Dr. Ronald James, DMD is a General Dentist dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive dental care for older adults at his clinic in Lakeland, FL. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). 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. He serves patients 65 years and older, and is currently welcoming new patients. Please call (863) 666-5449 to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Ronald James, DMD is a dentistry practitioner in Lakeland, FL with over 45 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from the University of Florida / College of Dentistry in 1979 and has a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to offer his patients and their families. His extensive training includes residency at Usaf Hospital Eglin Afb, followed by fellowship training in the Academy of General Dentistry, all culminating in his expertise in comprehensive medical care of patients 65 years and older. In his office, they strive to provide the very best dentistry in a caring and friendly atmosphere, prioritizing patient needs and desires. They work with a team of experienced and caring specialists to ensure the highest quality treatment. Dr. James provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-provider partnership. Dr. Ronald James is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. James is a dedicated partner in your senior's health journey, offering compassionate and comprehensive dental care. He understands the unique oral health needs of older adults, addressing age-related issues like dry mouth and gum disease while collaborating with other healthcare professionals to ensure the best possible overall well-being. His focus is not just on treatment, but on creating a supportive and personalized plan to maintain comfort and independence.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Ronald James 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. Ronald James 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: A cavity, or dental caries, is a hole in your tooth caused by tooth decay that can be repaired with a filling to prevent further damage and discomfort.
- Chipped Tooth: A small chip in your tooth might seem minor, but addressing it promptly helps prevent infection, discomfort, and potential problems down the line, ensuring you maintain your independence.
- 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: Inflamed and irritated gums, known as gingivitis, can be addressed through better oral care habits and professional cleaning by your dentist to keep your mouth healthy and comfortable.
- 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.
- 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.
- Tooth Decay: As we age, our teeth can become more susceptible to decay, but with prompt treatment from your dentist, such as fillings or crowns, you can preserve your natural teeth and continue to eat and smile with confidence.
- 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: Stains or discoloration on your teeth may affect how you feel about your smile. A visit to your dentist can reveal the cause and explore various solutions, such as bleaching or bonding, to improve your confidence and overall well-being.
- Tooth Loss: While tooth loss is a natural part of aging for some, it's often preventable with good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, and there are many ways to replace missing teeth to maintain your independence.
- Toothache: A toothache can significantly impact your quality of life, affecting your ability to enjoy meals and even sleep. Your dentist is the best resource for diagnosing and treating the underlying cause, helping you regain comfort and confidence.
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. Ronald James offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Dental Crown: As part of your ongoing dental care, a crown can effectively restore a tooth's function and prevent the need for more extensive procedures later on.
- Denture Repair: As part of your comprehensive dental care, denture repair ensures your dentures remain effective for eating and speaking.
- Teeth Scaling: A professional teeth scaling helps improve the overall health of your gums, leading to better long-term oral health.
- Composite Fillings: As a key step in managing tooth decay, composite fillings help prevent further damage and discomfort, contributing to a healthier mouth for seniors.
- Lower Dentures: Getting fitted for lower dentures can help restore your ability to enjoy your favorite foods and maintain a healthy diet.
- Restoration of Dental Implants: Restoring dental implants ensures your artificial teeth remain secure, comfortable, and functional, supporting your ability to eat and speak well.
- Root Planing: As part of your comprehensive dental care, root planing helps manage gum disease by smoothing the tooth roots, allowing your gums to heal and reducing inflammation.
- Ultrasonic Dental Cleaning: Ultrasonic cleaning is a more effective way to remove stubborn plaque and tartar buildup, especially important for seniors who may have difficulty with traditional cleaning methods.
- 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.
- Upper Dentures: For seniors with missing upper teeth, dentures help maintain facial structure and improve self-esteem, playing an essential role in their overall health journey.
- 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.
- 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. Ronald James 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:
- A senior woman, previously hesitant to eat crunchy foods due to tooth pain, rediscovered the joy of savoring apples and carrots after receiving a filling for a cavity. Her improved oral health allowed her to enjoy meals with her family without discomfort, enhancing her overall well-being.
- A senior woman, previously hesitant to smile due to a chipped tooth, regained her confidence and enjoyed engaging in social activities more readily after a simple dental procedure. Her family was relieved to see her renewed enjoyment of life.
- With improved dental health, a senior couple rediscovered the joy of sharing meals together, savoring 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
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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. Ronald James:
- 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, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and poorly controlled diabetes. Regular dental care is essential for maintaining not only healthy teeth and gums, but also your overall well-being.
- 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 a dry mouth significantly increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Dr. James 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 like a cap or helmet that covers the entire tooth, strengthening and protecting it when it's severely damaged, cracked, or has had a root canal.
- 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, 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 space of missing teeth, while a partial denture is removable for cleaning and eating.
- 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, which can progress to more serious gum disease if left untreated. This is often reversible with a professional cleaning and improved daily oral hygiene, and Dr. James can help create an effective and gentle home care routine.
- How should I be cleaning my dentures properly?
- To keep your dentures clean and healthy, remove and rinse them after each meal. Use a soft denture brush and non-abrasive cleaner to clean all surfaces daily. Gently brush your gums, tongue, and roof of your mouth, and soak your dentures overnight in a 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, exposing the tooth root, which is less protected than the enamel. Years of brushing can also wear down the enamel. Dr. James can recommend desensitizing toothpastes, fluoride treatments, or check for other potential causes like cavities or cracked teeth.
2024 Edgewood Dr S Ste 2
Lakeland FL 33803
Phone: (863) 666-5449
Dr. Ronald James, 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): 1467532143
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. Ronald James 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.