Bringing Compassionate Dental Care
to Seniors Who Need It Most.
At Signature Dentistry in North Scottsdale, Dr. Howard Sommers is committed to improving oral health and quality of life for seniors who can’t easily travel for care.
By bringing essential dental services directly to long-term care residents, we make high-quality dentistry accessible, affordable, and comfortable for one of our most vulnerable populations.
Why Oral Health Matters for Seniors in Long-Term Care
Oral health directly impacts overall health - especially in older adults.
Studies show that maintaining good oral hygiene can reduce the risk of pneumonia, influenza, and chronic inflammation, while improving comfort, nutrition, and confidence.
Unfortunately, many seniors in nursing homes face barriers to care such as:
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Limited mobility or transportation
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Cognitive or physical challenges
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Chronic health conditions
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Fear or discomfort with traditional dental settings
Dr. Sommers believes every person deserves access to gentle, dignified dental care - no matter their age or circumstances.
“We’re not just protecting smiles - we’re protecting health, comfort, and dignity.”
– Dr. Sommers
A Preventive Approach to Senior Dental Health
Our goal is to reduce disease-causing bacteria and maintain oral comfort - without invasive treatment.
Through simple, consistent preventive care, we help residents stay healthier and happier.
Our preventive model focuses on:
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Frequent professional cleanings (ideally four per year)
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Improved daily hygiene support for residents
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Non-invasive cavity control using Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF)
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Gentle gum care and infection prevention
These treatments can often be performed right within senior residences, minimizing disruption, stress, and cost - while dramatically improving long-term health outcomes.
Silver Diamine Fluoride: A Simple, Safe Solution
Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) is an FDA-approved, non-invasive liquid that stops tooth decay without drills, shots, or discomfort.
Originally used in pediatric dentistry, it’s proven highly effective in senior care as well - especially for patients with mobility or health challenges.
Benefits of SDF for Seniors:
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No anesthesia or drilling required
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Stops active decay and prevents future cavities
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Quick, affordable, and comfortable application
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Nearly 100% effective with regular follow-ups every 3–6 months
This simple yet powerful treatment has transformed preventive dentistry for seniors, helping them avoid costly and stressful procedures.
The Signature Commitment
As a dentist who has served a large senior population for decades, Dr. Sommers brings deep understanding and compassion to every patient interaction.
His mission is to ensure that older adults - whether at home or in long-term care - receive the same level of respect, attention, and excellence as any other patient.
Through collaboration with caregivers, physicians, and facility staff, Signature Dentistry ensures seniors receive consistent, holistic oral care that supports their overall health and dignity.
Partnering With Care Facilities
Signature Dentistry partners with local nursing homes, assisted living communities, and senior care facilities to provide convenient on-site preventive dental care.
Our approach focuses on education, prevention, and comfort, reducing the need for hospital visits or emergency dental procedures.
If you manage or represent a senior living facility in Scottsdale or surrounding areas and want to improve oral health outcomes for your residents, we’d love to connect.
Call (480) 451-1215 to learn more about partnership opportunities or to schedule an on-site consultation.