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Dr. Rifat Falak

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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. Geriatric dentistry is dental care designed for older adults. She spent 19 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

  1. 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.

  2. Step 2: A gentle, thorough check-up

    She examines the teeth, gums, mouth and any dentures, and explains what she finds in plain words.

  3. 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.

  4. Step 4: Short, comfortable visits

    Where possible, care is split into shorter appointments with breaks, so nobody feels rushed or tired.

Getting there

Dr. Rifat sees patients at two clinics in 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?

Choose the clinic that is easier for you. Tell us a little about the patient, and we will find the right time.

The message we'll open for you to send

Hello, I'd like to book an appointment with Dr. Rifat at your chosen clinic.

Patient's age:

Any mobility needs (e.g. wheelchair):

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