Cosmetic Dentistry – Jacksonville, FL

Get a Dazzling Smile You Feel
Proud Showing Off

Over the years, your smile can begin showing signs of aging. Whether it’s a result of accidental trauma like chipping a tooth by falling or dental discoloration caused by certain medications you’re taking, we have treatments to help restore the beautiful and youthful appearance of your grin. Drs. Mullens and Nguyen want their patients to have a smile that boosts their confidence and that they feel proud of, which is why they custom-tailor each cosmetic treatment to fit their patient’s needs. To schedule a consultation to discuss enhancing the appearance of your grin with cosmetic dentistry in Jacksonville, FL, contact our dental office today!

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

Quality Chairside Time with the Dentists

Dentists with Keen Eyes for Detail

Custom-Tailored Cosmetic Treatments

Porcelain Veneers

Dental veneers are an excellent procedure for patients who have several types of imperfections littering their smile, but don’t want to have to receive multiple treatments. It’s a one-stop-shop for gaps, chips and cracks, discoloration, and even slight misalignment. The veneers are made to fit over the visible surface of individual teeth to conceal imperfections and reveal a bright, symmetrical, and complete row of teeth in their place. They’re also made from dental porcelain, which is a stain-resistant, durable dental material that can be customized to be virtually indistinguishable from your natural tooth enamel.

Metal-Free Dental Crowns

If you have an outdated metal crown that you’d like to have replaced because it’s the first thing people notice about you when you smile or laugh, we’ve got you covered. We offer high-quality, customized dental crowns crafted from zirconia, ceramic, or other materials that are biocompatible and blend in with the rest of your grin.

Cosmetic Dental Bonding

Do you have dental damage that makes you self-conscious about smiling? Simple, fast, and cost-effective cosmetic bonding can help restore the missing portion of your tooth, close a gap between teeth, or even conceal severe discoloration. The process involves our team adhering biocompatible composite resin to the damaged portion of your tooth to restore its structure. In most cases, we’re able to complete the treatment within a single, hour-long appointment.

KöR At-Home Teeth Whitening

Are you tired of wasting your money on store-bought teeth whitening kits that make huge promises but never seem to deliver noticeable results? Our professional KöR at-home teeth whitening kit uses a special, highly effective Tri-Barrel Hydremide® Peroxide formula and customized whitening trays to provide even, lasting, and fast results. Whether your teeth are stained due to eating certain foods or taking medications like tetracycline, this effective treatment can provide you with amazing results!

Gum Recontouring

When you look at your smile in the mirror, do you feel like your healthy teeth are completely overshadowed by pink gum tissue? Gummy smiles are a common cosmetic imperfection that many patients come to us wanting to treat. With gum recontouring, we’re able to alter the smile line to show more of your dental structure by removing overgrown tissue. We use a soft tissue laser to complete this process, which eliminates the need for a scalpel and sutures.

Virtual Smile Design

If the one thing that’s standing in your way of investing in cosmetic treatment is the fact that you won’t be able to see the results of the procedure until after they’re permanent, then you’ll love virtual smile design. This is a special software that we use to build a digital, 3D model of your mouth. We can alter it according to the treatments you’re looking to have done so you can see what your smile will look like afterward, before you ever commit to the procedure, making it feel like less of a gamble.

Botox/Dermal Fillers

You’ve got your brand-new smile, but what about the face that surrounds it? With BOTOX or dermal fillers, our team can help patients achieve a new, youthful glow! These treatments either stop the muscles that create wrinkles from moving as freely (BOTOX) or plump up the skin to alleviate the appearance of skin creases (dermal fillers). They don’t take much time at all, and the results can last for months before a follow-up appointment is needed. Let us know if you’d like to learn more!

Understanding the Cost of Cosmetic Dentistry

It’s common for many patients to be concerned about the cost of cosmetic dentistry, because in most cases it is considered elective and thus not covered by dental insurance. However, at Distinctive Dentistry by Mullens & Nguyen, our team is happy to help you navigate your needs and determine which treatments work best for your oral health goals and budget. We offer a variety of cosmetic treatments at varying price points, and we know that achieving the confidence you deserve is priceless.
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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:

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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).

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!

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.

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

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.

Cosmetic Dentistry FAQs

Cosmetic dentistry, at the intersection of art and science, offers transformative solutions for those seeking to enhance their smiles. Whether it’s the subtle refinement of tooth shape, dramatic teeth whitening, or the comprehensive overhaul of a dental makeover, cosmetic procedures have the power to rejuvenate oral aesthetics and boost self-confidence. As the demand for these treatments rises, so do the questions about their intricacies. This FAQ aims to demystify the world of cosmetic dentistry, providing clear answers for those contemplating a journey towards their ideal smile.

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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.

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.