Losing a tooth changes more than just your smile; it sets off a chain reaction that can affect how you eat, speak, and even how your face looks over time. When a tooth root disappears, the surrounding jawbone begins to deteriorate, neighboring teeth shift, and facial structure gradually collapses in ways that no surface-level restoration can address. Dental implants are the only tooth replacement option that stops that process entirely, replacing the root itself and restoring your smile from the foundation up.
At Distinctive Dentistry by Mullens & Nguyen, we bring over 35 years of combined clinical expertise and a deep commitment to artistry to every implant case we treat. Our San Marco practice serves patients across Jacksonville, including communities like Riverside, St. Nicholas, and beyond, offering a complete, in-house approach to replacing missing teeth that keeps your care coordinated and personal from your very first consultation. Dr. Richard Mullens, a Fellow of the American College of Dentists, and Dr. James Nguyen, whose background in fine arts sculpture brings a rare aesthetic precision to every restoration, work together to craft implant results that are both functionally excellent and visually indistinguishable from natural teeth.
Dental implants are small titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone, where they fuse with the surrounding bone through a process called osseointegration. This biological bonding creates a stable, permanent anchor that supports a custom-crafted crown, bridge, or denture on top. Because they mimic the structure of a natural tooth from root to crown, implants preserve jawbone density, maintain facial contour, and function with the same biting force as your original teeth.
Research published in a long-term clinical study via PubMed Central found strong survival rates for dental implants over follow-up periods spanning more than two decades, reinforcing their reputation as the most durable tooth replacement available. Unlike bridges or traditional dentures, implants do not rely on neighboring teeth for support, and they do not require removal for cleaning. With proper care, they are designed to last a lifetime.
Whether you are missing one tooth or an entire arch, we offer customized solutions to match your specific needs and goals.
When a single tooth is lost to injury, decay, or extraction, a single tooth implant is often the most conservative and permanent solution available. A titanium post replaces the missing root, and a custom porcelain crown is attached on top, blending seamlessly with the surrounding teeth. This approach preserves adjacent tooth structure entirely and prevents the bone loss that begins almost immediately after a tooth is lost.
When two or more teeth are missing in the same area, implant-supported bridges offer a fixed, non-removable solution that does not require grinding down healthy neighboring teeth. We can strategically place a smaller number of implants to support a bridge that spans the gap, restoring function and aesthetics without the maintenance concerns of a traditional removable partial denture.
For patients who are missing all or most of their teeth along an arch, implant-supported dentures provide the stability and permanence that conventional dentures simply cannot offer. Rather than resting on the gums, these restorations are anchored to a series of implants for a secure fit that allows you to eat, laugh, and speak without hesitation. Our team also provides comprehensive full mouth restorations for patients whose treatment needs extend across both arches or involve additional restorative work alongside implants.
Every successful implant begins with precise planning, and our Jacksonville practice is equipped with the technology to make that happen. We use our Sirona CBCT 3D imaging system to capture detailed, three-dimensional views of your jawbone, nerve pathways, and surrounding anatomy before a single incision is made. This level of diagnostic clarity allows Dr. Mullens and Dr. Nguyen to determine the optimal implant position, angle, and depth with accuracy that simply is not possible with traditional two-dimensional X-rays.
We also use The Wand, a computer-controlled anesthesia delivery system, to ensure a comfortable, pressure-free experience during implant placement. Patients who have previously avoided dental care due to anxiety frequently tell us that the precision of The Wand makes the experience far more manageable than they expected. Our state-of-the-art facility and the credentials of our dental team reflect our commitment to providing Jacksonville residents with care that meets the highest standard.
The whole process starts with a conversation. When you visit us for your consultation, we’ll take the time to discuss your goals for your smile with you, address your concerns, and answer your questions. Next we’ll examine your oral health, take some X-rays, and review your medical history to see if dental implants are a good choice for you. Some patients may need preliminary treatments like a bone graft or gum disease therapy to become good candidates. Once you’ve been given the green light, we’ll create a custom-tailored dental implant treatment plan for you moving forward.
The next step is to have your dental implants placed into your jawbone. This requires a minor but precise oral surgery, and most other practices need to refer their patients out for this step. We’re proud to save you the time, money, and hassle by offering start-to-finish dental implant treatment all right here at our Jacksonville office with a team you already know and trust. Not only do Dr. Mullens and Dr. Nguyen have advanced dental implant training, but they utilize state-of-the-art technology for computer-guided dental implant surgery to ensure you get the best possible results.
First, Dr. Mullens and Dr. Nguyen plan out your dental implant surgery via special software to precisely determine where your dental implant should be positioned. Then, a surgical guide is created from this information. On the day of your procedure, we’ll ensure you’re comfortable with dental sedation and then place the guide in your mouth. Dr. Mullens or Dr. Nguyen will make a small incision in the gums at the predetermined location, insert the implant into the jawbone, and then suture the gums closed again. Afterwards, you’ll be sent home to heal.
