Dentist – Jacksonville, FL

Experience

the

Heart, art and science:
dentistry as it should be.

Meet Our Dental Team

WELCOME TO

Distinctive Dentistry

by MULLENS & NGUYEN

Experience uncompromising dental care.

Since 1991, the soul of our dental office has been rooted in a constant dedication to serve our nearby dental patients with uncompromising dental care.

With patients, this means giving our undivided attention, creativity, and expertise. It means treating patients as unique individuals with specific needs and desires. We choose to go above and beyond in little, huge ways; like calling our patients after procedures, walking them to their cars, greeting them by name, remembering what they respond well to, reaching out with empathic care when they go through loss and grief, and celebrating their successes and joys in a spirit of familial union.

In our clinical work, it means that our dentists in Jacksonville provide unparalleled technical performance using innovative dental approaches with focused meticulousness, whether you’re coming in for a routine checkup, state-of-the-art dental implants, or urgent treatment from our emergency dentist near you.

Within our team, we take care of each other and support each member to set themselves up for success. Our collective aim is to thrive and consistently exceed expectations.

Join us, and experience Distinctive Dentistry!

Jacksonville’s Dentists

Where care
and innovation intentionally meet.

  • Imagine truly enjoying a visit to the dentist’s office

  • Unparalleled dentistry in a personal, family environment

  • Dr. Mullens’ uncompromising dedication and expertise

  • Dr. Nguyen’s artistry, creativity, and precision

  • Grounded in positivity, sincerity, confidence, and boldness

  • Feel truly cared for and excited about your own potential

Our Core Values

Experience the

Distinctive Dentistry Difference

Anything But Standard

We believe a real smile starts with the caring connection between two people. We help our patients in your area discover their best smile by providing the highest level of personal care and
uncompromising results. Expect warm, genuine smiles – unmatched attention to detail – and unrivaled
quality.

Uncompromising
Dental Care

At your dental visit, we take the proper time. We listen, learn, and strive to understand your unique concerns while providing a comprehensive health exam and evaluation. Our goal is to deliver great quality dental care the first time, and every time, to ensure a lifetime of great health.

Safe, Clean,
Comfortable

We understand the dental office might not be your favorite place. That is why we’ve custom-designed our dental office near you to be serene, modern, and fresh. Best of all, our world-class dental team is trained in the latest CDC, OSHA, and ADA guidelines to ensure your safety.

Real care, real smiles.

Smile with love for your family, with passion for your career, with confidence for your date… smile for life.

BEFORE
AFTER

“I got used to feeling shy and uncomfortable with my smile, sometimes even completely hiding it. I consulted a few dentists, and they didn’t really know how to help me or didn’t seem to care. Dr. Mullens was so houghtful, knowledgeable, and creative. Now, instead of hiding my teeth, my smile is
my default!”

BEFORE
AFTER

“I’ve been going here forever, since I was picking toys out of the treasure chest. They always exceed my expectations. The staff is so friendly, and they break down every step, so you understand the treatment and its cost. The confidence I feel in my smile has helped me so much in my life and work. I can’t imagine going anywhere else!”

BEFORE
AFTER

“Over the years, I’ve had general upkeep as well as serious discomfort and esthetic issues with my teeth. After looking for a dentist I could trust, I’m so happy I found Drs Mullens and Nguyen, as well as their whole team. The treatments I’ve received going there have transformed the quality of my life. I feel a strength and comfort I thought was lost.”

“I’ve been going to Dr. Mullen’s and his team for over 29 years. Dr. Mullens is so patient and makes himself available to me whenever I need. When I was a struggling single mom, they always took care of me and my son. It was never about the money, and they never refused service. After my son’s accident, Dr. Mullens would call and check on him multiple times.”

Real care, real smiles.

Success Stories

Top-Rated Jacksonville Dentist

Your friendly, state-of-the-art neighborhood dentist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Your first step in getting emergency dental care is to call Distinctive Dentistry by Mullens & Nguyen as soon as possible and let one of our staff members assist you. If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, call 911 immediately.

Most hospital emergency rooms, mobile ERs, and urgent care clinics are not equipped to handle dental emergencies, and thus if you go there, you are not likely to be treated.

In most cases, you can expect a same-day appointment with us, but please call the office and let our team help you.

Dental emergencies are often an indication that you have larger dental problems lurking. They are an important sign that it’s time to get back into the habit of regularly visiting the dentist. This can help prevent future emergencies, saving you time, money, and of course, your smile!

The first step in finding the best place to get dental work done is to first determine what it is you’re looking for. Usually, this is a combination of things like welcoming your insurance, practice location, dentist credentials, safety and cleanliness standards, and hours of operation.

