Dr. Todd Shockley, DMD is a General Dentist practicing at our Keystone Heights, FL clinic, dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive dental care for older adults. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices in accordance with Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). Dr. Shockley understands the unique oral health needs of individuals 65 years and older, recognizing that maintaining optimal oral health is crucial for 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. Shockley's approach to care emphasizes a collaborative, evidence-based model, creating a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. He is committed to providing exceptional care and is currently welcoming new patients. Please call (352) 473-0707 to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Todd Shockley, DMD is a dentistry practitioner in Keystone Heights, FL. He is accepting new patients, focusing on comprehensive dental care tailored to the needs of seniors. His practice prioritizes open communication and collaboration with other healthcare professionals to support the best possible outcomes. Dr. Shockley provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-provider partnership. Dr. Todd Shockley is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Shockley 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, proactively managing age-related issues like dry mouth and gum disease. His approach prioritizes collaboration with other healthcare providers, ensuring a holistic view of your loved one's overall well-being.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Todd Shockley can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- BlueDental Choice & Choice Plus DPPO
- DentalGuard Preferred
- Elite Plus DPPO
- Florida Blue
- Guardian
- MetLife
- MetLife PDP
- PDP Plus (Preferred Dentist Program) DPPO
- United Concordia Dental
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Todd Shockley 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:
- Clicking of Temporomandibular Joint: Experiencing clicking in your jaw joint? This could be TMJ, and your dentist can provide solutions like splints or other therapies to relieve pain and restore normal jaw function, making eating and speaking easier.
- Orofacial Pain: Experiencing persistent pain in your mouth or face? It could be orofacial pain, and a visit to your dentist can lead to effective treatment and improved comfort.
- Tooth Damage: Whether it's a small chip or a significant fracture, your dentist can assess the damage and create a personalized treatment plan to restore your teeth's function and appearance.
- Alveolar Bone Loss: Alveolar bone loss means the jawbone supporting your teeth is thinning, often linked to gum disease or aging; thankfully, dentists can address this through various treatments, improving your oral health and confidence.
- Oral Motor Problems: Oral motor problems can be frustrating, making simple tasks like eating and talking more difficult, but your dentist can work with you to develop solutions to maintain your ability to enjoy meals and communicate effectively.
- Crooked Teeth: Crooked teeth, or misaligned teeth, can sometimes make it harder to clean your teeth thoroughly, leading to potential gum problems, but thankfully, your dentist can discuss options like braces or aligners to straighten them and improve your oral health.
- Leukoplakia: Sometimes, painless white patches appear in the mouth; this is called leukoplakia, and your dentist can assess it to ensure it doesn't pose a risk.
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. Todd Shockley offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Bite Adjustment: By finely adjusting your bite, your dentist can prevent future dental problems and improve the longevity of dental work such as crowns and bridges.
- Implant-Supported Crown: As part of a comprehensive dental care plan, an implant-supported crown provides a natural-looking and long-lasting solution for missing teeth.
- Dental Anesthesia: Dental anesthesia ensures comfort and pain-free procedures during dental work, making it easier for seniors to receive necessary care.
- Dental Hygiene Services: Through cleanings and check-ups, dental hygiene services play a crucial role in managing oral health issues like dry mouth, protecting seniors from more serious conditions.
- Biopsy: To create a complete and accurate care plan, your dentist may recommend a biopsy to examine a suspicious area in your mouth for signs of disease.
- Teeth Whitening: Teeth whitening can brighten your smile and boost your confidence, enhancing your overall well-being as part of a comprehensive dental care plan.
- Maxillofacial Surgery: As part of a comprehensive oral health plan, maxillofacial surgery can help resolve structural problems affecting teeth and surrounding areas.
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. Todd Shockley 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 custom-fitted splint and gentle therapies, a senior citizen found relief from the persistent clicking in their jaw, allowing them to once again savor the joy of chewing their favorite foods without discomfort.
- A senior woman, plagued by persistent orofacial pain, found significant relief after seeing a dentist. She was able to enjoy meals and smile without discomfort, improving her overall quality of life.
- With improved tooth function and a restored smile, a senior couple enjoyed their favorite activity of sharing meals with family again, without discomfort or embarrassment.
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. Todd Shockley:
- How is dental health connected to my overall health, like my heart?
- Dr. Shockley'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 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. Shockley can recommend special rinses, gels, and other strategies to manage dry mouth and protect your 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 needed when a tooth is severely damaged, cracked, or has had a root canal, providing extra strength and protection.
- What is the difference between a bridge and a partial denture?
- A dental bridge is a permanent, fixed appliance cemented to your teeth, while a partial denture is a removable appliance that clips onto your teeth.
- 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 dentures, and preventing slippage. This is a great investment in restoring chewing ability and confidence.
- How should I be cleaning my dentures properly?
- To keep your dentures clean, remove and rinse them after each meal. Use a soft denture brush and non-abrasive cleaner on all surfaces daily. Gently brush your gums, tongue, and mouth roof, and soak your dentures overnight in denture solution or water.
- 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. Years of brushing can also wear down the enamel. Dr. Shockley can recommend desensitizing toothpastes, fluoride treatments, or check for other issues like cavities or cracked teeth.
- 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 (gingivitis), which can progress to periodontitis. This is often reversible with professional cleaning and improved daily oral hygiene; Dr. Shockley can help create an effective and gentle home care routine.
260 S Lawrence Blvd Ste 102
Keystone Heights FL 32656
Phone: (352) 473-0707
Dr. Todd Shockley, 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): 1194919779
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. Todd Shockley 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.