Dr. Timothy Hope, DMD is a General Dentist dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive dental care for older adults. He practices at his clinic in Ocala, FL, and is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine, practicing under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). Dr. Hope 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. Hope 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 committed to providing high-quality, personalized care, recognizing the importance of a strong partnership between patient, family, and healthcare provider. Prospective patients should call (352) 687-2354 to confirm if Dr. Timothy Hope, DMD is currently accepting new patients.
Dr. Timothy Hope, DMD is a dentistry practitioner in Ocala, FL, dedicated to providing exceptional care for seniors. He prioritizes a patient-centered approach, emphasizing open communication and shared decision-making. Dr. Hope's commitment to comprehensive care extends beyond the dental office, ensuring a smooth and supportive experience for every patient. Dr. Timothy Hope provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-provider partnership. Dr. Timothy Hope is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Hope 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 collaborating with other healthcare professionals to ensure optimal overall well-being. His personalized approach prioritizes the individual needs and goals of each patient, fostering a trusting relationship built on understanding and support.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Timothy Hope can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Humana
- Humana PPO
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Timothy Hope 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:
- Bleeding Gums: Experiencing bleeding gums might seem minor, but it's a signal to schedule a dental visit. Early intervention often means simple treatment to keep your mouth healthy and comfortable.
- Gum Cancer: Gum cancer, when caught early, can often be successfully treated, preserving your ability to eat, speak, and smile comfortably.
- Underbite: If your lower jaw juts out beyond your upper jaw, that's called an underbite, a condition that a dentist can help manage through different treatment options for better oral health.
- Gingivostomatitis: Gingivostomatitis means inflammation in both your gums and the inside of your mouth, but with proper dental care, you can manage the symptoms and maintain your comfort.
- Chipped Tooth: Don't let a chipped tooth cause you pain or affect your ability to eat; a simple dental visit can often fix it with a filling, veneer, or crown, improving your quality of life.
- Teething: The term 'teething' can also describe the minor discomfort some older adults experience after receiving new dental implants or dentures; a dentist's assessment and adjustments will ensure comfort and functionality.
- Oral Hairy Leukoplakia: While usually not painful, oral hairy leukoplakia presents as a white, slightly raised area on your tongue, and regular dental checkups are key to ensuring it remains under control.
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. Timothy Hope offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Dental Restoration: Dental restoration procedures like fillings or crowns are essential for managing tooth decay and protecting your teeth from further harm.
- Digital X-Ray (CDR): To ensure the success of dental implants or other restorative procedures, digital X-rays give your dentist the precise information needed for accurate placement and treatment.
- Crown Lengthening: Crown lengthening can improve the success rate of dental implants by providing adequate space for proper placement and integration.
- Impacted Tooth Removal: For seniors, impacted tooth removal can be a crucial step in maintaining good oral hygiene and reducing the risk of more serious dental issues down the line.
- Denture Repair: Denture repair helps restore the proper fit and function of your dentures, improving comfort and chewing ability.
- Surgical Biopsy: A surgical biopsy is a small procedure where a suspicious area in your mouth is removed and sent to a lab to check for cancer or other diseases.
- Replacing Missing Teeth: Replacing missing teeth improves chewing ability and overall nutritional intake, contributing to better health in seniors.
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. Timothy Hope 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 a visit to the dentist, a senior woman was delighted to find that simple treatment resolved her bleeding gums, allowing her to once again comfortably enjoy eating her favorite fruits and vegetables.
- After undergoing treatment for gum cancer, a senior was able to enjoy a delicious meal with her family again, savoring the taste and texture of her favorite foods without discomfort.
- With an underbite successfully managed by a dentist, a senior woman rediscovered the joy of smiling confidently and eating her 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
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. Timothy Hope:
- How is dental health connected to my overall health, like my heart?
- Good oral hygiene, including regular dental checkups, is crucial for overall health. Bacteria from chronic gum disease can enter the bloodstream and have been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and poorly controlled diabetes. Your dental care is an essential part of maintaining your 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. Hope can recommend special rinses, gels, and other strategies to manage dry mouth and protect your teeth.
- 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. Hope can recommend desensitizing toothpastes, fluoride treatments, or check for other issues like cavities or cracked 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 a cap or helmet that covers the entire tooth. Crowns are used when a tooth is severely damaged, cracked, or has had a root canal, providing 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 a crown, bridge, or even a full denture, preventing slipping. This can be 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 permanent, fixed appliance cemented to your teeth. A partial denture is a removable appliance that clips onto your teeth. The bridge fills the gap permanently, while the partial denture is taken out for cleaning.
- How should I be cleaning my dentures properly?
- To clean your dentures properly, remove and rinse them after each meal. Use a soft denture brush and non-abrasive cleaner on all surfaces daily. Brush your gums, tongue, and mouth roof gently, and soak your dentures overnight in a denture solution or water.
- What is involved in an oral cancer screening?
- An oral cancer screening is a quick, painless, yet vital part of every routine dental exam. Dr. Hope 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.
9277 SE Maricamp Rd
Ocala FL 34472
Phone: (352) 687-2354
Dr. Timothy Hope, 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): 1659412989
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. Timothy Hope 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.