Additionally, it’s important to know what kind of dental care you need, whether it be someone who is comfortable treating children, can perform major restorative work, offers cosmetic dentistry treatments, or simply who can provide routine check-ups and cleanings, as certain dentists are better suited to specific types of care.

Finally, it’s important to get a good feel for the practice. At Distinctive Dentistry by Mullens & Nguyen, we pride ourselves on offering personalized, stress-free care, and we’ve got the reviews to prove it. In fact, we’re proud to share them with you. While you’re here, take a look at our dentist bios, too, so you can get a better understanding of who we are and how we can help you care for your oral health.

The cost of a dental check-up and cleaning can vary depending on geographic location and the dental health of the individual patient.

Each check-up and cleaning should begin with a patient health history, as well as a discussion of your questions and concerns. It should also include a thorough examination by your dentist, a professional cleaning, X-rays, and an oral cancer screening.

The average cost of this type of appointment in markets across the United States is between $200 and $350. If you have dental insurance, the fees for your check-up and cleaning (including out of pocket co-payments) are negotiated with us by your insurance company.

All dentists in the United States must have earned either a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) or a Doctor of Dental Sciences (DDS) from one of the nation’s 67 Accredited dental schools.

Acceptance into dental school requires the student to have earned a bachelor’s degree with very high grades in a math or science heavy major. Dental school is a three-year program which combines classroom and hands-on learning.

Following graduation, some dentists choose to continue their education by earning one of twelve specializations recognized by the American Dental Association (ADA). These programs require an additional three or more years of dental school training.

Finally, all dentists are required to complete a minimum amount of continuing education hours annually to keep their dental license active.

Dental Insurance & Financing

How We Make Quality Dentistry Affordable

Interested in addressing advanced tooth loss head-on with modern dentures? Want to transform your smile with cosmetic dentistry? Maybe you’re looking for a dentist close by for your six-month checkup. Whatever the case may be, the cost shouldn’t stand in your way. In addition to welcoming most dental insurance plans, we work with trusted third-party financiers, like CareCredit, to offer flexible monthly payments. Every step of the way, we will do our part to make understanding the cost of dental care stress-free!

Finding Our Dental Office Near You

We Look Forward to Seeing You Soon!

Refreshing cleanings, top-notch restorative dentistry, and beautiful porcelain veneers are just a few of the many ways we help patients smile! Our dental office is conveniently located at 3215 Hendricks Ave #1 in Jacksonville, right off Phillips Hwy. As a result, we are a great fit for patients near and far, including those looking for a dental office near San Marco or a dentist near Riverside! We’re near the Hendricks Ave. and Felch Ave. intersection, across from The Antique Fox with Southern Grace antique store. If you have any trouble finding us, don’t hesitate to get in touch!

Maureen | From Hiding to Shining

“Now instead of hiding my teeth, my smile is my default!

Over the years I got used to feeling shy and uncomfortable with my smile, sometimes even completely hiding it. I consulted a few dentists and they didn’t really know how to help me or didn’t seem to care. Dr. Mullens was so thoughtful, knowledgeable and creative. Now instead of hiding my teeth, my smile is my default! I don’t think I would have met my husband without the confidence and joy from this smile makeover.

I can’t find the words to explain how kind, generous, and thoughtful everyone is. You can’t pay people to be that friendly and attentive.

Over the years I got used to feeling shy or uncomfortable to smile, sometimes completely hiding my teeth. I consulted a few dentists and they didn’t seem to really care or know how to help me. Dr. Mullens was so thoughtful, knowledgeable and creative. I can’t find the words to explain how kind, generous and thoughtful everyone at his once is.

Now instead of hiding my teeth, my smile is my default! I don’t think I would have met my husband without the joy and confidence I feel since my smile makeover. Simply put, I feel more…me!

Roger | Lifelong Confidence

“I’ve been going to the office (DDMN) forever I can’t imagine going anywhere else!”

I’ve been going to the once (DDMN) forever, since I was picking toys out of the treasure chest. As an adult I kept going because from general things to bigger issues I feel so confident that they’ve always got my back and they always exceed my expectations.

The staff is so friendly and they break down every step so you understand the treatment and it’s cost. The confidence I feel in my smile has helped me so much in my life and work. I can’t imagine going anywhere else!

Woody | My Rejuvenated Life

“I feel a strength and comfort I thought was lost.”

Over the years I’ve had general upkeep as well as serious discomfort and esthetic issues with my teeth, and after looking for a dentist I could trust I’m so happy I found Dr’s Mullens, Nguyen and their whole team. The treatments I’ve received going there (DDMN) have transformed the quality of my life. I feel a strength and comfort I thought was lost.

