Dr. Maria-Marcia Carvalho, DDS is a General Dentist dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive dental care for older adults at her clinic in Port Charlotte, FL. She is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), ensuring patients receive high-quality, legally compliant care. She is committed to being a trusted partner in their health journey, recognizing that oral health is inextricably linked to overall well-being, especially for seniors.
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. Maria-Marcia Carvalho understands the unique needs of patients 65 years and older and strives to create a supportive environment for them to maintain their oral health throughout their golden years. She is currently welcoming new patients and encourages them to call (941) 629-4400 to schedule an appointment. Dr. Maria-Marcia Carvalho, DDS is a dentistry practitioner in Port Charlotte, FL. She is accepting new patients. Dr. Carvalho is committed to collaborative, evidence-based medicine, ensuring patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. Dr. Maria-Marcia Carvalho provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-provider partnership. Dr. Maria-Marcia Carvalho is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Carvalho is a dedicated partner in your senior's health journey, offering compassionate and comprehensive dental care. She recognizes the crucial link between oral health and overall well-being, addressing age-related concerns like dry mouth and gum disease with personalized strategies. Her approach prioritizes collaboration with other healthcare professionals to ensure a holistic and coordinated plan for optimal oral and systemic health, promoting comfort and independence for your loved one.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Maria-Marcia Carvalho can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Delta Dental
- Delta Dental PPO
- Delta Dental Premier
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Maria-Marcia Carvalho 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:
- Dental Injury: A dental injury, such as a chipped tooth or broken denture, can be painful and affect your ability to eat comfortably, but your dentist can repair or replace the damaged tooth or denture, restoring your ability to enjoy your favorite foods.
- Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Regular dental check-ups including oral cancer screenings are crucial for early detection of oral squamous cell carcinoma, allowing for timely intervention that improves chances for a positive outcome.
- Dental Disorders: Maintaining good oral health is crucial for seniors as it significantly affects overall well-being, and addressing dental disorders can improve your diet, confidence, and overall quality of life.
- Gum Disease: As we age, gum disease becomes more common, but it's important to remember that early detection and treatment can prevent serious problems like tooth loss and keep you enjoying your favorite foods.
- Dental Crowding: Dental crowding happens when your teeth are too crowded in your mouth, making it hard to clean them properly and potentially leading to discomfort or decay, but a dentist can help with solutions like braces or extractions to improve your smile and oral health.
- Misaligned Teeth: Over time, teeth can shift, causing discomfort and affecting your bite. Your dentist can assess the misalignment and recommend treatment options to restore proper chewing and improve your smile.
- Underbite: Dealing with an underbite can impact your confidence and eating habits, but don't worry; your dentist can discuss different ways to adjust your bite and improve your quality of 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. Maria-Marcia Carvalho offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Dental Gum Flap Surgery: As part of a comprehensive approach to senior dental care, gum flap surgery can effectively address deep pockets of infection, improving both gum and overall health.
- Debridement: To create a comprehensive dental care plan, your dentist may use debridement to assess the current state of your gums and teeth, guiding appropriate treatment.
- Dental Bridge: A dental bridge is a valuable tool in the diagnosis and treatment of missing teeth; it improves speech, prevents jawbone deterioration, and enhances your overall confidence.
- Dental X-Ray: A dental X-ray provides a detailed picture of your teeth and jawbone, helping your dentist develop a comprehensive plan for managing your oral health.
- Denture Consultation: A denture consultation helps your dentist assess the fit, comfort, and function of your dentures, ensuring they're properly supporting your oral health and chewing ability.
- Composite Fillings: Composite fillings are tooth-colored materials used to repair cavities, restoring the tooth's function and appearance as part of your overall dental health plan.
- Dental Implant: As a crucial part of your overall dental health plan, dental implants offer a long-lasting solution for missing teeth, helping to prevent jawbone deterioration and maintain facial structure.
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. Maria-Marcia Carvalho 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 a chipped tooth was repaired, a senior citizen was able to once again enjoy the crunchy texture of fresh vegetables, a beloved part of their daily diet.
- Regular dental check-ups allowed for early detection of oral squamous cell carcinoma, enabling timely treatment and restoring the patient's confidence in enjoying meals and social activities without discomfort.
- With improved oral health, a senior woman rediscovered the joy of eating a wider variety of foods, leading to a noticeable boost in her overall energy levels.
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. Maria-Marcia Carvalho:
- 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 poorly controlled diabetes. Regular dental care is not just about your teeth; it's 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. Carvalho 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. Years of brushing can also wear down enamel. Dr. Maria-Marcia Carvalho can recommend desensitizing toothpastes, fluoride treatments, or check for other issues like cavities or cracked teeth.
- My dentures don't fit as well as they used to. What can be done?
- Dr. Carvalho'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 more secure fit, or a new denture can be created if the existing one is significantly worn. A proper denture fit is key for comfortable eating and clear speech.
- 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 needed when a tooth is severely damaged, cracked, or has had a root canal, providing extra strength and protection.
- 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 of missing 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. Carvalho 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.
- 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. Maria-Marcia Carvalho can help create a gentle home care routine and provide a professional cleaning to reverse this.
2866 Tamiami Trl Ste F
Port Charlotte FL 33952
Phone: (941) 629-4400
Dr. Maria-Marcia Carvalho, 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): 1831340512
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. Maria-Marcia Carvalho 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.