Dr. Nathalie Vera, DMD is a General Dentist practicing at her clinic in Fort Lauderdale, FL. She is a dedicated partner in senior health, registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). Dr. Vera is committed to providing compassionate, comprehensive dental care tailored to the specific needs of older adults, recognizing the unique challenges and opportunities inherent in this population. Her practice prioritizes the well-being of her patients, 65 years and older, by focusing on both oral health and its connection to overall health.
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. Vera's approach is rooted in collaborative, evidence-based medicine, ensuring patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. She is currently welcoming new patients and encourages them to call (954) 938-2447 to schedule an appointment. Dr. Nathalie Vera, DMD is a dentistry practitioner in Fort Lauderdale, FL. She is accepting new patients. Dr. Vera provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-provider partnership. Dr. Nathalie Vera is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Vera acts as a compassionate and dedicated partner in your senior's health journey, offering comprehensive dental care tailored to their unique needs. She understands the vital connection between oral health and overall well-being, proactively managing age-related issues like dry mouth and gum disease. Dr. Vera's approach prioritizes collaboration with other healthcare providers to ensure a holistic and personalized plan, maximizing comfort and maintaining the highest quality of life for your loved one.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Nathalie Vera 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
- Advantage Plus PPO
- Aetna
- Alliance EPO
- Ameritas
- Ameritas PPO
- Anthem
- BlueDental Choice & Choice Plus DPPO
- Cigna
- Connection Dental
- Connection Dental PPO
- Coventry Health Care
- Delta Dental
- Delta Dental PPO
- Delta Dental Premier
- Dental
- Dental Advantage DPPO
- Dental Choice DPPO
- Dental Complete DPPO
- Dental DPPO
- Dental PPO
- Dental Prime DPPO
- DentalConnect PPO
- DentalGuard Preferred
- Dominion National
- Elite Plus DPPO
- Florida Blue
- Guardian
- Humana
- Humana PPO
- Lincoln Financial Group
- MetLife
- MetLife PDP
- PDP Plus (Preferred Dentist Program) DPPO
- Principal Financial Group
- SimplyBlue
- Total Dental Administrators PPO
- Total Dental Administrators PPO PPO
- Total Dental DPPO
- United Concordia
- United Concordia Dental
- UnitedHealthCare
- Wellpath Preferred PPO
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Nathalie Vera 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:
- Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Oral squamous cell carcinoma is a type of mouth cancer that, when caught early, can often be successfully treated, preserving your ability to eat, speak, and enjoy life.
- Tooth Avulsion: Losing a tooth due to an accident? Immediate action with a dentist is crucial for reattachment and preserving your smile and ability to eat comfortably.
- 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.
- Oral Hairy Leukoplakia: If you notice a fuzzy, white area on your tongue, it might be oral hairy leukoplakia, a condition typically associated with a weakened immune system, which your dentist can help manage.
- 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.
- Mouth Ulcer: A mouth ulcer is a small sore inside your mouth that can be painful but usually heals on its own within a couple of weeks with proper care, improving your comfort and ability to eat.
- Worn Down Teeth: Worn-down teeth, a common concern as we age, can be addressed by your dentist through fillings, crowns, or dentures, restoring chewing ability and improving comfort.
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. Nathalie Vera offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Dental Crown: If a filling isn't enough to repair a significantly damaged tooth, a crown provides a durable, long-lasting solution, ensuring your smile remains healthy and beautiful for years to come.
- Periodontal Exam: A comprehensive periodontal exam is vital for seniors as it helps prevent tooth loss and improves overall oral health, which is connected to overall well-being.
- 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.
- Ultrasonic Dental Cleaning: By removing plaque and bacteria with ultrasonic technology, this cleaning helps reduce inflammation and improve gum health, a vital aspect of your overall health journey.
- 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.
- Dento Alveolar Surgery: Dentoalveolar surgery can improve the success of dentures, implants, or other restorative dental work by addressing underlying bone or gum issues.
- Gum Disease Treatment: Through careful treatment, gum disease can be managed effectively, improving your oral comfort and reducing the risk of serious health complications.
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. Nathalie Vera 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 undergoing treatment for oral squamous cell carcinoma, a senior was able to resume enjoying her favorite hobby of baking cookies for her grandchildren, a cherished activity that brought immense joy to her family.
- After a fall, a senior's lost tooth was quickly reattached by a dentist, restoring their ability to enjoy their favorite meal of roasted vegetables and a glass of wine. The family felt immense relief knowing their loved one could once again eat comfortably and confidently.
- After addressing a painful cavity, a senior woman was able to enjoy her favorite crunchy snacks again without discomfort, restoring a joyful part of her daily routine.
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. Nathalie Vera:
- How is dental health connected to my overall health, like my heart?
- Dr. Vera's practice emphasizes the critical link between oral and systemic 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 essential for maintaining not only healthy teeth, but 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'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. Vera can recommend special rinses, gels, and other strategies to manage dry mouth and protect your teeth.
- What is involved in an oral cancer screening?
- Dr. Vera's oral cancer screenings are a quick, painless, yet 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.
- What is the difference between a bridge and a partial denture?
- A dental bridge is a permanent fixture cemented to your teeth, while a partial denture is a removable appliance that clips onto your teeth. A bridge fills the gap with a false tooth permanently, and a partial denture fills the gap(s) with a removable appliance.
- 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 whole tooth. Crowns are needed when a tooth is more severely damaged, cracked, or has had a root canal, to provide extra strength and protection.
- Is it normal for my gums to bleed when I brush or floss?
- No, healthy gums should not bleed. Bleeding is usually the first sign of gum inflammation, which can progress to more serious gum disease. This is often reversible with professional cleaning and improved daily oral hygiene, and Dr. Vera can help create an effective and gentle home care routine.
- 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 even a full denture and preventing slippage. This is a great investment for restoring chewing ability and confidence.
- My dentures don't fit as well as they used to. What can be done?
- Dr. Vera's practice understands that changes in jawbone and gum shape over time can affect denture fit. A relining procedure can reshape the denture base for a better fit, or a new denture may be necessary if the existing one is significantly worn. A proper fit is crucial for comfortable eating and speaking.
2740 E Commercial Blvd
Fort Lauderdale FL 33308
Phone: (954) 938-2447
Dr. Nathalie Vera, 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): 1780901116
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. Nathalie Vera 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.