Dr. Michael Murphy, DMD is a General Dentist practicing at his clinic in South Daytona, FL, dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive dental care for older adults. He is a registered member of The Florida Board of Medicine, practicing under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), and understands the unique dental needs of those 65 years and older. His approach to care prioritizes collaboration and evidence-based medicine, ensuring that patients and their families feel empowered in making informed decisions about their healthcare.
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. Murphy is committed to this holistic approach, working closely with patients to address their specific concerns and maintain their oral health. He is currently welcoming new patients, and encourages those 65 years and older to call (386) 767-8383 to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Michael Murphy, DMD is a dentistry practitioner in South Daytona, FL. He is accepting new patients and dedicated to providing a supportive environment for his patients and their families. Dr. Murphy understands the importance of clear communication and actively listens to his patients' concerns. He strives to provide consultations primarily in English, ensuring clear and accessible information for all those he serves.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-provider partnership. Dr. Michael Murphy is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Michael Murphy is a dedicated partner in your senior's health journey, offering comprehensive dental care tailored to the unique needs of older adults. He understands that oral health is intrinsically linked to overall well-being, proactively managing age-related issues like dry mouth and gum disease. Dr. Murphy collaborates seamlessly with other healthcare providers to ensure a holistic approach, prioritizing the comfort and independence of each patient.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Michael Murphy can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
DenteMax
Sun Life Financial
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Advantage Plus 20 DHMO
- Alliance EPO
- Ameritas
- Ameritas PPO
- Anthem
- Dental
- Dental Choice DPPO
- Dental Complete DPPO
- Dental PPO
- DentalConnect PPO
- Dominion National
- Elite Plus DPPO
- Humana
- Humana PPO
- Lincoln Financial Group
- Principal Financial Group
- Total Dental Administrators PPO
- Total Dental Administrators PPO PPO
- United Concordia Dental
- UnitedHealthCare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Michael Murphy 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: A chipped tooth, a common mishap, can be easily repaired by your dentist, restoring both your smile's appearance and your confidence in chewing comfortably.
- Dental Disorders: Addressing dental disorders helps prevent infections and complications that can lead to further health problems, ensuring you can maintain your independence and enjoy your favorite foods.
- Gingivitis: If you experience swollen or bleeding gums, it might be gingivitisa gum infection easily treated with professional cleaning and improved brushing, helping maintain a healthy smile for years to come.
- 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.
- 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: Cavities are a common dental issue that can affect anyone at any age, including seniors, however, early detection through regular dental visits allows for timely treatment, preventing more extensive damage and avoiding painful procedures later.
- Tooth Discoloration: Tooth discoloration, a change in your teeth's color, can be addressed by your dentist through professional cleaning, whitening treatments, or veneers to restore a brighter smile and boost your confidence.
- Toothache: If you're dealing with a toothache, it's important to seek dental care right away. Your dentist can assess the pain, determine the source (like a cavity or impacted wisdom tooth), and create a personalized treatment plan for lasting relief.
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. Michael Murphy offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Partial Dentures: As part of a comprehensive dental care plan, partial dentures address missing teeth, aiding in better digestion and preventing further dental issues.
- Implant-Supported Bridge: An implant-supported bridge replaces missing teeth with artificial ones anchored to dental implants, restoring your smile and chewing ability for a better quality of life.
- Amalgam Dental Fillings: Amalgam fillings serve as a key element in maintaining oral function and comfort by restoring damaged teeth to their original shape and function.
- Extraction of Wisdom Tooth: As part of a comprehensive oral health assessment, extracting a wisdom tooth can help maintain the health of your existing teeth and prevent further complications.
- Composite Fillings: During a routine checkup, your dentist may recommend composite fillings to address minor cavities and prevent the need for more extensive procedures later.
- Porcelain Veneers: Porcelain veneers offer a way to reshape and improve the appearance of teeth, helping you feel more comfortable and confident in your smile as part of your aging journey.
- Restoration of Dental Implants: Restoration of dental implants helps preserve your smile and confidence, allowing you to enjoy eating and social interactions without discomfort.
- Lower Dentures: A well-fitting set of lower dentures is part of a comprehensive dental care plan, helping maintain oral health and overall well-being.
- 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.
- Simple Tooth Extractions: For seniors facing tooth loss, simple tooth extraction, as a step toward proper oral care, can be a pathway to improved chewing and speaking abilities.
- Root Canal: As part of your ongoing dental health, a root canal can address severe toothaches and restore a tooth's function, helping you eat, speak, and smile comfortably.
- Teeth Whitening: Incorporating teeth whitening into your dental care can help you maintain a beautiful smile throughout your senior years.
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. Michael Murphy 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:
- With the cavity addressed, a senior woman rediscovered the joy of biting into her favorite apples, a cherished part of her daily routine. Her smile, once shadowed by pain, now radiated confidence and comfort.
- A senior woman enjoyed a more confident smile and the ability to comfortably eat her favorite fruits again after a chipped tooth was expertly repaired by a general dentist. Her family was thrilled that she could once more fully participate in their cherished meals together.
- With improved oral health, a senior couple rediscovered the joy of sharing meals together, savoring the flavors of their favorite foods without discomfort.
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. Michael Murphy:
- How is dental health connected to my overall health, like my heart?
- Dr. Murphy's practice emphasizes the critical link between oral and overall health. Bacteria from chronic gum disease can enter the bloodstream and have been linked to an increased risk for heart disease, stroke, and poorly controlled diabetes. Regular dental care is therefore an essential part of maintaining your 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 dry mouth significantly increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Dr. Murphy 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 when a tooth is more damaged, cracked, or has had a root canal.
- 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. Murphy 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.
- 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 provide a secure, long-term way to replace missing teeth, anchoring a crown, bridge, or full denture, and preventing slipping. This is 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 when brushing or flossing is usually the first sign of gum inflammation (gingivitis), which can progress to periodontitis. Dr. Murphy can help create a gentle home care routine and perform a professional cleaning to reverse this.
- My dentures don't fit as well as they used to. What can be done?
- Dr. Murphy's practice understands that changes in jawbone and gum shape over time can affect denture fit. A reline to reshape the denture's underside, or a new denture if needed, can restore a comfortable and secure fit. A proper fit is crucial for good oral health and function.
- What is the difference between a bridge and a partial denture?
- A dental bridge is a fixed, permanent restoration cemented to your teeth. A partial denture is a removable appliance that clips onto your teeth to replace missing ones.
821 Big Tree Rd
South Daytona FL 32119
Phone: (386) 767-8383
Dr. Michael Murphy, 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): 1538450218
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. Michael Murphy 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.