Dr. Robert Christ, DMD is a General Dentist dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive dental care for older adults at his clinic in Tarpon Springs, FL. He 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 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. Christ specifically serves patients 65 years and older, and is currently welcoming new patients. Please call (727) 934-1200 to schedule an appointment. My staff and I look forward to providing new patients with an extraordinary dental experience showing each patient the utmost in care, kindness and consideration. You will enjoy a friendly, caring environment while receiving the care you deserve. We believe in helping patients improve their quality of life and their health, for it is known that oral health has a direct relationship to the health of the entire person throughout one's life. We believe in personalized compassionate care that starts with a comprehensive diagnostic exam followed by an individualized treatment plan in which we will discuss the most appropriate options to restore and maintain the health of your smile. I enjoy interacting with patients of all ages to assist them in regaining and maintaining their oral health and rejuvenate their smile to one that they can be proud of. You can have confidence that my staff and I will spend the time needed to deliver dentistry in a comfortable caring atmosphere while educating you on how to maintain your oral health for a lifetime. We will make every effort to exceed your expectations in delivering personalized care based on your clinical needs. Our GOAL is to provide the best care for your long term dental health. "NOTHING YOU WEAR IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN YOUR SMILE" Robert M. Christ, DMD, FAGD, FICOI. With over 45 years of dedicated experience in Dental care, Dr. Christ brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. He earned his medical degree from the University of Florida, College of Dentistry in 1979. To further specialize, he pursued fellowship training in the Academy of General Dentistry (graduated 2001), and the International Congress of Oral Implantology (graduated 2000), deepening his expertise in a specific area of patient health. We have created a dental office that utilizes the latest technology in a relaxed atmosphere, thereby allowing us to deliver the highest level of quality care possible. We pride ourselves in giving our patients total comprehensive care and team with the most highly regarded specialists in the area to assure that patients receive the absolute best. Dr. Robert Christ provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-provider partnership. Dr. Robert Christ is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Christ is a compassionate partner in your senior's health journey, providing comprehensive dental care tailored to the unique needs of aging adults. He understands the vital connection between oral health and overall well-being, actively managing age-related issues like dry mouth and gum disease, and collaborating closely with other healthcare professionals to create a coordinated plan that prioritizes comfort and optimal oral health for each patient.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Robert Christ can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Sun Life Financial
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Aetna
- Alliance EPO
- Ameritas
- Ameritas PPO
- Anthem
- Cigna
- Delta Dental
- Delta Dental Premier
- Dental
- Dental Choice DPPO
- Dental Complete DPPO
- Dental 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. Robert Christ 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: Dental disorders can sometimes cause pain or discomfort, making it challenging to eat properly and affecting your nutrition; proactive dental care can alleviate these issues.
- Gingivitis: Maintaining healthy gums is crucial as gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums, can be prevented or reversed with proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits, improving overall comfort and oral health.
- Gum Disease: Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums that can damage the soft tissues and bones supporting your teeth, but with regular dental checkups and good oral hygiene, it can often be managed effectively.
- Misaligned Teeth: If your teeth are misaligned, it may make it harder to clean them thoroughly, increasing your risk of gum disease. Your dentist can help improve your oral health and make cleaning easier.
- Sleep Apnea: A dentist plays a key role in managing sleep apnea because oral appliances, crafted to fit your mouth, can often prevent airway blockage during sleep, restoring more restful nights.
- Tooth Decay: Untreated tooth decay can lead to serious dental problems like infections or tooth loss, negatively affecting your ability to eat and speak clearly. Regular dental care will help prevent such issues and keep you healthy and independent.
- Tooth Demineralization: Tooth demineralization is the loss of minerals from tooth enamel, making teeth weaker and more prone to cavities, but with proper dental care and fluoride treatments, you can strengthen your teeth and prevent further damage.
- Tooth Discoloration: Don't let stained or discolored teeth affect your confidence. Your dentist can identify the cause and recommend treatments like whitening or cosmetic bonding to improve the look of your smile, making you feel better about your appearance.
- Tooth Loss: Missing teeth can affect your self-esteem and quality of life, but advancements in dental technology provide safe and effective solutions to replace them and improve your oral health and overall well-being.