I drive nearly an hour one way for the quality of care and service the once provides. I guarantee you won’t find another once that is so friendly, smiley, patient, and just overall wonderful and caring. The results are worth the drive! Woody is replacing “Phillip” currently on there. Main photo and pop-up photo sent and labeled.

Paulette | Family Full of Smiles

“As a single mom, I trust them (DDMN) with my whole family”

I’ve been going to Dr. Mullen’s and his team for over 29 years. Dr. Mullens is so patient and makes himself available to me whenever I need it. When I was a struggling single mom they always took care of me and my son, it was never about the money and they never refused service. After my son’s accident he (Dr. Mullens) would call and check on him multiple times.

Dr. Mullens is “the king of teeth”! My smile is on point and I’m so grateful to be able to take my family to such a wonderful environment and get awesome results, every time.

Something Stuck Between the Teeth

If you have any food debris or an object stuck between your teeth, don’t try to remove it with a toothpick or any sharp objects, as this could damage your gums. Typically, gently flossing around the tooth and rinsing your mouth with saltwater can help dislodge it. However, if you’re not having any luck, you can also give our office a call. Our dental hygienists have all of the necessary tools to safely remove the debris.

Jaw Pain

Is Jaw Pain a Dental Emergency? Lockjaw, jaw tension, and pain are just a few of the many different types of jaw pain. If your discomfort is chronic, our team can help you determine the underlying cause of it and refer you to a specialist if necessary. However, if your pain is a result of an impact, visit your local emergency room.

How You Should Handle Jaw Pain: Our team is happy to provide you with further guidance over the phone if you’re unsure of where to go for help. You can place an ice pack on the outside of your face to relieve any discomfort.

How We Treat Jaw Pain: If you believe your jaw is broken, dislocated, or damaged due to trauma, visit your local ER immediately. If it’s a reoccurring issue, our team can help you determine best next steps for finding relief after conducting an examination.

Injury to the Gums, Lips, or Tongue

Is an Injury to the Gums, Lips, or Tongue a Dental Emergency?  If your oral injury doesn’t stop bleeding after 10 minutes, you may need to go to the emergency room. Or, if you’re conflicted about what to do, give our office a call and our team can help.

How You Should Handle an Injury to the Gums, Lips, or Tongue: Oral wounds can bleed a lot, and when the blood mixes with the saliva, it can make the injury look a lot worse than it is. You can stop the bleeding by using a clean washcloth or piece of gauze and pressing it against the cut. A cold compress can help to reduce any swelling that may occur.

How We Treat Injuries to the Gums, Lips, or Tongue: Our team typically doesn’t see patients for injuries. If you require stitches or the bleeding doesn’t stop within 10 minutes of placing pressure on it, visit your local emergency room.

Loose Permanent Tooth

Is a Loose Permanent Tooth a Dental Emergency? If your tooth is wiggling in its socket or partially dislodged, try to get to our office as soon as possible to prevent any further damage. If you’re experiencing pain, our team can provide you with first aid guidance over the phone.

How You Should Handle Loose Permanent Teeth: Avoid touching your tooth and eating any foods (especially those that are chewy or sticky), and rinse your mouth with lukewarm saltwater to remove any debris and cleanse the area. Avoid flossing or brushing your teeth until you’re able to see us.

How We Treat Loose Permanent Teeth: If your tooth has become partially dislodged due to impact, our team may be able to salvage it and see if the roots are able to re-fuse with the bone. In the case that your tooth can’t be saved, we may recommend an extraction and replacement with a dental implant or bridge.

Broken Denture

Is My Broken Denture a Dental Emergency? Whether your denture has broken to the point of it being unwearable or it just has a crack, you should never wear a damaged prosthetic. It can lead to irritation of the oral tissues in addition to jaw discomfort. If you have existing teeth and try to wear your damaged denture, it could also harm those teeth. Call our office immediately so our team can assess your prosthetic.

How You Should Handle a Broken Denture: Although your local department store likely sells a denture repair kit, do not try to superglue or repair your own dentures. The best option in this scenario is to see a professional as soon as possible.

How We Treat Broken Dentures: Our team will examine your dentures and see if we’re able to repair them. If they’re damaged beyond repair, we can start the process of replacing them for you.

Lost Filling or Crown

Is a Lost Filling or Crown a Dental Emergency? Yes, both of these situations warrant an immediate call to our Jacksonville dental office. That way, we can repair or replace your restoration as quickly as possible.

How You Should Handle a Lost Filling or Crown In addition to reaching out to us to schedule an appointment, we recommend not eating anything crunchy, hard, or sticky. Additionally, keep your restoration somewhere safe, like a small, clean container.

