Dr. Phong Phane, DMD is a General Dentist dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive dental care for older adults at her clinic in Saint Petersburg, FL. She is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), ensuring patients receive the highest quality care in a safe and regulated environment. Dr. Phong Phane is committed to being a trusted partner in her patients' health journey, recognizing the unique needs of individuals 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. Phong Phane's expertise extends beyond routine checkups, encompassing a deep understanding of the specific dental challenges faced by seniors. She earned her medical degree from the University of Florida, College of Dentistry, and subsequently completed residency training in General Dentistry at the University of Florida Aegd, specializing in the comprehensive medical care of individuals 65 years and older. Her approach to care prioritizes collaborative, evidence-based medicine, creating a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. Dr. Phong Phane is currently welcoming new patients and can be reached at (727) 323-0377 to schedule an appointment. She also offers consultations in Lao.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-provider partnership. Dr. Phong Phane is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Phane is a compassionate partner in your senior's health journey, providing comprehensive dental care tailored to the unique needs of older adults. She prioritizes managing age-related oral health concerns like dry mouth and gum disease, and collaborates closely with other healthcare professionals to ensure optimal oral and overall well-being. This holistic approach emphasizes understanding each patient's individual circumstances and goals, creating a supportive and reassuring environment for a positive health experience.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Phong Phane can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Sun Life Financial
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Alliance EPO
- Ameritas
- Ameritas PPO
- Anthem
- Cigna
- Connection Dental
- Connection Dental PPO
- Delta Dental
- Delta Dental Premier
- Dental
- Dental Advantage DPPO
- Dental Choice DPPO
- Dental Complete DPPO
- Dental PPO
- DentalConnect PPO
- DentalGuard Preferred
- Dominion National
- Elite Plus DPPO
- Guardian
- Humana
- Humana PPO
- Lincoln Financial Group
- MetLife
- PDP Plus (Preferred Dentist Program) DPPO
- Principal Financial Group
- Total Dental DPPO
- United Concordia Dental
- UnitedHealthCare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Phong Phane 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:
- Orofacial Infection: Sometimes, an injury to your mouth or face can lead to an infection requiring prompt dental care, so it's important to seek professional help to prevent further complications and regain oral comfort, which is essential for maintaining your overall independence.
- Periodontitis: While gum disease (periodontitis) may seem daunting, it's manageable with regular dental visits and a dedicated oral hygiene routine, allowing you to preserve your smile and overall well-being as you age.
- 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.
- Alveolar Bone Loss: As we age, the bone holding our teeth can shrink, a condition called alveolar bone loss, sometimes causing teeth to feel loose; however, regular dental checkups and treatments like bone grafts can help preserve your teeth and your ability to enjoy your favorite foods.
- Clicking of Temporomandibular Joint: If your jaw clicks or pops, it's important to see your dentist. TMJ issues can often be treated conservatively with simple changes, helping you maintain a good quality of life as you age.
- Tooth Decay Caused by Acid Attack: Over time, acidic substances weaken tooth enamel, making teeth vulnerable to decay and potentially leading to pain or discomfort. Addressing this with your dentist through fillings or other treatments can improve your comfort and overall oral health.
- Thrush: For seniors, thrush can be a significant discomfort. A visit to your dentist for diagnosis and treatment can bring quick relief and help you maintain your independence.
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. Phong Phane offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Arestin Therapy: Arestin helps your dentist manage gum disease more effectively by delivering an antibiotic directly to the affected area, a valuable addition to your regular dental care.
- Osseous Surgery: This specialized surgical procedure helps to repair or regenerate bone structure in the mouth, supporting the long-term success of tooth replacements.
- Endodontic Treatment: Your dentist might recommend endodontic treatment as a way to preserve your natural teeth, improving your chewing ability, confidence, and overall quality of life.
- Silver Diamine Fluoride Treatment: This minimally invasive treatment helps your dentist prevent further damage from cavities, ensuring that your mouth remains healthy and comfortable for years to come.
- Porcelain Veneers: To address aesthetic issues and improve the look of your smile, your dentist might recommend porcelain veneers as a long-lasting solution within your overall dental care strategy.
- Dental Laser Procedure: Laser technology assists dentists in performing a wide range of procedures, from simple cavity preparation to more complex gum surgeries, making treatment more efficient and precise.
- Porcelain Bridge: A porcelain bridge is a fixed dental restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth, improving chewing, speech, and your overall smile, thus enhancing your quality of life.
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. Phong Phane 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 a course of treatment for an orofacial infection, a senior citizen was able to enjoy their favorite meals without discomfort, regaining their confidence in eating independently.
- With improved oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, a senior couple found their smiles brighter and their ability to enjoy meals with their family significantly enhanced.
- After a persistent bad taste, a senior couple enjoyed their favorite meals again, savoring the flavors and company of their loved ones without the unpleasant aftertaste.
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. Phong Phane:
- 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 and have been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and poorly controlled diabetes. Regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential for maintaining both your 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 can significantly increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Dr. Phane 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. Crowns are used when a tooth is more severely 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 them after eating and rinse them thoroughly. Use a soft denture brush and non-abrasive cleaner to clean all surfaces daily. Gently brush your gums, tongue, and palate, and soak your dentures overnight in a denture solution or water.
- 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 crowns, bridges, or full dentures 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, permanent replacement for missing teeth, while a partial denture is a removable appliance. A bridge is cemented to the teeth on either side of the gap, while a partial denture clips onto existing teeth.
- My dentures don't fit as well as they used to. What can be done?
- Over time, the jawbone and gums naturally change shape, sometimes causing dentures to loosen. A relining procedure can reshape the underside of the denture for a better fit, or a new denture may be necessary if the current one is significantly worn. A proper fit is important for comfortable eating and speaking.
- Is it normal for my gums to bleed when I brush or floss?
- No, healthy gums should not bleed. Bleeding is often the first sign of gum inflammation (gingivitis), which can progress to more serious periodontitis if left untreated. This is often reversible with a professional cleaning and improved daily oral hygiene, and Dr. Phane can help create an effective and gentle home care routine.
3388 49th St N
Saint Petersburg FL 33710
Phone: (727) 323-0377
Dr. Phong Phane, 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): 1124450283
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. Phong Phane 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.