Dr. Phillip Kraver, DMD is a General Dentist practicing at his clinic in Cape Coral, FL, dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive dental care for older adults. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), ensuring adherence to the highest standards of care. 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. Kraver specifically serves patients 65 years and older, and is currently welcoming new patients.
Dr. Phillip Kraver, DMD is a dentistry practitioner in Cape Coral, FL, with over 10 years of experience in the medical field. He earned his medical degree from the University of Florida / College of Dentistry in 2010, followed by residency training in General Dentistry at Georgia Health Sciences University in 2011. With this extensive training and over a decade of dedicated experience, he brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. Dr. Kraver's approach emphasizes patient education, empowering seniors to take an active role in their oral health. He's passionate about dentistry and continuously updates his skills through over 100 hours of annual continuing education. He is committed to providing exceptional care and is available to his patients 24/7 for communication via phone, email, or text. Dr. Kraver provides consultations primarily in English. Please call (239) 549-8921 to schedule an appointment.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-provider partnership. Dr. Phillip Kraver is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Phillip Kraver is a compassionate partner in your senior's health journey, providing comprehensive dental care tailored to the unique needs of older adults. He understands the vital connection between oral health and overall well-being, proactively managing age-related dental issues and collaborating with other healthcare professionals to create a personalized plan that prioritizes comfort, function, and the highest quality of life.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Phillip Kraver 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. Phillip Kraver 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:
- Chronic Periodontitis: Persistent gum inflammation and bone loss, known as chronic periodontitis, may cause discomfort and even tooth loss; however, early diagnosis and treatment from your dentist can protect your teeth and improve your smile.
- 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.
- Toothache: A toothache, that persistent pain in your tooth, is often caused by decay, infection, or injury and can be relieved with a visit to your dentist who will provide the necessary treatment, improving your comfort and ability to eat.
- Herpes Stomatitis: Herpes stomatitis can cause significant discomfort, making it hard to eat and drink; your dentist can provide advice and treatment options to improve your quality of life.
- Oral Cancer: Regular dental visits are crucial for detecting oral cancer early, when treatment is most effective and can help maintain your ability to eat, speak, and enjoy life.
- Bad Taste in Mouth: A persistent bad taste in your mouth can be bothersome, but your dentist can help identify the cause, whether it's poor oral hygiene, a medical condition, or even certain medications, and recommend ways to improve it.
- Bleeding Gums: Experiencing bleeding gums might seem minor, but it's a signal to schedule a dental visit. Early intervention often means simple treatment to keep your mouth healthy and comfortable.
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. Phillip Kraver offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Denture Consultation: During a denture consultation, your dentist can identify any issues with your dentures, such as sores, ill-fitting areas, or signs of damage, and develop a plan to address them.
- Impacted Tooth Removal: For seniors, impacted tooth removal can be a crucial step in maintaining good oral hygiene and reducing the risk of more serious dental issues down the line.
- Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure (LANAP): For seniors with gum disease, LANAP provides a less invasive alternative to traditional gum surgery, potentially minimizing discomfort and recovery time.
- Diode Laser Soft Tissue Treatment: Diode laser treatment helps manage gum disease and other soft tissue problems in the mouth, promoting better oral health for seniors.
- Nitrous Oxide Administration: As part of a comprehensive care plan, nitrous oxide can facilitate more thorough dental exams and procedures for seniors, especially those with complex medical conditions.
- Denture Repair: Regular denture repair is a key part of maintaining oral health and preventing further damage to your gums and jawbone.
- Sinus Augmentation: To ensure successful placement of dental implants, sinus augmentation helps to increase the amount of bone in the upper jaw's sinuses, improving your implant success rate.
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. Phillip Kraver 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 improved gum health thanks to professional care, a senior couple could once again enjoy their favorite activity: savoring delicious meals together without the discomfort of chronic periodontitis.
- After addressing tooth decay concerns, a senior couple rediscovered the joy of enjoying meals together without the discomfort of painful chewing.
- A senior woman, previously struggling with debilitating tooth pain, found significant relief after a dental visit, allowing her to enjoy her favorite meals and smile confidently once more.
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
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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. Phillip Kraver:
- How is dental health connected to my overall health, like my heart?
- Maintaining healthy teeth and gums is crucial for overall well-being. 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 essential for preventing these issues and promoting your overall 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 significant dental concern. Saliva is the body's natural defense against cavities, so dry mouth increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Dr. Kraver can recommend special rinses, gels, and other strategies to manage dry mouth and protect your teeth.
- Are dental implants a safe and good option for older adults?
- Dental implants are often an excellent solution for seniors with sufficient jawbone health. They are a secure, long-term way to replace missing teeth, anchoring a crown, bridge, or even a full denture and preventing slipping. This is a great investment in restoring chewing ability and confidence.
- 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 taken out for cleaning and eating.
- Is it normal for my gums to bleed when I brush or floss?
- Healthy gums do not bleed. Bleeding is usually the first sign of gum inflammation, which can progress to periodontitis if left untreated. This is often reversible with professional cleaning and improved daily oral hygiene, and Dr. Kraver 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?
- Dr. Kraver's practice understands that changes in jawbone and gum tissue over time can affect denture fit. A relining procedure can reshape the denture's underside for a better fit, or a new denture can be created if the current one is significantly worn. A proper fit is important for comfortable eating and speaking.
- 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. Crowns are used when a tooth is significantly damaged, cracked, or has had a root canal, providing extra strength and protection.
- 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.
3001 Del Prado Blvd S
Cape Coral FL 33904
Phone: (239) 549-8921
Dr. Phillip Kraver, 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): 1104137488
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. Phillip Kraver 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.