How We Treat Lost Fillings or Crowns There are some cases where we can re-cement your restoration back in place, like if your dental crown is relatively new and in good condition. Other times, our only option is to replace your dental crown or filling with a new one.

Knocked-Out Tooth

Is My Knocked-Out Tooth a Dental Emergency? Since this dental injury can cause a significant amount of pain and there is only a small window of time where we can save your tooth (about 60 minutes), the answer is “yes!” So, don’t hesitate – contact our Jacksonville dental team right away to schedule an emergency appointment.

How You Should Handle a Knocked-Out Tooth Calling us is an important first step. This ensures that we can schedule an appointment for you with one of our dedicated emergency dentists right away. Plus, it allows us to guide you through the process of preserving the root of your tooth – whether that’s by placing it back in its socket or putting it in a clean container filled with milk.

How We Treat Knocked-Out Teeth Fortunately, a knocked-out tooth can sometimes be saved. If that’s not the case for some reason – like you weren’t able to find your tooth – then we will instead begin the process of replacing it with a dental bridge or implant so the look, health, and function of your smile are restored.

Very Sensitive Teeth

Are Very Sensitive Teeth a Dental Emergency? Very sensitive teeth can be a dental emergency. That’s why it’s important to consider how long you’ve been experiencing symptoms and if they are present in tandem with others, like pain when biting down.

How You Should Handle Very Sensitive Teeth There’s really only one thing you can do until your appointment: try to avoid things that could exacerbate your discomfort. In other words, don’t drink anything really hot, don’t eat anything really cold, and take OTC pain medication as directed on the label (if needed).

How We Treat Very Sensitive Teeth That depends on what’s causing your dental sensitivity. If it’s a cavity, then it’s likely that a tooth-colored filling or dental crown is the answer. If it’s an infection in your gums, then gum disease treatment is needed instead.

Cracked Tooth

Is a cracked tooth a dental emergency? Cracked teeth are considered dental emergencies and you’ll need to visit your emergency dentist as soon as possible. Leaving your tooth untreated can allow it to be vulnerable to further damage and bacteria. Before the situation worsens, schedule an appointment with our team so we can determine the best way to address your tooth.

How you should handle a cracked tooth: Refrain from chewing on that side of your mouth, otherwise you could end up disturbing your injured tooth. Take over-the-counter pain relievers to minimize discomfort. You can also rinse with saltwater to keep your tooth bacteria-free. If you notice any sharp or jagged edges on your tooth, you can use dental wax or sugar-free gum to protect your soft oral tissue.

How we treat cracked teeth: We’ll examine your cracked tooth to determine the cause of the situation as well as the proper treatment for it. If the crack is minor, then we can typically address it with composite resin to improve and strengthen your tooth. For more severe damage, you may require a dental crown to repair the structure and prevent future discomfort. If the tooth cannot be saved, then we’ll likely have to extract it and replace it with something else, such as a dental bridge, partial denture, or dental implant.

Chipped Tooth

Is a chipped tooth a dental emergency? Chipping your tooth isn’t always considered an urgent dental situation, so it isn’t the end of the world if you don’t get it treated right away. That said, leaving it exposed to bacteria for too long can lead to problems later on. Before the situation can become worse, it’s best to visit your dentist for help.

How you should handle a chipped tooth: Until you’re able to see us for treatment, be sure to avoid chewing on that side of your mouth. Be gentle when brushing your teeth and gums, and don’t hesitate to use dental wax to cover up any rough or sharp edges you might notice. This can help you prevent harming your cheeks or other soft oral tissue.

How we treat chipped teeth: Chipped teeth can typically be treated by using composite resin to repair and improve them. However, if the damage is more visible and toward the front of your smile, then veneers might be the longer-lasting solution you’re looking for.

Toothaches

Is my toothache a dental emergency? Toothaches can be due to various reasons, some of which might not be particularly urgent. Even so, this can sometimes be an indication of a more serious dental emergency, such as an oral infection. That’s why it’s best to visit your dentist sooner rather than later so that they can address the underlying problem before it grows.

How you should handle a toothache: Rinse your mouth with saltwater to sanitize the area, dislodge any stuck objects between your teeth, and help alleviate any discomfort. You can also take over-the-counter pain medications to further minimize the aching.

How we treat toothaches: Our team will need to thoroughly evaluate your smile to determine the root cause of your toothache. If it’s due to periodontal issues, then we’ll provide gum disease treatment. Other procedures to get rid of your toothache might involve root canals or tooth extractions, if necessary. We’ll be sure to walk you through your options before moving forward with any treatment.