Dr. Zachary Hodgins, DMD is a General Dentist dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive dental care for older adults at his clinic in Winter Park, FL. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), ensuring patients receive the highest quality and legally compliant care. Dr. Hodgins 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. Hodgins's approach emphasizes a collaborative, evidence-based approach to dentistry, fostering a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. He is committed to helping seniors maintain healthy smiles and overall oral health, and is currently welcoming new patients. Please call (407) 647-1744 to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Zachary Hodgins, DMD is a dentistry practitioner in Winter Park, FL. He is accepting new patients and committed to providing exceptional care for individuals 65 years and older. His practice prioritizes a collaborative approach to senior health, working closely with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive well-being. Dr. Hodgins provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-provider partnership. Dr. Zachary Hodgins is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Hodgins is a dedicated partner in your senior's health journey, offering compassionate and comprehensive dental care. He understands the unique needs of older adults, proactively managing age-related dental issues like dry mouth and gum disease, and collaborating seamlessly with other healthcare providers to ensure the best possible oral and overall well-being. His approach prioritizes the individual needs and goals of each patient, fostering a supportive and reassuring environment for both the senior and their family.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Zachary Hodgins can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Cigna
- Delta Dental
- Delta Dental PPO
- Delta Dental Premier
- Dental
- Dental Advantage DPPO
- Dental PPO
- DentalConnect PPO
- DentalGuard Preferred
- Guardian
- Lincoln Financial Group
- Principal Financial Group
- Total Dental Administrators PPO
- Total Dental Administrators PPO PPO
- Total Dental DPPO
- UnitedHealthCare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Zachary Hodgins 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:
- 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.
- Dental Disorders: Maintaining good oral health is crucial for seniors as it significantly affects overall well-being, and addressing dental disorders can improve your diet, confidence, and overall quality of life.
- Tender Gums: Tenderness in your gums might indicate an underlying issue that can impact your oral health and overall well-being; your dentist can address the issue and improve your comfort.
- Swollen Gums: Swollen gums, a common issue as we age, can often be managed with improved oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, helping you keep your smile healthy and comfortable.
- Cavity: Cavities develop when bacteria break down tooth enamel, causing a small hole that can lead to toothache and potential infection if left untreated; regular dental checkups and prompt treatment keep your smile healthy.
- 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.
- Tooth Discoloration: Discolored teeth might be concerning, but many effective treatments are available. Your dentist can determine the source of the discoloration and recommend a personalized plan to restore the appearance of your teeth and improve your self-esteem.
- 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.
- Mouth Conditions: Addressing mouth conditions, whether it's preventing gum disease, fixing a chipped tooth, or getting fitted for dentures, is about more than just aesthetics; it's about ensuring you can eat, speak, and smile with confidence and comfort.
- Tooth Decay: Tooth decay, or cavities, happens when bacteria in your mouth create acids that damage your tooth enamel, leading to holes in your teeth that can cause pain and discomfort, but regular dental checkups and treatments can prevent further damage and maintain your ability to enjoy your favorite foods.
- Gum Disease: Gum disease involves inflammation and infection of the gums, potentially leading to tooth loss if left untreated; however, your dentist can provide treatments to stop its progression and maintain your oral health.
- Tooth Loss: If you've lost teeth, don't worry your dentist can help you explore different replacement options like dentures or implants, helping to restore your ability to eat, speak, and smile comfortably.
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. Zachary Hodgins offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Abscess Incision and Drainage: Incision and drainage assists in diagnosing the extent of a dental infection and guides the dentist in the appropriate course of treatment for better senior care.
- 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: Through a thorough cleaning, your dentist can assess the health of your mouth, identifying potential problems early for effective management and treatment.
- Dental Crown: If a filling isn't enough to repair a significantly damaged tooth, a crown provides a durable, long-lasting solution, ensuring your smile remains healthy and beautiful for years to come.
- 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: By removing infected tissue inside the tooth and carefully sealing the area, a root canal can resolve pain and save a tooth from requiring extraction.
- 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: As part of your routine dental check-up, teeth whitening can improve the aesthetics of your teeth, complementing other preventative measures.
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. Zachary Hodgins 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 years of discomfort from sensitive teeth, a senior was able to enjoy ice cream again without agonizing pain, thanks to a dentist's personalized treatment plan.
- With improved oral health, a senior woman regained the confidence to smile broadly and enjoy her favorite meals, enhancing her overall well-being.
- After experiencing significant gum tenderness, a senior was able to resume enjoying her favorite meals without discomfort, leading to improved overall well-being.
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. Zachary Hodgins:
- How is dental health connected to my overall health, like my heart?
- Regular dental care is crucial for overall health. Bacteria from chronic gum disease can enter the bloodstream, potentially increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and poorly controlled diabetes. Maintaining healthy gums is vital for your complete well-being.
- 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 significant 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. Hodgins can recommend special rinses, gels, and other strategies to manage dry mouth and protect your teeth.
- My dentures don't fit as well as they used to. What can be done?
- Changes in your jawbone and gums over time can cause dentures to loosen. A relining procedure can reshape the denture base for a better fit, or a new denture can be made if the current one is significantly worn. A good fit is vital for comfortable eating and speaking.
- 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 removable and clips onto existing teeth. A bridge permanently fills the space of missing teeth, whereas a partial denture is a removable appliance that replaces one or more missing teeth.
- Is it normal for my gums to bleed when I brush or floss?
- No, healthy gums should not bleed. Bleeding is often the first sign of gum inflammation, which can progress to more serious gum disease if not treated. Dr. Hodgins 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. Hodgins can recommend desensitizing toothpastes, fluoride treatments, or check for other issues like cavities or cracked 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 on all surfaces daily. Gently brush your gums, tongue, and roof of your mouth as well. 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, and vital part of every routine dental exam. Dr. Hodgins 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.
1350 Orange Ave Ste 106
Winter Park FL 32789
Phone: (407) 647-1744
Dr. Zachary Hodgins, 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): 1699840330
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. Zachary Hodgins 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.