After your surgery, you’ll typically need a few days to a week or two to feel fully recovered. However, your jawbone continues to heal for many more months. Over the next four to six months, your dental implant integrates with the bone tissue in a natural process called osseointegration, creating a strong, solid foundation. Once that’s complete, we’ll attach a small, metal connector piece to your implant, called an abutment.
When your custom-made crown, bridge, or denture has been created, we’ll call you back to our office for the last step of the dental implant process. We’ll connect your new restoration to your implants via the abutments and check to ensure everything looks and feels right. Then, you’ll be all set to go out and show off your new smile!
The implant process unfolds over several months, allowing time for the biological fusion between the implant post and the jawbone. Your initial consultation includes a full examination, digital imaging, and a detailed review of your medical history and bone density. If your jawbone requires additional volume to support an implant, bone grafting may be recommended as a preliminary step.
Once the implant post is placed, a healing period of approximately three to six months follows while osseointegration occurs. During this time, a temporary restoration may be worn. Once integration is confirmed, an abutment is attached to the post, and your final custom restoration is secured in place. Recovery after implant surgery is typically manageable with over-the-counter medication, and most patients return to normal daily activities within a day or two. Our team provides thorough aftercare instructions and remains available throughout every stage of your healing process.
Diet: Missing teeth and ill-fitting dentures can make it difficult to eat the foods you love. However, dental implants allow you to consume your favorite delicious and nutritious foods for better quality of life and health!
Confidence: Have you stopped smiling in public settings due to your smile’s appearance? Dental implants look and feel just like natural teeth, giving you the confidence you need to show off your grin for work or family events. Plus, you’ll enjoy a boost in self-esteem.
Maintenance: Tired of taking your dentures out to clean and soak them? Or maybe you’ve been struggling with keeping the gaps in your smile clean? Dental implants can be cared for similar to your natural teeth, making it easy to keep your smile healthy and clean!
Bone health: Your teeth stimulate your jaw to maintain its health and strength. When you lose teeth, the stimulation decreases, which causes the jawbone to deteriorate over time. This leads to a sunken facial appearance and additional tooth loss. However, dental implants save your smile by stimulating the jaw to keep it from shrinking!
Dental health: Dental implants in Jacksonville help with every part of your smile. They keep your remaining teeth in place by filling spaces, lowering your risk of misalignment. Plus, they make it easier to care for your oral health, which helps you avoid cavities and infection.
Overall health: Because dental implants promote better oral health, they also help your body! Recent studies show a direct link between dental health and overall well-being, specifically with gum disease. Dental implants lower risk of gum disease to decrease your chance of developing problems like heart disease, diabetes, and more.
Predictability: Many people learn dental implants require surgery and get worried. However, this treatment has a success rate of 95% even after 10 years! This gives you peace of mind and confidence in your tooth replacement.
Longevity: Unlike dentures or bridges, dental implants can last for decades. Even more impressive, they can last for the rest of your lifetime with proper care. Just be sure to brush, floss, and visit our office regularly to keep them healthy and clean.
Cost: While dental implants tend to come with a higher cost compared to other options, they can actually help you save your money! Without the replacements dentures need every 5 to 7 years, you can avoid additional dental care and the price that comes with it.
Dental implants represent one of the most significant investments in long-term oral health available, and we believe cost should never be an insurmountable barrier to receiving excellent care. The total cost of implant treatment in Jacksonville varies depending on the number of implants needed, whether preparatory procedures such as bone grafting or extractions are required, and the type of restoration being placed. A single-tooth implant typically involves costs for the post, abutment, and crown as separate components, while full-arch solutions carry a different pricing structure.
We offer flexible financing options through both CareCredit and Cherry, with plans designed to make monthly payments manageable for a wide range of budgets. Our team provides a clear, itemized breakdown of all anticipated costs during your consultation so there are no surprises. While our cosmetic dentistry services are fee-for-service, many patients find that the durability of implants — compared to restorations that require replacement every several years — makes them the most cost-effective choice over time.
First and foremost, you may wonder if you’re able to get dental implants. Well, you’ll be happy to know almost any healthy adult is a good candidate for this method of tooth replacement! Usually, all you need to have is these three things to be considered eligible to move forward with the implant process:
Good Overall Health: Dental implant placement involves a minor procedure, meaning you must be well enough to undergo this small surgery.
Great Oral Health: Preexisting oral health issues like gum disease and cavities can compromise the success of your implants, which is why they need to be addressed first.
Strong Jawbone: You must have adequate jawbone density to ensure successful dental implant treatment.
Don’t worry: even if you’re not a good candidate at first, we can recommend preliminary treatments like bone grafting and gum disease therapy to help you become eligible for dental implants. Once we schedule and complete these procedures, you are one step closer to getting your smile back on track and ready for tooth replacement!
