General Dentistry In Jacksonville, FL

Building Beautiful Smiles,
One Visit at a Time.

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Modern general dentistry encompasses far more than routine cleanings and basic dental exams. Today’s comprehensive dental services integrate advanced technology, preventive strategies, and personalized treatment planning to maintain optimal dental health throughout your lifetime. The foundation of exceptional dental office care lies in establishing a trusted relationship with a practice committed to providing top-tier care for the entire family.

At Distinctive Dentistry by Mullens & Nguyen, we provide unparalleled comprehensive general dentistry for Jacksonville patients who value quality care and outstanding results. Our state-of-the-art dental office combines Dr. Mullens’ uncompromising dedication with Dr. Nguyen’s artistic precision, creating an environment where exceptional dentistry meets gentle, genuine patient care. We strive to ensure every member of your family, from children to adults, receives the personalized attention they deserve.

Why Choose Distinctive Dentistry by Mullens & Nguyen for General Dentistry?

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Quality Chairside Time with the Dentists

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Experienced team with keen eyes for detail

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Custom-tailored dental services for all ages

Comprehensive Dental Examinations

Your oral health journey begins with a thorough examination using the latest diagnostic technology. Our comprehensive approach includes digital X-rays, intraoral cameras, and the DIGIDOC cavity detection system to identify potential issues before they become painful or costly problems. These advanced dental exams help us address your dental needs while considering your dental insurance coverage options.

Our Sirona CBCT imaging provides three-dimensional views of your teeth, jaw, and surrounding structures, allowing us to detect conditions that traditional X-rays might miss. This advanced technology ensures accurate diagnoses and enables our dental assistants and doctors to create personalized treatment plans tailored to achieve your confident smile goals.

During your examination, we evaluate not only your teeth and gums but also your bite alignment, jaw function, and overall oral health patterns. This comprehensive assessment helps identify connections between your dental health and general wellness, ensuring you receive gentle care that addresses your whole-body health with the expertise you deserve.

Advanced Preventive Care

Prevention remains the most effective approach to maintaining optimal oral health. Our preventive dental services extend beyond traditional cleanings to include oral cancer screenings using OralID technology, gum disease assessment, and personalized home care recommendations. We strive to provide peace of mind through proactive care for patients of all ages.

Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup in areas your toothbrush cannot reach, while our dental assistants and hygienists provide education on proper brushing and flossing techniques. For children and adults alike, we customize preventive care protocols based on individual needs, whether you visit every six months or require more frequent maintenance appointments.

For patients at higher risk for cavities or gum disease, including many children, we may recommend additional protective measures such as antimicrobial rinses, prescription-strength fluoride treatments, or more frequent professional cleanings. Our experienced team ensures each patient is treated with personalized attention to maintain optimal oral health.

Restorative Solutions

When dental problems do occur, our restorative treatments focus on preserving your natural tooth structure while providing durable, aesthetically pleasing results. We offer tooth-colored fillings, dental crowns, bridges, dentures, and other restorative options using the latest materials and techniques. For more complex cases requiring oral surgery or root canals, our comprehensive approach ensures seamless care.

Our CEREC same-day crown technology allows us to create and place custom crowns in a single appointment, eliminating the need for temporary restorations and multiple visits. This convenience means reduced wait time and the ability to restore your smile’s function and appearance without disrupting your busy schedule in the Jacksonville area.

For advanced restorative needs, including root canals and surgical procedures, our comprehensive approach may include teeth whitening options or dental implants to fully restore both function and aesthetics. We coordinate all aspects of your care under one roof to ensure seamless treatment and optimal outcomes from first contact through completion.

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Stop hiding your smile – achieve the stunning transformation you deserve with cosmetic treatments and flexible monthly payment plans.

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Comfort-Focused Technology for Gentle Care

We understand dental anxiety affects many patients, particularly during emergencies or complex procedures like root canals. That’s why we’ve invested in technology and techniques designed to maximize your comfort. Our soft-tissue laser allows for precise, minimally invasive treatments with reduced bleeding and faster healing times, providing gentle care even during surgical procedures.

The Wand system provides virtually painless localized anesthesia, making injections more gentle than traditional methods. This technology is particularly beneficial for children experiencing their first dental visits and adults with dental anxiety. Combined with our relaxing office environment and caring team approach, these technologies help ensure your dental experience provides peace and comfort.

