Dr. Michael Zerivitz, DDS

Dr. Michael Zerivitz, DDS is a Preventive Dentistry specialist dedicated to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive Preventive Dental care at his clinic in Deltona, FL. Registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), he serves as your primary partner in lifelong oral health. General Preventive Dentistry emphasizes creating personalized plans to prevent cavities and gum disease, coordinating necessary screenings, and managing your overall wellness to ensure optimal oral and systemic health. He is committed to providing this vital care to all ages.

Dr. Z, as he is affectionately known, brings over 30 years of experience to his practice, having graduated from the University of Maryland School of Dentistry and served as a US Naval Dental Officer in Orlando before establishing his practice in Deltona. His commitment to patient care extends beyond the clinical setting. He has lectured extensively, authored publications in dental journals, and volunteered his time and expertise in numerous community initiatives, including health fairs, free dental screenings, and donations to needy families and underprivileged communities in the US and abroad. This dedication to public service, coupled with his artistic talents as a photographer, has earned him numerous accolades, including a Kodak Gallery Award and multiple Photographer of the Year awards. Dr. Michael DDS is currently welcoming new patients to begin their proactive health journey. Call (386) 574-5201 to schedule. Consultations are also offered in Spanish.

A key part of the WePrevent mission is building your personalized prevention roadmap. Dr. Michael DDS is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on proactive strategies to protect and enhance your long-term health.

By working together, you and Dr. Michael DDS can create a clear, actionable plan to address your unique risk factors and health goals.

A proactive approach to health involves understanding and managing potential risks. Dr. Michael DDS provides expert care for a range of conditions, focusing on early detection and effective management to support your long-term wellness. Common areas of focus include:

• Broken Tooth: Preventing a broken tooth from becoming a bigger problem starts with protecting your teeth from injury through habits like wearing a mouthguard during sports and avoiding hard candies. Early intervention is key.
• Cavity: Cavities are preventable! Practicing good oral hygiene and regular dental visits are key to protecting your teeth from decay and maintaining your overall oral health.
• Chipped Tooth: A chipped tooth, even a small one, can be a sign of underlying issues and should be checked by a dentist to prevent infection or further damage.
• Gingivitis: Managing gingivitis effectively, through professional cleaning and at-home care, reduces your risk of developing more severe gum disease.
• Grinding of Teeth: Unmanaged teeth grinding can result in cracked teeth, jaw pain, and even headaches; regular dental visits and potential use of a night guard can prevent these complications.
• Gum Disease: Protecting your gums from disease involves practicing good oral hygiene and visiting your dentist regularly for professional cleanings to reduce your risk of gum problems.
• Tooth Abscess: A tooth abscess is a painful infection at the root of a tooth, highlighting the importance of regular dental checkups for early detection and prevention of serious complications.
• Tooth Loss: Preventing tooth loss starts with regular dental checkups and good oral hygiene to catch problems early and avoid major issues down the line.
• Toothache: Ignoring a toothache can lead to more serious problems like gum disease or the need for extensive dental work, emphasizing the value of prompt treatment.

This list highlights some common health concerns and is for informational purposes only. The best way to understand your personal health and create a prevention plan is to schedule a consultation. Accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans are developed based on individual patient evaluations.

Taking proactive steps is central to long-term health. Dr. Michael DDS offers a range of key preventive screenings and services designed to provide crucial insights into your health and support your well-being:

• Composite Fillings: Composite fillings offer a safe and effective way to restore teeth damaged by decay, safeguarding your overall oral health and preventing complications.
• Dental Bridge: Protect your overall oral health and prevent further complications by choosing a dental bridge to fill the gaps where you're missing teeth.
• Dental Crown: To safeguard your oral health, a dental crown can be used to strengthen a weakened tooth, preventing future infection or the need for more extensive dental work.
• Denture Repair: Denture repair ensures your dentures fit comfortably and function properly, preventing further oral health issues like sores and jaw pain.
• Root Canal: Protecting your overall oral health, a root canal treatment addresses severe tooth decay or injury, relieving pain and preventing the need for an extraction.
• Ultrasonic Dental Cleaning: An ultrasonic dental cleaning provides a deep clean, removing stubborn plaque and tartar that contribute to cavities and gum disease, helping you stay ahead of potential problems.
• Laser Maxillary Frenectomy: A laser maxillary frenectomy is a simple procedure that can improve the health of your gums and teeth by addressing a tight frenulum (tissue connecting your upper lip to your gums), potentially preventing future gum problems.

