Dr. Thomas Bailey, DMD is a General Dentist dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive dental care for older adults at his clinic in Ocala, FL. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). Dr. Bailey understands the unique dental needs of individuals 65 years and older, recognizing that oral health is intrinsically linked to overall well-being.
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. Bailey is committed to this collaborative, evidence-based approach, creating a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. He is a dentistry practitioner in Ocala, FL, and prospective patients should call (352) 687-2354 to confirm if he is currently accepting new patients.
Dr. Thomas Bailey strives to be a trusted partner in the health journey of his patients. He is dedicated to providing high-quality dental care with a focus on patient comfort and understanding. While Dr. Bailey provides consultations primarily in English, his compassionate nature and commitment to clear communication ensure all patients feel supported.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-provider partnership. Dr. Thomas Bailey is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Bailey 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 age-related issues like dry mouth and gum disease while collaborating closely with other healthcare providers to ensure optimal oral and overall well-being. His personalized approach prioritizes each patient's comfort and independence, creating a supportive environment for a positive and healthy experience.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Thomas Bailey can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Sun Life Financial
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Ameritas
- Ameritas PPO
- Anthem
- BlueDental Choice & Choice Plus DPPO
- Cigna
- Connection Dental
- Connection Dental PPO
- Delta Dental
- 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
- 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. Thomas Bailey 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:
- Teething: Although we don't typically think of 'teething' in adulthood, problems with dentures or new dental implants can cause similar pressure and discomfort; a dentist can address these issues to make eating and speaking easier.
- Orofacial Infection: Many mouth and facial infections respond well to antibiotics or other treatments prescribed by your dentist, helping to manage pain and restore your oral health and confidence.
- Clicking of Temporomandibular Joint: A clicking sound in your jaw joint, called the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), is a common issue that your dentist can help manage with simple exercises and lifestyle adjustments, improving chewing and talking comfort.
- Burning Mouth Syndrome: Burning mouth syndrome causes a painful burning sensation in the mouth, impacting your ability to enjoy food, but with your dentist's guidance, relief and improved quality of life are achievable.
- Cleft Lip: Surgery to repair a cleft lip is usually performed in infancy but may require further dental interventions later in life to address any associated issues.
- Canker Sore: Canker sores, those annoying little mouth ulcers, can be treated with over-the-counter remedies to soothe the pain and promote faster healing, and your dentist can provide guidance on appropriate treatment.
- Cleft Palate: Cleft palate, a condition present from birth, involves a gap in the upper mouth's roof, potentially affecting speech and swallowing; however, specialized treatment can significantly improve these issues over time.
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. Thomas Bailey offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Maxillofacial Surgery: This specialized surgery helps manage conditions impacting jaw alignment and facial structure, contributing to improved oral health and overall well-being in later life.
- Tooth Preparation for Dental Crown: Preparing a tooth for a crown is a crucial step in protecting a weakened or damaged tooth from further decay and ensuring a long-lasting restoration.
- IV Sedation: IV sedation allows dentists to perform longer procedures on seniors with ease, leading to more comprehensive and thorough dental care.
- Dental Cleaning: Preventative dental cleanings help maintain a healthy mouth, enabling you to enjoy eating and smiling comfortably, enhancing your quality of life.
- Upper Dentures: Upper dentures address tooth loss, a common issue in seniors, allowing for easier eating and a healthier diet, contributing to their well-being.
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery: Oral and maxillofacial surgery plays a crucial role in resolving severe dental problems, often improving the success of other dental treatments in seniors.
- 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.
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. Thomas Bailey 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 struggling with discomfort from new dentures, a senior was able to enjoy a delicious meal with her family again, a cherished tradition.
- After struggling with a painful mouth infection, a senior was able to enjoy their favorite meals again without discomfort, regaining their appetite and a sense of well-being.
- After simple exercises and dietary adjustments guided by a general dentist, a senior woman found chewing and talking much easier, regaining her enjoyment of meals with her family.
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. Thomas Bailey:
- How is dental health connected to my overall health, like my heart?
- Dr. Bailey's practice emphasizes the critical link between oral and overall 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 only healthy teeth but also overall 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. Bailey 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. Bailey 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 bridge and a partial denture?
- A dental bridge is a fixed, permanent replacement for missing teeth, cemented to your existing teeth. A partial denture is a removable appliance that clips onto your teeth to fill in the gaps.
- 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 a non-abrasive cleaner to clean all surfaces daily. Gently brush your gums, tongue, and mouth roof, and soak your dentures overnight in a denture solution or water.
- Is it normal for my gums to bleed when I brush or floss?
- Healthy gums do not bleed. Bleeding when brushing or flossing is usually the first sign of gum inflammation, which can progress to more serious gum disease. Dr. Bailey can help create a gentle home care routine and perform a professional cleaning to reverse this.
- 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. Bailey can recommend desensitizing toothpastes, fluoride treatments, or check for other issues like cavities or cracked teeth that could be causing the sensitivity.
- My dentures don't fit as well as they used to. What can be done?
- Changes in jawbone and gum shape over time can loosen dentures. A relining procedure can reshape the denture's underside for a better fit, or a new denture can be created if the current one is significantly worn. A proper fit is crucial for comfortable eating and speaking.
9277 SE Maricamp Rd
Ocala FL 34472
Phone: (352) 687-2354
Dr. Thomas Bailey, 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): 1497854871
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. Thomas Bailey 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.