Our commitment to patient comfort extends to our scheduling flexibility, minimal wait time, and comprehensive communication about treatment options, finances, and insurance coverage. We believe every patient deserves a good experience that builds confidence in dental care. Looking forward, we continue investing in technologies that enhance patient comfort.

Stop hiding your smile – achieve the stunning transformation you deserve with cosmetic treatments and flexible monthly payment plans.

Personalized Treatment Planning

Every patient receives individualized attention and customized treatment recommendations based on their unique oral health concerns, aesthetic goals, and lifestyle considerations. Our experienced team never applies a one-size-fits-all approach to dental services. We strive to understand each patient’s specific needs and preferences.

Dr. Mullens, an American College of Dentists Fellow and member of the Academy of General Dentistry, collaborates with Dr. Nguyen and Dr. Petrie to ensure you receive the most appropriate care. Their combined expertise and complementary skills allow them to address even complex dental challenges effectively, from routine care to emergency treatments.

We take time to explain your treatment options, discuss the benefits and considerations of each approach, and help make informed decisions about your oral health care. Whether you need root canals, cosmetic enhancements like teeth whitening, or comprehensive restorative work, our great staff is always available to answer questions and provide support throughout your treatment journey.

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What Cosmetic Dental Service is Right for Me?

When it comes to cosmetic dentistry, most people are typically trying to accomplish one or more of three things: whiter teeth, straighter teeth, or differently shaped or sized teeth. Dr. Mullens and Dr. Nguyen can help assist you with your possible options to achieve these goals. Your recommended treatments may include:

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Cosmetic Dental Bonding – This treatment is ideal for small changes such as reshaping damaged teeth or covering visible flaws. It is typically among the most affordable treatments, but the results may only last up to five years.

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KöR At-Home Teeth Whitening– At home whitening can be done from anywhere and is mid-range in terms of cost. It’s a great treatment for patients looking to brighten their smile faster and more effectively than with over-the-counter whitening products.

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Veneers – These can be a bit more expensive, but they are very versatile and can change many aspects of your smile in just one treatment. They can even last up to 20 years with proper care and maintenance.

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Metal Free Dental Crowns – If you have dark, metal crowns or fillings, Dr. Mullens and Dr. Nguyen can replace them with durable, tooth-colored restorations that work well and blend seamlessly into your mouth.

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Gum Recontouring - This treatment can help reshape your teeth, so they look larger, and your smile appears less “gummy”.

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Botox / Dermal Fillers- An excellent way to fill in or relax fine lines and wrinkles that can last for months. These treatments look natural and require minimal downtime (just a few hours).

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Cosmetic Dentistry Can Be an Investment Worth Making

While cosmetic dentistry does seem like a big financial commitment, it can also be a valuable investment in your self-esteem. If you feel self-conscious about your smile or signs of aging on your face, these treatments can be an amazing improvement in your self confidence and self-esteem. This in turn can lead to better relationships, an improved social life, and more confidence to accomplish your professional goals, too!

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How to Make Cosmetic Dentistry Affordable

While purely aesthetic dental care is not covered by dental insurance, there are often other options available to help make these treatments more budget friendly.

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CareCredit– This independent financing program can make your treatment more affordable by splitting up the overall cost into smaller, budget-friendly payments.

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Specials– At Distinctive Dentistry by Mullens & Nguyen, we run periodic specials on cosmetic treatments, including professional whitening.

If you’re interested in learning more about your cosmetic dentistry options, please contact us to schedule a consultation with Dr. Mullens or Dr. Nguyen. They can help craft a treatment plan that will transform your appearance in a way that achieves your smile goals and best suits your budget. We can also go over your financial options at this time.

Is Cosmetic Dentistry Safe?

Yes, cosmetic dentistry is generally safe when performed by a qualified and experienced dentist. Procedures such as teeth whitening, veneers, crowns, and bonding have been practiced for many years, and advancements in techniques and materials continue to enhance their safety and durability. However, as with any medical or dental procedure, there can be risks. It’s crucial that you communicate with us about their medical history, expectations, and concerns. Potential side effects or complications can often be minimized by following post-treatment care guidelines.