Service availability can change, and not all services listed may be appropriate for every patient. For a comprehensive understanding of all available services and to create your personalized screening plan, please schedule a consultation.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Preventive Dentistry Services in Florida.

Dr. Michael DDS is dedicated to partnering with Dental Caregivers to achieve their unique health objectives. The following examples illustrate how a proactive approach can make a tangible difference in a Patient's life:

• By understanding proper oral hygiene and protective habits, a family proactively prevented a potential broken tooth from becoming a larger dental issue, gaining peace of mind about their oral health.
• By scheduling regular dental checkups and diligently practicing good oral hygiene, a family significantly reduced their risk of developing cavities, enjoying a healthier and more confident smile.
• A young woman noticed a small chip in her tooth and, following a preventive dentistry's advice, scheduled a checkup. Early detection allowed for prompt treatment, preventing further damage and potential infection.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results may vary and depend on many factors specific to each patient. He will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.

Here are answers to some common questions about proactive Preventive Dental care with Dr. Michael DDS:

How often should I visit the dentist for a check-up and cleaning?

At Dr. Michael DDS, we recommend visiting every six months for a check-up and cleaning. This crucial preventive care removes tartar buildup that brushing can't, helps detect cavities early, and screens for gum disease and oral cancer.

Why are routine dental cleanings so important for prevention?

Even with excellent brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into tartar that only a professional cleaning can remove. This is crucial for preventing cavities and gum disease, which is linked to other health problems like heart disease.

How is oral health connected to my overall health?

Oral health is intrinsically linked to overall health. Chronic gum inflammation, or periodontitis, has been linked to an increased risk of serious conditions like heart disease, stroke, and poorly controlled diabetes. Maintaining a healthy mouth through preventive dental care is therefore essential for maintaining overall body health.

When should my child first see a dentist?

Dr. Michael DDS recommends a child's first dental visit within six months of their first tooth erupting, or by their first birthday. This early visit is crucial for ensuring proper tooth development and establishing a positive dental home for future care.

What is the difference between gingivitis and periodontitis?

Gingivitis is an early, reversible stage of gum disease characterized by red, swollen gums that may bleed easily. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more serious stage where the bone supporting the teeth is damaged, potentially leading to tooth loss.

What are dental sealants, and who should get them?

Dental sealants are a thin, protective plastic coating applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth. They're a powerful preventive tool, especially for children and teenagers, sealing out food and plaque to help prevent cavities from forming in the deep grooves of the teeth.

What causes tooth sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity can be caused by worn enamel, receding gums exposing the tooth root, or tiny cracks in the teeth. A proper diagnosis by Dr. Michael DDS is needed to determine the specific cause and recommend effective treatments, such as desensitizing toothpaste or in-office procedures.

Do you perform oral cancer screenings?

Yes, an oral cancer screening is a routine and important part of every dental check-up. Dr. Michael DDS will visually inspect the lips, tongue, gums, and entire mouth for any abnormalities, as early detection is key to successful treatment.

916 Deltona Blvd
Deltona FL 32725
Phone: (386) 574-5201

Dr. Michael Zerivitz, 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): 1982752317

Registration can typically be verified through The Florida Board of Medicine website or by direct inquiry.

The information on this profile, provided by weprevent.org, is for general informational purposes and to help you connect with preventive health partners. It does not constitute direct medical advice from the physician named. Preventive Dentistry Services like Dr. Michael DDS are skilled in helping patients create proactive health plans. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. It is always recommended to maintain open communication with your preventive dentistry about all aspects of your health and your personalized prevention plan.