Dr. Sandra Pojtek, DMD is a General Dentist dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive dental care for older adults at her Riverview, FL clinic. She is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). Dr. Pojtek understands the unique dental needs of individuals 65 years and older, recognizing that general dentists play a vital role in the overall health of this population. This includes 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. She is accepting new patients and encourages you to call (813) 630-4079 to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Sandra Pojtek, DMD is a dentistry practitioner in Riverview, FL, accepting new patients. She earned her medical degree from the University of Montreal, Quebec, followed by residency training in General Dentists at East Carolina University, specializing in the comprehensive medical care of individuals 65 years and older. Her practice philosophy emphasizes creating a comfortable and compassionate environment for patients, understanding that dental visits can sometimes be anxiety-provoking. Dr. Pojtek believes in empowering patients through education about their oral health, enabling informed treatment decisions. She is committed to ethical, evidence-based, and conservative dentistry, striving to provide the highest quality care. Dr. Pojtek offers consultations in several languages, including French, Slovak, and Spanish.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-provider partnership. Dr. Sandra Pojtek is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Pojtek is a compassionate partner in your senior's health journey, offering comprehensive dental care tailored to the unique needs of older adults. She recognizes the vital link between oral health and overall well-being, addressing age-related dental issues like dry mouth and gum disease while proactively collaborating with other healthcare providers to ensure a coordinated and holistic approach to care. Her dedication is centered on understanding each patient's individual circumstances and goals, fostering a supportive environment that promotes comfort and independence.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Sandra Pojtek 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
- BlueDental Choice & Choice Plus DPPO
- Connection Dental
- Connection Dental PPO
- Delta Dental
- Delta Dental PPO
- Delta Dental Premier
- Dental
- Dental Choice DPPO
- Dental Complete DPPO
- Dental PPO
- DentalConnect PPO
- DentalGuard Preferred
- Dominion National
- Elite Plus DPPO
- Florida Blue
- Guardian
- Humana
- Humana PPO
- Lincoln Financial Group
- Principal Financial Group
- Total Dental Administrators PPO
- Total Dental Administrators PPO PPO
- United Concordia Dental
- UnitedHealthCare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Sandra Pojtek 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:
- Misaligned Teeth: Slightly crooked teeth might not seem serious, but they can lead to increased wear and tear on your teeth and jaw, which can be addressed with dental solutions designed for seniors.
- Facial Trauma: If you've experienced facial trauma, seeing a dentist is important to assess any damage to your teeth, gums, or jaw. Treatment ensures proper healing and prevents future problems.
- Tartar Buildup: Hardened plaque, called tartar, can build up on teeth, leading to discomfort and gum disease; your dentist can remove tartar during routine cleanings, protecting your teeth and gums.
- Thrush: Thrush can make eating and talking difficult, but thankfully, your dentist can offer effective antifungal medications to clear up this infection and improve your quality of life.
- Dental Crowding: Having crowded teeth can make it harder to keep them clean and healthy, potentially leading to problems later on; a dentist can help by assessing your specific situation and offering solutions to improve your smile and prevent future issues.
- Dry Tooth Socket: A dry tooth socket is when the area where a tooth was extracted feels dry and may be painful, but your dentist can help manage this discomfort with simple treatments to promote healing and prevent complications.
- 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.
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. Sandra Pojtek offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Composite Fillings: Composite fillings offer a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution for repairing decayed or damaged teeth, enhancing your smile and confidence.
- Dental Inlays: A dental inlay is a strong, tooth-colored restoration that helps your dentist manage moderate tooth decay and maintain a beautiful smile.
- Dental Bridge: To maintain your oral health, a dental bridge helps restore chewing ability and prevent adjacent teeth from shifting, enhancing both function and aesthetics.
- Root Canal: By removing infected tissue inside the tooth and carefully sealing the area, a root canal can resolve pain and save a tooth from requiring extraction.
- Porcelain Veneers: Porcelain veneers offer a way to reshape and improve the appearance of teeth, helping you feel more comfortable and confident in your smile as part of your aging journey.
- Teeth Extraction: Sometimes, removing a tooth is a crucial step in preparing for the placement of dentures, bridges, or dental implants, ensuring a successful outcome for tooth replacement.
- Dental Bonding: Incorporating dental bonding into your care plan helps maintain the health and appearance of your teeth, boosting your self-esteem and oral function.
- Lower Dentures: A well-fitting set of lower dentures is part of a comprehensive dental care plan, helping maintain oral health and overall well-being.
- Restoration of Dental Implants: By restoring your dental implants, you're actively participating in a comprehensive oral health plan that prioritizes function, comfort, and longevity.
- 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.
- Ultrasonic Dental Cleaning: This advanced cleaning method helps your dentist detect early signs of gum disease or tooth decay, allowing for prompt treatment and preserving your teeth for years to come.
- Dental Onlay: Similar to a filling, a dental onlay helps manage substantial tooth damage by providing a strong, durable covering to preserve your natural tooth structure.
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. Sandra Pojtek 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:
- Grandma beamed as she finally enjoyed her favorite fruit salad without struggling to chew, thanks to a dental solution that addressed her misaligned teeth. The family felt so much relief knowing she could now comfortably eat the foods she loved.
- After a fall, a senior felt significantly less pain and discomfort thanks to a dentist's expert care, allowing them to smile confidently and enjoy their favorite meals again.
- Grandma finally felt comfortable smiling again after a thorough cleaning removed the tartar buildup, restoring her confidence and allowing her to enjoy her favorite afternoon chats with family.
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. Sandra Pojtek:
- How is dental health connected to my overall health, like my heart?
- Dr. Pojtek'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 just healthy teeth, but also 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 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. Pojtek can recommend special rinses, gels, and other strategies to manage dry mouth and protect your 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. Pojtek will visually inspect your mouth and throat for any unusual sores or discolorations and gently check 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 a cap or helmet that covers the entire tooth. Crowns are used for more extensive damage, like cracks or after a root canal, to provide extra strength and protection.
- 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 crowns, bridges, or full dentures, preventing slipping. This is a great investment in restoring chewing ability and confidence.
- 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 lacks the protective enamel. Years of brushing can also wear down enamel. Dr. Pojtek can recommend desensitizing toothpastes, fluoride treatments, or check for other issues like cavities or cracked teeth.
- 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 removable and clips onto your existing teeth. A bridge permanently fills the gap, while a partial denture is an appliance that you remove for cleaning.
- Is it normal for my gums to bleed when I brush or floss?
- Healthy gums do not bleed. Bleeding is often the first sign of gum inflammation (gingivitis), which can progress to more serious periodontitis if not treated. Dr. Pojtek can help create a gentle home care routine and perform a professional cleaning to reverse this.
3877 US Highway 301 S
Riverview FL 33578
Phone: (813) 630-4079
Dr. Sandra Pojtek, 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): 1801291893
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. Sandra Pojtek 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.