Does Cosmetic Dentistry Hurt?

Cosmetic dentistry encompasses a variety of procedures, and modern advancements have made these treatments more comfortable than ever. Many procedures, like teeth whitening, are typically pain-free, while others, like veneers or crowns, have been refined to maximize patient comfort. Dental professionals prioritize the well-being of their patients, using state-of-the-art technology and anesthetics to ensure a pleasant experience. While slight sensitivity or a brief period of adjustment might follow some treatments, these sensations are often temporary and mild. Always communicate with us about any concerns, as we are equipped to make your cosmetic dentistry journey as comfortable as possible.

Is Cosmetic Dentistry Covered by Insurance?

Cosmetic dentistry primarily focuses on improving the appearance of one’s smile, rather than addressing essential health concerns. As a result, many insurance companies categorize cosmetic procedures as elective and often do not cover them. However, there are exceptions. Some treatments, like crowns or certain types of fillings, may be both aesthetic and functional in nature, leading to partial or full insurance coverage. Coverage varies by provider, policy, and specific procedure. If considering cosmetic dentistry, it’s essential to review your insurance policy or speak directly with your insurance provider to understand what’s covered and any associated out-of-pocket costs.

How Do I Know If I Need Cosmetic Dentistry?

Determining the need for cosmetic dentistry is often a mix of personal desire and professional advice. If you’re self-conscious about your smile due to stained, chipped, misaligned, or missing teeth, cosmetic dentistry might be a solution to enhance your appearance and confidence. It’s not only about aesthetics; some cosmetic procedures also address functional issues. The best approach is to consult with us. We can provide a thorough examination, discuss your goals and concerns, and recommend treatments that align with your aspirations. Remember, the decision is personal; it’s about how you feel and what changes you wish to see in your smile.

Experience the Distinctive Difference with Distinctive Dentistry by Mullens & Nguyen

With hundreds of five-star Google reviews and recognition as top-rated Jacksonville dentists, our practice stands apart through our commitment to sincere, great care and uncompromising results. New patients experience the difference personalized attention makes from their first contact with our office. Our brand-new facility at our convenient location features the latest technology, while our hand-selected great staff creates a welcoming, family-oriented environment where every patient is treated like family.

 

We believe exceptional dentistry starts with genuine connections, and our patient family experiences the difference top-tier care makes every day. From walking patients to their cars after appointments to calling to check on comfort following procedures, including emergency visits, we go above and beyond expectations. Our comprehensive dental services for the entire family ensure everyone receives the personalized, gentle care they deserve. To schedule your comprehensive dental examination and experience distinctive dentistry for yourself, call 904-399-3163 or request an appointment today.

Frequently Asked Questions About General Dentistry

What should I expect during a dental checkup and cleaning at Distinctive Dentistry?

Each check-up and cleaning should begin with a patient’s 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. Our Jacksonville team uses advanced technology, including digital X-ray systems, as part of our comprehensive dental care in Jacksonville, FL. Our digital imaging includes both intraoral X-rays for detailed tooth examination and panoramic X-rays for comprehensive jaw and sinus evaluation. This thorough approach allows us to detect problems early and create personalized treatment plans to maintain your optimal oral health.

Commitment to a solid at-home oral hygiene regimen is essential to prevent common oral health issues, like tooth decay and gum disease. That said, your dental care regimen is ultimately incomplete if you don’t come to our Jacksonville dental office twice a year for a dental checkup and teeth cleaning. Even with excellent home care, professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar that regular brushing can’t reach. These biannual visits also allow us to detect potential problems early when they’re easier and less expensive to treat.

Yes, we understand that dental anxiety affects patients of all ages. We want to help our patients who feel fearful keep their oral health on the right track without having a traumatic experience, which is why we offer multiple forms of sedation dentistry in our Jacksonville, FL dental office. Whether you’re seeking sedation for a routine cleaning or planning a more complex procedure, our experienced team provides personalized sedation options with affordable monthly payments through Cherry financing. We’re committed to making every dental visit comfortable and stress-free.

Office Hours

8:00 am – 5:00 pm
8:00 am – 5:00 pm
8:00 am – 5:00 pm
8:00 am – 5:00 pm
8:00 am – 11:30 am

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.