- 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.
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. Robert Christ offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Dental Implant: To address missing teeth and enhance your quality of life, dental implants provide a secure, natural-looking replacement that improves your ability to eat and smile with confidence.
- Restoration of Dental Implants: This procedure addresses any damage or issues with your existing dental implants, helping maintain their long-term health and preventing further problems.
- Denture Repair: Denture repair helps restore the proper fit and function of your dentures, improving comfort and chewing ability.
- Dental Examination: A dental examination allows your dentist to evaluate your teeth, gums, and overall oral health, helping ensure a comfortable and enjoyable eating and speaking experience.
- Porcelain Veneers: Porcelain veneers are thin shells of tooth-colored porcelain that are bonded to the front surfaces of teeth to improve their appearance, addressing cosmetic concerns as part of a comprehensive dental plan.
- Dental X-Ray: To monitor the health of your jawbone and the success of dental implants or bridges, your dentist may use X-rays as a vital part of your ongoing care.
- Dental Cleaning: A professional dental cleaning helps keep your teeth and gums healthy, reducing your risk of infections that can impact your overall well-being.
- Dental Bridge: A dental bridge acts as a supportive solution in your care journey, replacing missing teeth and restoring your smile's natural appearance and function.
- Dental Bonding: As part of your overall dental care, bonding helps to restore the integrity of a tooth, protecting it from further damage and potential infection.
- Root Planing: To maintain healthy gums and prevent tooth loss, root planing is a crucial treatment option that tackles the underlying causes of gum disease, helping you keep your natural teeth longer.
- Teeth Extraction: As a preventative measure, removing a tooth that's beyond repair can prevent the spread of infection to neighboring teeth or other areas of the body.
- Non-Surgical Gum Treatment: Regular non-surgical gum treatments help detect gum problems early, allowing for less invasive and more effective solutions.
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. Robert Christ 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 addressing a painful cavity, a senior couple rediscovered the joy of sharing meals together, savoring each bite without discomfort.
- A senior citizen, previously hesitant to eat certain foods due to a chipped tooth, enjoyed a renewed sense of comfort and confidence in their meals after a simple dental repair. The family was relieved that their loved one could now enjoy their favorite foods without pain or discomfort.
- With improved dental health, a senior couple could finally enjoy their favorite meals together again without discomfort, rekindling their cherished dining traditions.
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. Robert Christ:
- How is dental health connected to my overall health, like my heart?
- Regular dental care is crucial for overall health, not just for your teeth. 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. Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for preventing these systemic health issues.
- 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 concern. Saliva is the body's natural defense against cavities, so dry mouth significantly increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Dr. Christ 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 older adults with sufficient jawbone health. They are a secure, long-term way to replace missing teeth, anchoring a crown, bridge, or even a full denture, preventing slipping. This is a great investment in restoring chewing ability and confidence.
- How should I be cleaning my dentures properly?
- To keep your dentures clean and healthy, remove and rinse them after every meal. Use a soft denture brush and a non-abrasive cleaner to clean all surfaces daily. Gently brush your gums, tongue, and roof of your mouth, and soak your dentures overnight in denture solution or water.
- Why are my teeth becoming more sensitive as I get older?
- Tooth sensitivity in older adults is often due to receding gums, which exposes the tooth root. Years of brushing can also wear down enamel. Dr. Christ can recommend desensitizing toothpastes, fluoride treatments, or check for other issues like cavities or cracked teeth.
- 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. Christ will visually inspect your mouth and throat for any unusual sores or changes and gently feel your jaw and neck for lumps. Early detection is key to successful treatment.
- 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 entire tooth to provide strength and protection when the tooth is significantly damaged, cracked, or has had a root canal.
- My dentures don't fit as well as they used to. What can be done?
- As we age, our jawbone and gums naturally change shape, sometimes causing dentures to loosen. Dr. Christ can reline your dentures to create a better fit, or create a new set if the current one is significantly worn. A proper fit is important for comfortable eating and speaking.
3033 Ridgeline Blvd Ste A
Tarpon Springs FL 34688
Phone: (727) 934-1200
Dr. Robert Christ, 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): 1528102894
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. Robert Christ 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.