Dr. Yesenia Drake, DDS is a General Dentist dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive dental care for older adults, 65 years and older, at Bonita Dental Arts in Bonita Springs, FL. She is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). 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. Drake is committed to understanding the unique needs of seniors and strives to create a supportive and welcoming environment for her patients.
Dr. Drake received her professional degree in Doctoral Dental Surgery at El Bosque University in Bogota, Colombia, and completed her General Practice Residency as Chief of Dental Residents at Berkshire Medical Center. She maintains a strong commitment to continuing education, evidenced by her participation in courses such as Aesthetics Continuum. Contemporary Aesthetic Techniques, Crown Lengthening and Soft Tissue Management, and the use of Zimmer, Ankylos and OsteoReady Implant Systems, as well as Nitrous Oxide, Endodontic- Hybrid Approach and WaveOne systems. She is an Invisalign Clear Essentials Premier Provider. Dr. Drake is a dedicated partner in the health journeys of her patients, emphasizing integrity, commitment, and passion in her care. Her mission is to listen to each patient and provide high-quality, comprehensive treatment that enhances both their oral health and confidence. Dr. Drake resides in the Bonita Springs area with her husband, daughter and dog, Winston. She provides consultations primarily in English and is currently welcoming new patients. Please call (239) 900-9705 to schedule an appointment.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-provider partnership. Dr. Yesenia Drake is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Drake is a compassionate partner in your senior's health journey, providing comprehensive dental care tailored to their specific needs. She expertly manages age-related dental issues, prioritizing the overall well-being of each patient. Her approach emphasizes collaboration with other healthcare providers to ensure a holistic and personalized plan for maintaining optimal oral and general health, promoting comfort and independence.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Yesenia Drake can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Advantage Plus PPO
- Aetna
- Ameritas
- Ameritas PPO
- Dental
- Dental DPPO
- Dental Network of America
- Dental Network of America DPPO
- Dental PPO
- DentalGuard Preferred
- Guardian
- Humana
- Humana PPO
- MetLife
- MetLife PDP
- Principal Financial Group
- Total Dental Administrators PPO
- Total Dental Administrators PPO PPO
- United Concordia
- UnitedHealthCare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Yesenia Drake 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:
- Mouth Conditions: From simple toothaches to more complex problems like dentures that don't fit well, various mouth conditions can impact daily life; regular dental checkups are crucial for early detection and treatment to maintain oral health and reduce discomfort.
- 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.
- Tooth Damage: Tooth damage, such as chips, cracks, or cavities, can be repaired by your dentist to prevent further problems and help you eat comfortably.
- Tooth Loss: Tooth loss, a common concern as we age, can be managed effectively with various replacement options like dentures, bridges, or implants, improving chewing, speaking, and overall confidence.
- Sensitive Teeth: Sensitive teeth, a common issue as we age, cause sharp pain when eating or drinking hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods, but your dentist can help manage this discomfort with treatments like fluoride applications or desensitizing toothpaste.
- Gingivitis: Gingivitis, a common gum problem, causes redness, swelling, and sometimes bleeding in your gums; regular dental checkups and good oral hygiene can prevent it from worsening.
- Loose Teeth: If your teeth feel loose, don't worry a visit to the dentist can help determine the cause and provide solutions to improve comfort and prevent further problems.
- Chipped Tooth: Experiencing a chipped tooth can be concerning, but your dentist can assess the damage and recommend the best treatment to protect the tooth from further harm and restore its function.
- Cavity: A cavity is a small hole in a tooth due to decay; quick treatment with a filling or other restoration by your dentist will safeguard your oral health and help you maintain a comfortable, confident smile.
- Receding Gums: Receding gums can make eating and smiling less comfortable, but with regular dental check-ups and possibly some simple procedures, you can protect your teeth and maintain your smile.
- Dental Injury: Falls or accidents can cause dental injuries in older adults, but prompt treatment from your dentist can minimize pain and prevent infection, helping you maintain your independence and overall well-being.
- Bad Taste in Mouth: A persistent bad taste in your mouth can be bothersome, but your dentist can help identify the cause, whether it's poor oral hygiene, a medical condition, or even certain medications, and recommend ways to improve it.
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. Yesenia Drake offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Amalgam Dental Fillings: Regular dental visits and, if necessary, the use of amalgam fillings as a restorative treatment, can play a critical role in preventing more serious dental problems in the future.
- Dental Cleaning: Regular dental cleanings are a key part of your overall health plan, allowing your dentist to detect early signs of gum disease or oral cancer.
- Dental Crown: A dental crown is a cap placed over a damaged tooth to restore its shape, strength, and appearance, helping maintain your smile and ability to eat comfortably.
- 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.
- Dental Implant: To address missing teeth and enhance your quality of life, dental implants provide a secure, natural-looking replacement that improves your ability to eat and smile with confidence.
- Root Canal: Root canal treatment is a vital part of preserving your natural teeth, preventing the need for more extensive procedures like extractions.
- Teeth Extraction: As a preventative measure, removing a tooth that's beyond repair can prevent the spread of infection to neighboring teeth or other areas of the body.
- Teeth Whitening: Professional teeth whitening helps remove stains and discoloration, revealing a healthier-looking smile and contributing to improved oral hygiene.
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. Yesenia Drake 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 improved oral health, a senior couple rediscovered the joy of sharing meals together, laughing and enjoying each other's company without the discomfort of mouth conditions.
- After simple exercises and lifestyle changes guided by a dentist, a senior couple reported a significant reduction in jaw clicking, allowing them to comfortably enjoy their favorite pastime of playing cards with friends.
- With improved oral health, a senior couple rediscovered the joy of sharing meals together, savoring each bite with renewed confidence.
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. Yesenia Drake:
- How is dental health connected to my overall health, like my heart?
- Dr. Drake's practice emphasizes the critical link between oral and systemic health. Bacteria from chronic gum disease can enter the bloodstream, potentially increasing the risk for heart disease, stroke, and poorly controlled diabetes. Regular dental care is therefore essential for maintaining overall health and wellness, not just healthy teeth.
- 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 problem. Saliva is the body's natural defense against cavities, so dry mouth significantly increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Dr. Drake can recommend special rinses, gels, and other strategies to manage dry mouth and protect 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 even full dentures and preventing slipping. This is 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 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 removable for cleaning and eating.
- How should I be cleaning my dentures properly?
- To properly clean your dentures, remove and rinse them after eating. 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.
- 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 enamel, making the root more vulnerable. Dr. Drake can recommend desensitizing toothpastes, fluoride treatments, or check for other issues that may be causing the sensitivity.
- What is involved in an oral cancer screening?
- An oral cancer screening is a quick, painless, but vital part of every routine dental exam. Dr. Drake 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.
- Is it normal for my gums to bleed when I brush or floss?
- No, healthy gums should not bleed. Bleeding when brushing or flossing is usually the first sign of gum inflammation (gingivitis), which can progress to more serious periodontitis if left untreated. This is often reversible with a professional cleaning and improved daily oral hygiene, and Dr. Yesenia Drake can help create an effective and gentle home care routine.
Bonita Dental Arts
25000 Bernwood Dr
Bonita Springs FL 34135
Phone: (239) 900-9705
Dr. Yesenia Drake, 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): 1164758413
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. Yesenia Drake 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.