Geriatric Dentistry from Dentistry of Bethesda
As a dentist with lots of experience working with special needs patients, Dr. Spencer Hornstein understands the unique needs of older individuals. Oral health issues associated with the normal aging process require special attention, and geriatric patients might need to receive dental care in an office equipped to provide wheelchair access and other similar provisions. Dentistry of Bethesda fits the bill, offering geriatric dentistry services that take your needs to heart.
Oral Health Issues for Geriatric Patients
The oral health issues commonly faced by older individuals include periodontal disease, ill-fitting dentures, root damage, and missing teeth. Dr. Hornstein provides care for all of these issues, including comprehensive restorative dentistry services such as dental fillings, periodontal therapy, endodontics, and tooth replacement options. Because older patients require such a wide range of care options, Dentistry of Bethesda provides an excellent place to receive your geriatric dentistry care—Dr. Hornstein and his team offer a number of specialty care options, allowing you to see one dentist for every need. We rarely refer patients to other practices.
Geriatric Patients with Special Needs
Older patients often require special attention because of non-dental health problems as well. If you use a wheelchair, we offer operatories equipped with movable dental chairs. Typically, dental chairs are bolted to the floor. Ours can be moved, allowing you to stay in your wheelchair while receiving your treatments if transferring to the dental chair is not an option. Senior patients often experience health problems as a natural byproduct of aging, and Dr. Hornstein is equipped to handle any health situation. He can provide optimal dental care to patients with chronic diseases such as Parkinson’s, Lou Gehrig’s, or lupus, as well as stroke victims, paraplegics, and quadriplegics. Treating patients with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia is another specialty of Dr. Hornstein’s, and he treats every patient who comes into his office with the same level of dignity and respect.
If you are an older patient in need of dental care, we encourage you to consider Dentistry of Bethesda. We want you to receive care from someone who understands your needs and believes that you can have optimal oral health throughout your entire life.
Benefits of Geriatric Dentistry at Dentistry of Bethesda
- Comprehensive care tailored to the unique needs of older adults
- Convenient access with wheelchair-accessible operatories and movable dental chairs
- Broad range of treatments available under one roof, reducing the need for multiple referrals
- Expertise in managing oral health alongside chronic medical conditions
- Compassionate care for patients with cognitive disorders like Alzheimer’s and dementia
Tips for Maintaining Oral Health as You Age
- Maintain regular dental visits for checkups and cleanings
- Practice gentle but thorough brushing and flossing daily
- Report any changes in denture fit, tooth sensitivity, or pain promptly
- Manage systemic health conditions with your healthcare providers to support oral health
- Stay hydrated and avoid tobacco products to protect gum health
What to Expect During Your Geriatric Dental Visits
- Thorough assessment of your oral health with attention to age-related conditions
- Personalized treatment plans addressing both dental and medical complexities
- Use of accessible equipment and comfortable accommodations
- Coordination with your other healthcare providers if needed
- Patient-centered communication tailored to your needs and preferences
Experience the Difference
Dentistry of Bethesda provides compassionate, personalized dental care for all members of your family, including those with special needs. Contact Bethesda dentist Dr. Spencer Hornstein today at (301) 530-2700 to schedule your consultation. We happily treat patients from Silver Spring, North Bethesda, Rockville, Chevy Chase, Potomac, and the surrounding areas.
Important Questions About Geriatric Dentistry at Dentistry of Bethesda
1. What types of dental issues are common in older adults?
Older adults frequently experience periodontal disease, ill-fitting dentures, root damage, and missing teeth, which require specialized care.
2. How does Dentistry of Bethesda accommodate seniors with mobility challenges?
Our office features movable dental chairs and wheelchair-accessible operatories so patients can receive care comfortably, whether transferring or remaining in their wheelchair.
3. Can Dr. Hornstein treat geriatric patients with chronic health conditions?
Yes, Dr. Hornstein provides expert dental care for patients with Parkinson’s, Lou Gehrig’s disease, lupus, stroke, dementia, and other complex health issues.