how you feel about your smile. A visit to your dentist can reveal the cause and explore various solutions, such as bleaching or bonding, to improve your confidence and overall well-being.
- 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. Hilary Prill offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Composite Fillings: A comprehensive approach to senior dental care often includes composite fillings as a way to preserve natural teeth and maintain oral health for years to come.
- Dental Bonding: To enhance the longevity of your natural teeth, bonding can be used to cover minor imperfections and strengthen weakened tooth enamel.
- Dental Bridge: As part of a comprehensive care plan, a dental bridge helps manage the consequences of missing teeth, preventing further dental issues and improving your quality of life.
- Dental Crown: A dental crown is a cap placed over a damaged tooth to restore its shape, strength, and appearance, helping maintain your smile and ability to eat comfortably.
- Denture Repair: Addressing denture problems promptly through repair helps avoid more extensive or costly procedures down the line.
- 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: A root canal helps save a severely infected tooth by removing the damaged pulp and sealing the root to prevent further infection and pain.
- Root Planing: Root planing is a deep cleaning procedure that helps remove plaque and tartar buildup beneath the gum line, supporting your gums' health and preventing further gum disease.
- Simple Tooth Extractions: For seniors facing tooth loss, simple tooth extraction, as a step toward proper oral care, can be a pathway to improved chewing and speaking abilities.
- Teeth Scaling: Scaling your teeth removes hard deposits that irritate gums, a crucial step in keeping your smile bright and healthy.
- Teeth Whitening: Incorporating teeth whitening into your dental care can help you maintain a beautiful smile throughout your senior years.
- 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.
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. Hilary Prill 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 plagued by toothaches and discomfort, regained her enjoyment of eating crunchy fruits and vegetables after receiving timely dental care for a cavity. Her family felt immense relief knowing she could now comfortably participate in their favorite meals together.
- A senior citizen, previously hesitant to eat crunchy foods due to a chipped tooth, regained confidence and enjoyment in their favorite activities after a simple dental repair. The family was relieved to see their loved one's improved comfort and ability to eat without discomfort.
- With improved oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, a senior woman experienced a significant reduction in gum inflammation, allowing her to enjoy her favorite foods with greater comfort and confidence.
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. Hilary Prill:
- How is dental health connected to my overall health, like my heart?
- Good oral hygiene is crucial for overall health. Bacteria from chronic gum disease can enter the bloodstream and have been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential for maintaining both oral and systemic 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 dry mouth significantly increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Dr. Prill can recommend special rinses, gels, and other strategies to manage dry mouth and protect your teeth.
- 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, which is less protected than the enamel. Years of brushing can also wear down enamel. Dr. Prill can recommend desensitizing toothpastes, fluoride treatments, or check for other problems like cavities or cracked 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. Prill will visually inspect your lips, cheeks, gums, tongue, 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 replacement for missing teeth, cemented to the surrounding teeth. A partial denture is a removable appliance that clips onto existing teeth to fill in the gaps.
- 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 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.
- 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 (gingivitis), which can progress to periodontitis if not treated. This is often reversible with professional cleaning and improved daily oral hygiene, and Dr. Prill can help create an effective and gentle home care routine.
- 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 there's more significant damage, like a crack or after a root canal.
573 Barnes Blvd Ste 101
Rockledge FL 32955
Phone: (321) 633-4020
Dr. Hilary Prill, 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): 1972514719
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. Hilary Prill 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.