Dr. Shannon Bennett, DMD is a General Dentist dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive Dental care for older adults at her clinic in Fort Myers, FL. Registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), she understands the unique oral health needs of those 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. Shannon Bennett is committed to a collaborative, evidence-based approach to care, creating a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions.
Dr. Shannon Bennett, DMD is a dentistry practitioner in Fort Myers, FL, offering her expertise to seniors in the community. She recognizes the importance of accessible and personalized care, striving to address the specific needs of her patient population. Her dedication to senior health extends beyond providing routine dental services, encompassing a thorough understanding of the interconnectedness of oral health and overall well-being. Prospective patients should call (239) 334-2242 to confirm if she is currently accepting new patients. Dr. Shannon Bennett provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-provider partnership. Dr. Shannon Bennett is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Bennett is a compassionate partner in your senior's health journey, offering comprehensive dental care tailored to their unique needs. She recognizes the vital link between oral health and overall well-being, addressing age-related concerns like dry mouth and gum disease while collaborating seamlessly with other healthcare professionals to provide a cohesive and supportive care plan. This personalized approach ensures optimal oral health and contributes to the senior's comfort and independence.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Shannon Bennett can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Delta Dental
- Delta Dental PPO
- Delta Dental Premier
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Shannon Bennett 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:
- Oral Pharyngeal Disorders: Changes in your ability to swallow or speak might indicate an oral pharyngeal disorder, but with a tailored care plan involving speech therapy, medication, or dietary adjustments, as directed by healthcare professionals, you can regain some ease and confidence.
- Dental Trauma: Experiencing a broken tooth or injured mouth from an unexpected event? Don't worry; prompt dental care can minimize discomfort and prevent further complications, helping you maintain your independence.
- 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.
- Facial Trauma: A facial injury might affect your smile and ability to chew, but a dentist can provide treatment, like repairing broken teeth or addressing jawbone issues, to improve your oral health and quality of life.
- Tooth Damage: Damaged teeth can cause pain and make chewing difficult, but with appropriate dental treatment, like fillings or crowns, you can restore your ability to enjoy your favorite foods.
- Infected Tooth Pulp: An infected tooth pulp, the soft tissue inside your tooth, causes severe toothache and needs prompt dental care to prevent further complications and discomfort.
- Dislocated Jaw: A dislocated jaw can make eating, speaking, and even yawning difficult; your dentist can diagnose and treat this condition, helping restore comfort and function.
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. Shannon Bennett offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Dental Gum Flap Surgery: As part of a comprehensive approach to senior dental care, gum flap surgery can effectively address deep pockets of infection, improving both gum and overall health.
- Prophy Jet Air Polishing: For seniors with sensitive teeth or those who find traditional cleaning abrasive, Prophy Jet offers a gentler, more effective way to maintain healthy teeth and gums.
- Recement of Permanent Crown: Recementing a permanent crown secures a loose crown, preventing further damage and discomfort, ensuring your smile stays healthy and functional.
- Dental Anesthesia: By minimizing discomfort, dental anesthesia helps seniors complete necessary dental work, thereby improving their overall quality of life and reducing risks of infection or pain.
- Mercury-Free and Metal-Free Filling: Mercury-free and metal-free fillings offer a safe and biocompatible way to repair cavities, protecting your overall health during your dental care journey.
- Dental Bonding: Dental bonding is a cosmetic procedure that repairs chipped or cracked teeth, improving your smile's appearance and confidence.
- Local Anesthesia: Local anesthesia allows dentists to perform more extensive treatments, such as extractions or implant placement, comfortably for older adults.
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. Shannon Bennett 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 a tailored treatment plan involving speech therapy and dietary modifications, a senior was able to enjoy more comfortable meals with family, regaining a sense of security and enjoyment in their daily life.
- After a fall that resulted in a broken tooth, a senior felt immediate relief from the pain and discomfort, enabling them to enjoy their favorite evening meal with their family again.
- After experiencing discomfort from a dry tooth socket, a senior was able to resume enjoying their favorite evening pastime of playing cards with friends, a cherished social activity.
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. Shannon Bennett:
- How is dental health connected to my overall health, like my heart?
- Dr. Bennett's practice emphasizes the critical link between oral and overall health. 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 vital for maintaining not only healthy teeth and gums, but also your overall health and 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 can significantly increase your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Saliva is your body's natural defense, so Dr. Bennett 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, yet vital part of your routine dental exam. Dr. Bennett will visually inspect your mouth and throat for any unusual sores or discolorations, and gently feel your jaw and neck for lumps. Early detection is key to successful treatment.
- 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.
- Is it normal for my gums to bleed when I brush or floss?
- No, healthy gums should not bleed. Bleeding gums are usually the first sign of gum inflammation (gingivitis), which can progress to periodontitis if left untreated. This is often reversible with professional cleaning and improved daily oral hygiene; Dr. Bennett can help create an effective and gentle home care routine.
- What is the difference between a bridge and a partial denture?
- A dental bridge is a fixed, permanent restoration that is cemented to the teeth on either side of a gap. A partial denture is a removable appliance that clips onto existing teeth to replace missing ones.
- My dentures don't fit as well as they used to. What can be done?
- Over time, the jawbone and gums naturally change shape, which can cause dentures to loosen. Dr. Bennett can reline the existing dentures to reshape the underside for a better fit, or create a new denture if the current one is significantly worn. A proper fit is essential 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 like 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.
8900 Gladiolus Dr Ste 101
Fort Myers FL 33908
Phone: (239) 334-2242
Dr. Shannon Bennett, 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): 1306967872
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. Shannon Bennett 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.