Dr. Steven Schmid, DDS is a General Dentist practicing at his clinic in Merritt Island, FL, dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive dental care for older adults. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). His practice focuses on the unique dental needs of patients 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. He is currently welcoming new patients; please call (321) 459-2444 to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Schmid's commitment to senior care stems from his extensive training and experience. He grew up in Melbourne, Florida, and attended Florida State University before earning his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Michigan in 2011. Following a General Practice Residency at Loyola University Hospital, he honed his skills in treating medically compromised patients. Subsequent experience in private practice in Portland, Oregon, further solidified his expertise. His interest in dental implants, digital dental technology, and full mouth rehabilitation led him to pursue a certificate in Prosthodontics from the University of Michigan in 2017. With over 10 years of dedicated experience in dental care, he brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. Dr. Schmid is a firm believer in collaborative, evidence-based medicine, creating a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. He earned his medical degree from the University of Michigan in 2011. Dr. Schmid provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-provider partnership. Dr. Steven Schmid is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Steven Schmid is a dedicated partner in your senior's health journey, providing compassionate and comprehensive dental care. He understands the unique oral health needs of older adults, addressing issues like dry mouth and gum disease while actively collaborating with other healthcare providers to ensure a holistic approach to well-being. Dr. Schmid prioritizes a personalized treatment plan, focusing on maintaining optimal comfort and independence for each patient.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Steven Schmid can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Ameritas
Humana
Sun Life Financial
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Assurant Health
- DHA
- DHA Premier
- Dental
- DentalGuard Preferred
- Guardian
- Humana PPO
- Total Dental Administrators PPO
- Total Dental Administrators PPO PPO
- UnitedHealthCare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Steven Schmid 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:
- Cleft Lip: While a cleft lip is a condition usually identified at birth, its long-term management can involve dental professionals to ensure proper oral health and function.
- Gummy Smile (Oversized Gingiva): Having too much gum showing while smiling can be easily addressed with a consultation and minor dental procedures; it's a simple way to improve your smile's aesthetics and boost your confidence.
- Cavity: That bothersome cavity is a sign of tooth decay that needs attention; your dentist can easily fill it to stop the decay, prevent future problems, and maintain your ability to enjoy eating.
- Grinding of Teeth (Bruxism): Many older adults unknowingly grind their teeth at night, leading to headaches and jaw soreness; thankfully, your dentist can identify this and offer solutions like a night guard to alleviate these issues and preserve your teeth.
- Temporomandibular Joint Pain: Don't let jaw pain limit you; TMJ treatment, provided by your dentist, can help reduce your discomfort, allowing you to easily bite, chew, and speak clearly without worry.
- Salivary Duct Stones: Just like kidney stones, salivary duct stones form in the salivary glands and can cause significant pain and swelling, often remedied by a dental professional.
- 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.
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. Steven Schmid offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Surgical Biopsy: As part of your comprehensive dental care plan, a surgical biopsy can help your dentist determine the nature of a concerning lesion or abnormality within your mouth.
- Periodontal Exam: By identifying issues like gum disease early, a periodontal exam helps create a personalized plan to protect your oral health and maintain your smile.
- Molar Endodontics: As part of a comprehensive dental plan, molar endodontics addresses infection and pain in your molars, improving chewing function and overall oral health.
- Dental Prophylaxis: Dental prophylaxis is a preventative measure that helps maintain the health of your teeth and gums, contributing to your overall well-being as you age.
- Infuse Bone Graft: For seniors needing dental implants, an infused bone graft may be used to increase bone volume in the jaw, creating a stable foundation for the implant and improving the overall outcome.
- Single Visit Root Canals: As part of a comprehensive dental plan, single-visit root canals are an effective way to manage and resolve significant tooth infections, keeping your mouth healthy for longer.
- Digital X-Ray (CDR): Digital X-rays help your dentist monitor the progress of your treatment, whether it's managing gum disease or monitoring the health of your dental implants.
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. Steven Schmid 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 the guidance of a general dentist, a senior felt a renewed sense of confidence in their smile, allowing them to once again enjoy their favorite pastime of laughing with friends at the senior center.
- With a consultation and minor dental procedures, a senior woman regained her confidence and enjoyed smiling broadly at family gatherings again, a cherished activity.
- Grandma enjoyed her favorite crunchy apples again after the dentist filled the cavity, restoring her ability to chew comfortably and preventing further decay. Her family was relieved knowing she could maintain her healthy diet and smile with confidence.
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. Steven Schmid:
- How is dental health connected to my overall health, like my heart?
- Dr. Schmid's practice emphasizes the critical link between oral and systemic 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 essential for maintaining not only healthy teeth and gums, but 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's a dental concern. Saliva is the body's natural defense against cavities, so a dry mouth significantly increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Dr. Schmid 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, and vital part of every routine dental exam. Dr. Schmid will visually inspect your mouth and throat, and gently feel your jaw and neck for any unusual signs. Early detection is key to successful treatment.
- 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 gap, while a partial denture is a removable option to replace missing teeth.
- How should I be cleaning my dentures properly?
- To properly clean your dentures, 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.
- 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 even full dentures and 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 is less protected than the enamel. Years of brushing can also wear down the enamel. Dr. Schmid can recommend desensitizing toothpastes, fluoride treatments, or check for other issues that may be causing the sensitivity.
- My dentures don't fit as well as they used to. What can be done?
- Dr. Schmid understands that changes in jawbone and gum shape over time can cause dentures to loosen. A relining procedure can reshape the underside of the denture for a more comfortable fit, or a new denture can be created if the existing one is significantly worn. A proper fit is essential for good oral health and function, including comfortable eating and speaking.
256 McLeod St
Merritt Island FL 32953
Phone: (321) 459-2444
Dr. Steven Schmid, DDS 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): 1063702207
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. Steven Schmid 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.