Replacing missing front teeth
- Before:
- Several upper and lower front teeth were missing or broken, leaving wide gaps that showed with every smile.
- After:
- A complete, even row of front teeth that fills the gaps and looks natural.
Dental care for older adults
Unhurried, expert dental care for people in their 60s, 70s, 80s and beyond, planned around health conditions, medicines and mobility.
Talk to us about your situation
Tell us a little about the patient when you get in touch.
Who this is for
- Loose, sore or broken teeth
- Dentures that hurt, slip or no longer fit
- Dry mouth caused by medicines
- Gum disease and bleeding gums
- Difficulty chewing or eating well
- Taking several medicines, including blood thinners
- Diabetes, heart conditions or high blood pressure
- Memory problems or early dementia
Why older adults need a different approach
As we age, our mouths change. Medicines can cause a dry mouth, old fillings wear out, gums shrink back and dentures stop fitting. Health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease or arthritis can make dental care more complicated.
Dr. Rifat holds a Master’s degree in Geriatric Dentistry from the University of Southern California, and in 2026 was conferred the title Fellow of Geriatric Dentistry by the IDA Education Academy and the Association of Geriatric Dentistry. Geriatric dentistry is dental care designed for older adults. She spent many years in hospital dentistry, treating patients whose medical needs made dental care more complex.
Keeping natural teeth for longer
Dr. Rifat’s approach is minimally invasive. Where it is safe and sensible, she repairs and protects natural teeth rather than removing them. Keeping natural teeth helps people chew, eat a varied diet and stay well. Her own research looked at how oral health affects nutrition in adults over 65.
Dentures that fit and feel right
Whether you need new dentures, a repair, or help with dentures that rub and slip, Dr. Rifat will take the time to get them right, and show you or your carer how to look after them.
Prevention, so problems don’t come back
Good daily care at home matters as much as treatment in the clinic. Dr. Rifat gives simple, practical advice to patients and carers, and you can find our caregiver guides here on the website.
What to expect
Step 1: We listen first
Dr. Rifat asks about health, medicines and daily life before she looks at the teeth. A family member or carer is welcome to join.
Step 2: A gentle, thorough check-up
She examines the teeth, gums, mouth and any dentures, and explains what she finds in plain words.
Step 3: A plan that fits the person
Treatment is planned around health, energy levels and what matters most to the patient, such as eating comfortably or smiling with confidence.
Step 4: Short, comfortable visits
Where possible, care is split into shorter appointments with breaks, so nobody feels rushed or tired.
Smile stories
Before and after, from Dr. Rifat’s own patients, shared with their consent. Original photos.
Rebuilding a smile after advanced gum disease
- Before:
- Several teeth were missing. The rest had drifted apart and were stained and decayed, with red, inflamed gums.
- After:
- Full, evenly aligned upper and lower teeth, with healthy-looking gums.
Getting there
Dr. Rifat sees patients at clinics in Mirdif and Al Nahda, Dubai. We do not offer home visits, so please tell us about any mobility needs when you book and we will plan the visit with you.
Questions families ask
Is my parent too old for dental treatment?
No. Age alone is never a reason to avoid dental care. Dr. Rifat plans treatment around a person's health and wishes, not their age.
My mother takes blood thinners. Is treatment safe?
Usually, yes. Bring a full list of medicines to the first visit. Dr. Rifat will plan safe treatment and, if needed, speak with the patient's doctor first.
Can I come into the treatment room with my father?
Yes. Family members and carers are welcome and are often a great help.
Ready to talk to Dr. Rifat?
Message her directly on WhatsApp. She replies personally.
Which clinic is easier for you?
Dr. Rifat sees patients in Mirdif and Al Nahda, Dubai.