Geriatric Dentistry

Find Dental Care At Every Age

Maintain a Healthy Smile for Longer With Geriatric Dentistry in Durango

Geriatric dentistry in Durango addresses aging-related changes in your oral health with patience and care. As you get older, your smile may feel different. Teeth seem more sensitive, or dentures don't fit as well as they once did. Even medications can take their toll, leaving your mouth dry and more vulnerable to cavities.

Our team will take time to understand your health, your medications, and what concerns you most. Then we build a plan to restore and protect your oral health. With our help, you can enjoy life's best moments, from good meals to laughing with friends. Our team makes each visit efficient, clear, and as comfortable as possible.

a man wearing glasses
a man wearing glasses

Protect Your Smile Through Life's Changes

Personalized care can help you keep eating comfortably and smiling confidently as you age.

Gum disease becomes more common as you get older. Infections in your gums have been linked to heart disease, diabetes, and other conditions. Keeping your gums healthy supports your whole body.

Dry mouth is another concern. Saliva protects your teeth, so less of it raises your risk of decay.

Routine dental exams also include checks for oral cancer, which becomes more common with age. Early detection makes a big difference.

Physical changes can also make home oral hygiene harder. We can suggest equipment like electric toothbrushes, floss holders, and water flossers to make your daily care easier. Small adjustments help you keep your mouth clean and healthy at home.

a man sleeping on a bed
a man sleeping on a bed

Get Senior Dental Care Built Around Your Needs

Our goal is simple. We want you to eat, speak, and smile with ease at every stage of life. Each visit starts with a review of your health and medications.

We offer cleanings, gum disease treatment, and conservative repairs to protect your natural teeth. If you've lost teeth, we offer custom dentures, dental implants, and implant dentures. Oral sedation is available if dental visits make you anxious.

For dry mouth, your dentist will share ways for you to stay comfortable and protect your enamel.

We also coordinate with your medical team when needed. Some health conditions and medications affect bleeding, healing, or how certain treatments should be done.

Knowing your full picture helps us keep you safe. If you bring a family member or caregiver, we'll make sure they understand your care plan, too.

Choose San Juan Smiles for geriatric dentistry in Durango, CO. Let us help you protect your smile for years ahead!

Read Why Our Patients Love Us

Always friendly and professional. All the staff display a high level of competence and they invest in the latest technology.

Ron T.

Staff are always friendly, competent and personable. A great experience for all things dental. I would highly recommend Dr. Lacey and his office.

Frank R.

So glad I made the switch to SJS! The team is great, friendly and welcoming. I love the accomadation off early morning appointments. My hygenists is efficient and thourough!! I am usually great with names-so sorry...

Great team, clean facility and definately A+ care!!!

JD C.

Gratitude to all who work here and help the process feel smooth and inviting! Great receptionist, hygienist, and Dr. Very thankful to have found a great dentist practice in Durango!

Dylan M.

Dr. Lacey and staff are terrific. Had the best teeth cleaning in a long time on my last visit and the recent one as well.

John P.

Friendly and thorough!

Kristi M.

Phenomenal experience! Dr. Lacey and his staff are very competent. Extremely comfortable environment with staff always checking up on you. Overall a great experience. I highly recommend this dental practice. State of the art equipment with Dr. Lacey’s expertise is a great combination. I am...
Phenomenal experience! Dr. Lacey and his staff are very competent. Extremely comfortable environment with staff always checking up on you. Overall a great experience. I highly recommend this dental practice. State of the art equipment with Dr. Lacey’s expertise is a great combination. I am thrilled about my new teeth and have received many compliments!

Ulivi A.

Did a great job with my cleaning - got rid of some yucky stains ! Staff and Dr Lacey and Dr sewell are all so friendly, kind and gentle …

Milly L.

Kiffany is fantastic and thorough! Dr. Lacey is so kind and gentle.

Amy R.

Everyone was so friendly - from the receptionists to the dental hygienists to the dentist. GREAT quality professional care provided!

Michelle B.

Frequently Asked Questions About Geriatric Dentistry

How often should older adults see the dentist? 

Older adults should usually see the dentist every six months. Some may need more frequent visits if they have gum disease, dry mouth, or many restorations. Your dentist will recommend a schedule based on your needs.

Why do my teeth feel more sensitive as I get older? 

Teeth can feel more sensitive as you get older because gums recede and enamel wears down. This exposes softer parts of the tooth. Toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth, gentle brushing, and treatments from your dentist can help.

Do I need to see a dentist if I wear full dentures? 

You still need to see a dentist if you wear full dentures. Your dentist checks the fit, looks for sore spots, and screens for oral cancer. Your jaw changes over time, so dentures may need adjustments to maintain the fit.

Why does my mouth feel dry as I get older?

Your mouth may feel dry as you get older because many common medications reduce saliva. Certain health conditions can also play a role. Dry mouth raises your risk of decay. Sipping water, chewing sugar-free gum, and using products from your dentist can help.

Can older adults get dental implants? 

Older adults can get dental implants in many cases. Age alone doesn't rule you out. What matters most is your overall health and bone density. Your dentist will review your medical history and take a 3-D scan to determine whether implants are a safe option.