Dr. Mercedes Mayans, DDS is a General Dentist practicing at her clinic in Miami, FL. She is dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive dental care specifically for older adults, 65 years and older. Registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), Dr. Mayans understands the unique dental needs of this population. She recognizes that 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. Prospective patients should call (305) 267-3377 to confirm if she is currently accepting new patients.
Dr. Mercedes Mayans, DDS is a dentistry practitioner in Miami, FL, committed to a patient-centered approach to care. She believes in the power of collaborative, evidence-based medicine, ensuring that each patient feels heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. Her practice prioritizes creating a supportive environment where patients and their families feel comfortable asking questions and actively participating in their treatment plans. She strives to provide individualized care, recognizing that every senior's needs are unique. Dr. Mayans provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-provider partnership. Dr. Mercedes Mayans is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Mercedes Mayans is a dedicated partner in your senior's health journey, providing compassionate and comprehensive dental care. She understands the unique needs of aging adults, addressing not only oral health concerns like dry mouth and gum disease but also recognizing the vital connection between oral health and overall well-being. Dr. Mayans collaborates closely with other healthcare providers to ensure a coordinated and holistic approach to care, ultimately promoting comfort, independence, and the best possible quality of life for her patients.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Mercedes Mayans can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Mercedes Mayans 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:
- Clicking of Temporomandibular Joint: Don't let jaw clicking affect your enjoyment of meals or conversations. A dentist can diagnose and treat temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues, often improving function and reducing pain with minimal intervention, keeping you comfortable and active.
- Occlusal Disease: Misaligned bites or uneven tooth wear, known as occlusal disease, can lead to discomfort and difficulty chewing; your dentist can create custom mouthguards or other solutions to alleviate these issues and improve your ability to eat.
- Oral Motor Problems: Changes in mouth muscle strength or coordination can affect eating and speaking; a dentist can assess these issues and suggest strategies or devices to support your independence.
- Hypodontia: Hypodontia means you were born without some of your adult teeth, but don't worry! Your dentist can work with you to find suitable replacement options for a healthy, confident smile.
- Tongue-Tie: Tongue-tie, or ankyloglossia, is a condition where the tissue connecting the tongue to the bottom of the mouth is too short, potentially affecting speech, eating, and overall oral health.
- Grinding of Teeth (Bruxism): The unconscious grinding of teeth (bruxism) is surprisingly common and treatable; a simple visit to your dentist can provide a diagnosis and a solution, like a night guard, improving sleep quality and preventing dental damage.
- Tooth Discoloration: As we age, teeth can naturally darken; however, discoloration can also be a sign of other issues. Your dentist can help determine the cause and recommend the best treatment option for a healthier, more aesthetically pleasing smile.
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. Mercedes Mayans offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Replacing Missing Teeth: Dental implants or dentures can replace missing teeth, improving speech clarity and preventing further jawbone deterioration.
- Apicoectomy: Sometimes, a root canal isn't enough to heal an infected tooth root; an apicoectomy is a more advanced procedure to save the tooth and alleviate discomfort.
- Jaw Reconstruction Surgery: As part of a comprehensive care plan, jaw reconstruction surgery can correct jaw deformities or damage caused by trauma or disease.
- Comprehensive Dental Exam: During a comprehensive dental exam, your dentist can screen for oral cancer, a critical step in early detection and successful treatment.
- Dental Examination: Through a thorough examination, your dentist can assess your oral health, enabling them to create a personalized care plan tailored to your specific needs and prevent future problems.
- IV Sedation: IV sedation helps make complex dental procedures more comfortable for seniors who might experience anxiety or discomfort.
- Teeth Polishing: Polishing your teeth during a dental visit is a preventative measure to help reduce your risk of cavities and improve your oral hygiene.
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. Mercedes Mayans 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 was able to fully enjoy meals again, chewing comfortably without the distracting jaw clicking, thanks to a dentist's personalized treatment plan. The family celebrated the return of lively conversations and laughter, a joy previously muted by the discomfort.
- With custom mouthguards prescribed by a dentist, a senior couple found renewed enjoyment in their favorite hobby of savoring gourmet meals, no longer experiencing the painful jaw discomfort that had previously limited their dining experiences.
- After struggling with chewing and speaking, a senior felt a renewed sense of independence thanks to a dentist's assessment and strategies to improve their oral motor function. The family rejoiced at the improvement in their loved one's ability to enjoy meals and conversations again.
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
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- HCA Florida St. Lucie Hospital Port St. Lucie (Residency Hospital)
Here are answers to some common questions about Dental care with Dr. Mercedes Mayans:
- How is dental health connected to my overall health, like my heart?
- Maintaining good oral health 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 vital for protecting your entire body's 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. Saliva is your body's natural defense against cavities, so dry mouth significantly increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Dr. Mayans can recommend special rinses, gels, and other strategies to manage dry mouth and protect your teeth.
- 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 gaps.
- 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 to protect and strengthen it when the tooth is severely damaged, cracked, or has had a root canal.
- What is involved in an oral cancer screening?
- Dr. Mayans performs a quick, painless oral cancer screening during every routine exam. This involves visually inspecting your mouth and throat for any unusual sores or discolorations, and gently feeling your jaw and neck for lumps. Early detection is crucial for successful treatment.
- How should I be cleaning my dentures properly?
- To properly clean your dentures, remove and rinse them after eating. Use a soft denture brush and non-abrasive cleaner on 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 gums are usually the first sign of gum inflammation, which can progress to more serious gum disease. This is often reversible with a professional cleaning and improved daily oral hygiene, and Dr. Mayans can help create an effective and gentle home care routine.
- My dentures don't fit as well as they used to. What can be done?
- Over time, the jawbone and gums change shape, sometimes causing dentures to loosen. We can often reline the denture to reshape the underside for a better fit, or create a new denture if the current one is significantly worn. A proper fit is essential for comfortable eating and speaking.
6517 Coral Way
Miami FL 33155
Phone: (305) 267-3377
Dr. Mercedes Mayans, 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): 1760417380
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. Mercedes Mayans 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.