Dr. Mark Goulding, DMD is a General Dentist dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive dental care for older adults at The Smile Centre in Sarasota, FL. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices in accordance with Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), ensuring patients receive the highest quality and legally compliant care. Dr. Goulding understands that oral health is inextricably linked to overall well-being, particularly for seniors, and actively collaborates with other healthcare providers to achieve optimal oral and systemic health for his patients, who are 65 years and older.
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. Goulding's focus is clearly on this population. He is currently welcoming new patients and encourages them to call (321) 328-7850 to schedule an appointment. Dr. Goulding is an active member of the Academy of General Dentistry and the American Dental Association, and enjoys traveling, cooking, and expanding his dental experience through volunteer activities and continuing education. My mission is to provide high quality care to my patients with compassion and empathy. Most importantly I want to empower my patients to take control of their own oral health by educating them on effective dental hygiene and the best personal practices for maintaining a bright healthy smile. Dr. Mark Goulding provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-provider partnership. Dr. Mark Goulding is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Mark Goulding is a compassionate partner in your senior's health journey, providing comprehensive dental care tailored to their unique needs. He understands the vital link between oral health and overall well-being, meticulously addressing age-related dental issues like dry mouth and gum disease, and proactively collaborating with other healthcare providers to ensure a holistic approach to care. His focus is on creating a supportive environment where your loved one feels comfortable and empowered to maintain optimal oral and overall health.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Mark Goulding can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Dental
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Advantage Plus PPO
- Aetna
- Ameritas
- Ameritas PPO
- Coventry Health Care
- Delta Dental
- Delta Dental PPO
- Delta Dental Premier
- Delta Dental of Washington
- Dental DPPO
- Dental Maintenance Organization DMO
- Dental Network of America
- Dental Network of America DPPO
- Dental PPO
- DentalGuard Preferred
- DenteMax
- Guardian
- Humana
- Humana PPO
- MetLife
- MetLife PDP
- Principal Financial Group
- United Concordia
- UnitedHealthCare
- Wellpath Preferred PPO
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Mark Goulding 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:
- Tooth Decay: Tooth decay, or cavities, happens when bacteria in your mouth create acids that damage your tooth enamel, leading to holes in your teeth that can cause pain and discomfort, but regular dental checkups and treatments can prevent further damage and maintain your ability to enjoy your favorite foods.
- Tooth Discoloration: Discolored teeth might be concerning, but many effective treatments are available. Your dentist can determine the source of the discoloration and recommend a personalized plan to restore the appearance of your teeth and improve your self-esteem.
- Tender Gums: Experiencing sensitive or sore gums? It's important to see your dentist promptly to determine the cause and get appropriate treatment, preserving your ability to comfortably eat and smile.
- 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.
- 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.
- Receding Gums: Receding gums, a common issue as we age, happen when the gum tissue pulls back, exposing more of the tooth and making teeth more sensitive and vulnerable to decay.
- 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 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.
- Mouth Conditions: From simple toothaches to more complex problems like dentures that don't fit well, various mouth conditions can impact daily life; regular dental checkups are crucial for early detection and treatment to maintain oral health and reduce discomfort.
- Dental Trauma: Dental trauma can range from minor chips to serious injuries, but with timely treatment from your dentist, you can restore your oral health and feel more confident in your smile.
- Plaque: Plaque, a colorless film of bacteria, contributes to cavities and gum problems, so consistent brushing, flossing, and dental checkups are important for long-term oral health.
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. Mark Goulding offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Amalgam Dental Fillings: Regular dental visits and, if necessary, the use of amalgam fillings as a restorative treatment, can play a critical role in preventing more serious dental problems in the future.
- Dental Cleaning: Through a thorough cleaning, your dentist can assess the health of your mouth, identifying potential problems early for effective management and treatment.
- Dental Crown: As part of your ongoing dental care, a crown can effectively restore a tooth's function and prevent the need for more extensive procedures later on.
- 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.
- Dental Implant: Dental implants are artificial tooth roots surgically placed into your jawbone, providing a stable base for replacement teeth, improving chewing and speaking ability and boosting your confidence.
- 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: Sometimes, removing a tooth is a crucial step in preparing for the placement of dentures, bridges, or dental implants, ensuring a successful outcome for tooth replacement.
- Teeth Whitening: As part of your routine dental check-up, teeth whitening can improve the aesthetics of your teeth, complementing other preventative measures.
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. Mark Goulding 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, once hesitant to smile due to painful tooth decay, now confidently enjoyed her favorite fruit, a testament to her improved oral health and the care she received.
- A senior citizen, previously self-conscious about their discolored teeth, found renewed confidence after professional treatment. They now smiled freely, enjoying social gatherings and feeling more comfortable in their daily life.
- After a visit to the dentist, a senior citizen was able to enjoy their favorite fruit again without discomfort, a significant improvement in their quality of life. Their family was relieved to see their loved one regain their appetite and smile.
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)
Here are answers to some common questions about Dental care with Dr. Mark Goulding:
- 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, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and poorly controlled 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's 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. Goulding 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 if not treated. Dr. Goulding can help create a gentle home care routine and perform a professional cleaning to reverse this.
- 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 significantly damaged, cracked, or has had a root canal to provide strength and protection.
- 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 lacks enamel protection. Years of brushing can also wear down enamel. Dr. Goulding can recommend desensitizing toothpastes, fluoride treatments, or check for other issues like cavities or cracked teeth.
- How should I be cleaning my dentures properly?
- To keep your dentures clean, remove and rinse them after every meal. Use a soft denture brush and non-abrasive cleaner on all surfaces daily. Gently brush your gums, tongue, and mouth roof, and soak your dentures overnight in a denture solution or water.
- What is involved in an oral cancer screening?
- An oral cancer screening is a quick, painless, yet vital part of every routine dental exam. Dr. Goulding will visually inspect your mouth and throat for any unusual sores or discoloration, 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 appliance cemented to your teeth, while a partial denture is a removable appliance that clips onto your teeth. A bridge permanently fills the gap, while a partial denture is removable for cleaning.
The Smile Centre
5899 Whitfield Ave Ste 105
Sarasota FL 34243
Phone: (321) 328-7850
Dr. Mark Goulding, 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): 1912493677
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. Mark Goulding 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.