Dr. Leanne Sullivan, DMD is a General Dentist dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive dental care for older adults. She practices at her clinic in Wesley Chapel, FL, and is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine, practicing under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). Dr. Sullivan understands the unique dental needs of individuals 65 years and older, recognizing that oral health significantly impacts 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. Sullivan is committed to this collaborative, evidence-based approach, creating a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. She is currently welcoming new patients and encourages them to call (813) 991-0097 to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Leanne Sullivan, DMD is a dentistry practitioner in Wesley Chapel, FL. She is accepting new patients. Dr. Sullivan's practice prioritizes the specific needs of seniors, offering personalized care in a supportive setting. She strives to provide consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-provider partnership. Dr. Leanne Sullivan is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Leanne Sullivan is a compassionate partner in your senior's health journey, offering comprehensive dental care tailored to the unique needs of older adults. She meticulously addresses age-related oral concerns like dry mouth and gum disease, while prioritizing the overall well-being of her patients. Dr. Sullivan's approach emphasizes collaboration with other healthcare providers to ensure a holistic and coordinated plan of care, maximizing comfort and quality of life for seniors.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Leanne Sullivan can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Delta Dental
- Delta Dental Premier
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Leanne Sullivan 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:
- Cleft Lip and Palate: A cleft lip or palate is a birth defect that causes a gap in the lip or roof of the mouth, but with proper care and treatment throughout life, including surgeries and speech therapy, individuals can lead full and healthy lives.
- Toothache: A toothache, that persistent pain in your tooth, is often caused by decay, infection, or injury and can be relieved with a visit to your dentist who will provide the necessary treatment, improving your comfort and ability to eat.
- TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) Dysfunction: TMJ dysfunction can make chewing and talking painful, but your dentist can create a treatment plan including things like exercises, splints, or other therapies that can help reduce discomfort and maintain your independence.
- Malocclusion (Bad Bite): Having a misaligned bite (malocclusion) might make chewing food less efficient and cause jaw strain. However, treatment options tailored to your needs can help improve your comfort and make eating enjoyable again.
- Cleft Palate: Although a cleft palate, a condition where the roof of the mouth doesn't fully close during development, can present challenges, early and ongoing dental intervention can help ensure a person's comfort and well-being.
- Pericoronitis: If you have a partially erupted tooth causing gum inflammation and pain, it might be pericoronitis; your dentist can provide treatment to relieve your discomfort and prevent further complications.
- Thrush: Thrush, a common mouth infection caused by yeast, can be treated with antifungal medications prescribed by your dentist, improving your comfort and ability to eat.
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. Leanne Sullivan offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Air Abrasion: Air abrasion can be a less invasive alternative to traditional dental drills for seniors, making it a more comfortable option for sensitive teeth.
- Replacing Missing Teeth: A comprehensive dental care plan often includes replacing missing teeth to improve oral function and prevent jawbone loss.
- Restorative Procedure: As part of your comprehensive dental care, restorative procedures address tooth damage, improving chewing function and preventing further issues.
- Oral Sedation: Oral sedation allows dentists to perform more complex procedures on seniors who might otherwise struggle to remain still and comfortable.
- Dental Hygiene Services: Dental hygiene services are key to maintaining your dentures or other dental replacements, ensuring comfort and proper function for many years to come.
- Arestin Therapy: To enhance the success of your periodontal treatment, your dentist may recommend Arestin, a localized antibiotic that helps reduce bacteria and improve the healing process.
- Diode Laser Soft Tissue Treatment: As part of a comprehensive dental plan, diode laser treatment can precisely target and treat oral soft tissue issues, improving comfort and healing.
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. Leanne Sullivan 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 years of managing a cleft lip and palate, a senior felt significantly more comfortable eating and smiling. With the dentist's guidance, they regained confidence in social situations and enjoyed their favorite foods without discomfort.
- After years of discomfort, a senior felt a renewed sense of enjoyment eating their favorite foods, free from the persistent toothache. The family rejoiced at the improved quality of life for their loved one.
- After struggling with painful chewing and talking, a senior was able to enjoy their favorite foods and conversations again with the help of a tailored treatment plan. The family felt immense relief knowing their loved one could maintain their independence and quality of life.
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. Leanne Sullivan:
- How is dental health connected to my overall health, like my heart?
- Maintaining healthy teeth and gums is crucial for 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 therefore an essential part of maintaining 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, 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. Sullivan can recommend special rinses, gels, and other strategies to manage dry mouth and protect your teeth.
- Is it normal for my gums to bleed when I brush or floss?
- No, healthy gums should not bleed. Bleeding when brushing or flossing is usually the first sign of gum inflammation, which can progress to more serious gum disease. Dr. Sullivan can help create a gentle home care routine and perform a professional cleaning to reverse this.
- 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. Sullivan can recommend desensitizing toothpastes, fluoride treatments, or check for other potential causes like cavities or cracked teeth.
- My dentures don't fit as well as they used to. What can be done?
- Dr. Sullivan's practice understands that changes in jawbone and gum tissue over time can cause dentures to loosen. A relining procedure can often reshape the denture for a better fit, or a new denture can be created if the current one is significantly worn. A proper fit is important for comfortable eating and speaking.
- 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, and preventing slipping. This is a great investment in restoring chewing ability and confidence.
- What is involved in an oral cancer screening?
- Dr. Sullivan's oral cancer screenings are a quick, painless, but vital part of your routine dental exam. She 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.
- How should I be cleaning my dentures properly?
- To clean your dentures properly, 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.
5713 Gray Rd
Wesley Chapel FL 33543
Phone: (813) 991-0097
Dr. Leanne Sullivan, 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): 1346369980
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. Leanne Sullivan 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.