Dr. Karina Ottley, DDS is a General Dentist practicing at her clinic in Navarre, FL, dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive dental care for older adults. She 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. Ottley serves patients 65 years and older and is currently welcoming new patients. Please call (850) 939-0757 to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Karina Ottley, DDS is a dentistry practitioner in Navarre, FL with over 25 years of experience in the medical field. She graduated from the University of Missouri-Kansas City/School of Dentistry in 1999. With over 25 years of dedicated experience in dental care, she brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to her patients and their families. Following medical school, she undertook residency training in General Dentists at the University of Florida, specializing in the comprehensive medical care of 65 years and older. To further specialize, she pursued fellowship training in the Academy of General Dentistry, deepening her expertise in a specific area of patient health. Dr. Ottley's philosophy, "Quality Dentistry With a Gentle Touch," reflects her commitment to excellence in total oral health care, evidenced by her attendance at numerous advanced continuing education courses. She was awarded her Fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry (FAGD) in 2007 and received an achievement award from the American Dental Organization. Dr. Ottley offers consultations in Spanish.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-provider partnership. Dr. Karina Ottley is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Ottley is a compassionate and dedicated partner in your senior's health journey, providing comprehensive dental care tailored to their specific needs. She understands the unique oral health challenges of aging, actively managing conditions like dry mouth and gum disease, and collaborating seamlessly with other healthcare professionals to ensure a holistic approach to well-being. Dr. Ottley prioritizes a patient-centered experience, focusing on understanding individual goals and creating a supportive environment to maintain optimal oral and overall health.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Karina Ottley can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Cigna
- Delta Dental
- Delta Dental Premier
- MetLife
- MetLife PDP
- PDP Plus (Preferred Dentist Program) DPPO
- Total Dental DPPO
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Karina Ottley 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: 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.
- Chipped Tooth: Experiencing a chipped tooth can be concerning, but your dentist can assess the damage and recommend the best treatment to protect the tooth from further harm and restore its function.
- 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: Maintaining good oral hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing, along with regular visits to your dentist for checkups and cleanings, are essential steps to prevent tooth decay and ensure a healthy smile throughout your golden years.
- Tooth Demineralization: Weakening of tooth enamel due to mineral loss is called demineralization, which can lead to cavities and discomfort; thankfully, your dentist can detect and address it, helping you preserve your natural teeth and smile.
- Tooth Loss: Missing teeth can affect your self-esteem and quality of life, but advancements in dental technology provide safe and effective solutions to replace them and improve your oral health and overall well-being.
- 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. Karina Ottley offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Dental Bridge: A dental bridge acts as a supportive solution in your care journey, replacing missing teeth and restoring your smile's natural appearance and function.
- 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.
- Restoration of Dental Implants: Restoration of dental implants helps preserve your smile and confidence, allowing you to enjoy eating and social interactions without discomfort.
- 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.
- Teeth Extraction: As a preventative measure, removing a tooth that's beyond repair can prevent the spread of infection to neighboring teeth or other areas of the body.
- Teeth Whitening: As part of your routine dental check-up, teeth whitening can improve the aesthetics of your teeth, complementing other preventative measures.
- Porcelain Veneers: To address aesthetic issues and improve the look of your smile, your dentist might recommend porcelain veneers as a long-lasting solution within your overall dental care 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. Karina Ottley 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:
- After experiencing significant tooth pain, a senior was able to enjoy their morning coffee without discomfort, a simple pleasure regained thanks to the dentist's skillful restoration. The family felt immense relief knowing their loved one could once again confidently eat their favorite foods.
- A senior was able to enjoy her favorite crunchy snacks again after a chipped tooth was expertly repaired, restoring her smile and confidence. The family felt relieved knowing their loved one could confidently eat and maintain their healthy diet.
- A senior citizen, experiencing significant discomfort from a tooth abscess, found relief from pain and swelling after receiving professional dental care. The ability to comfortably eat and sleep again allowed them to return to their beloved hobby of knitting.
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. Karina Ottley:
- How is dental health connected to my overall health, like my heart?
- Dr. Ottley'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 essential for maintaining not only healthy teeth but also overall health and wellness.
- 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. Ottley can recommend special rinses, gels, and other strategies to manage dry mouth and protect 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 a cap or helmet that covers the entire tooth, providing strength and protection for a tooth that's more significantly damaged, cracked, or has had a root canal.
- 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, preventing slipping. This can be a great investment in restoring chewing ability and confidence.
- 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 untreated. This is often reversible with professional cleaning and improved daily oral hygiene, and Dr. Ottley can help create an effective and gentle home care routine.
- 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.
- My dentures don't fit as well as they used to. What can be done?
- Changes in jawbone and gum shape over time can cause dentures to loosen. Dr. Ottley can reline the existing denture for a better fit, or create a new one if needed. A proper fit is vital for comfortable eating and speaking.
- 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 vulnerable. Dr. Ottley can recommend desensitizing toothpastes, fluoride treatments, or investigate other potential causes like cavities or cracked teeth.
8117 Navarre Pkwy
Navarre FL 32566
Phone: (850) 939-0757
Dr. Karina Ottley, 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): 1083611131
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. Karina Ottley 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.