There are many reasons why you may lose a tooth. Maybe it’s from physical trauma or tooth decay that has advanced too far. We can place one dental implant below the gum line and into the jawbone to replace a single missing tooth with single tooth implants. Once it has fused with the bone, we can attach an abutment that anchors a custom-crafted dental crown in place, filling the gap in your smile.
For consecutive missing teeth, we can replace them all at once with an implant bridge. Instead of using a traditional bridge that requires the alteration of your natural teeth, we’ll place two dental implants on either side of the gap in your smile to anchor a bridge. This way, you won’t have to change your healthy teeth so they can act as anchors for your restoration.
Are you missing an entire row of teeth? Implant dentures are the best way to replace them all at once! For comprehensive full mouth restorations, we can place anywhere from four to eight dental implants. These secure the customized restoration in place to eliminate any slipping or shifting.
Dental implants are a lasting, life-changing investment, and choosing the right team to place them matters enormously. At Distinctive Dentistry by Mullens & Nguyen, Jacksonville patients receive personalized, expert care from doctors who combine clinical precision with a genuine artistic eye in a practice built on warmth, transparency, and uncompromising standards. Every implant treatment plan we create is tailored entirely to the individual, with no one-size-fits-all approach.
If you are ready to explore whether dental implants are right for you, we invite you to take the first step by requesting an appointment with our team. We serve patients throughout Jacksonville, San Marco, Riverside, and surrounding communities, and we look forward to helping you restore your smile with the care and precision it deserves.
Preliminary treatments to make dental implants possible, including preparatory procedures like a bone graft, tooth extraction, and gum disease therapy can influence the final cost of your tooth replacement.
Depending on how many implants you need, your surgery costs can be higher or lower than the average case.
Our dentists are highly trained in the placement of dental implants, so you can expect the fees for your care to be more compact, convenient, and easy to follow.
If you need more dental implants placed, this means more materials are needed to create the posts designed to mimic your tooth roots. Keep in mind the manufacturer and brand of your dental implant can also have an impact on the final costs, so feel free to ask us any questions you may have. We’ll be happy to explain why we use the implants we do to replace teeth.
When replacing several teeth at a time, more complex restorations are needed to complete your smile. For example, a single dental implant crown requires less material, time, and energy to design and fabricate. Complicated restorations like implant bridges and dentures require more materials and labor to create, therefore your costs may be notably higher. No matter what restoration you receive, you can expect it to be lifelike, durable, and blend in with your existing teeth.
In most cases, dental insurance does not offer coverage for dental implants. However, depending on the plan and the phase of your care, you may be able to receive at least partial coverage from your insurer. For example, it’s possible to receive coverage for preparatory treatments that make dental implant treatment viable. The restoration itself could also receive coverage, at least at a percentage. Our team gladly goes over your plan in detail to ensure your benefits are being maximized to the fullest.
Our office accepts dental insurance, but we also offer other ways to pay for your dental implant treatment. One way many patients make their treatment more affordable is through CareCredit, a third-party financing option that makes it easy to pay for treatments on a monthly basis, rather than in one large installment. These payments typically come with little to no interest attached, making regular payments all the more affordable.
Replace missing teeth permanently with dental implants and convenient monthly financing options starting today.
Choosing dental implants to replace your teeth is a big decision, which is why it’s normal to be curious about the treatment. At Distinctive Dentistry by Mullens & Nguyen, we want our patients to have peace of mind with easy access to the information they need. We’ve included answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about dental implants in Jacksonville below!
Yes, nerve injury is a possible complication during dental implant procedures, especially in the lower jaw where nerves are located close to the implant site. While rare, nerve injury can cause numbness, tingling, or pain. Dr. Mullens and Dr. Nguyen use advanced imaging and careful planning to minimize this risk.
What are prosthetic teeth and how are they used in dental implant treatment?
Prosthetic teeth are artificial teeth designed to replace missing natural teeth. In dental implant treatment, these prosthetic teeth are custom-made and attached to the implant fixtures after the healing process, restoring both function and appearance.
How is the final restoration attached to the implant?
Once the implant has fully integrated with the jawbone (a process called osseointegration), the final restoration, such as a crown, bridge, or denture, is securely attached to the implant. This attachment ensures stability, functionality, and long-term success of the dental implant.
Can existing dentures be used with dental implants?
In some cases, existing dentures can be modified to work with dental implants. The condition of your current dentures and their compatibility with implant-supported solutions are evaluated by Dr. Mullens or Dr. Nguyen to determine if they can be integrated into your treatment plan.
Unlike dentures, dental implants can be cleaned similarly to natural teeth: with twice-a-day brushing and daily flossing. The implants themselves might not be susceptible to cavities, but the teeth you have left still are. Failure to maintain an oral hygiene routine could cause plaque to form and lead to gum disease, which is the most common reason for dental implant failure. Keeping up with your brushing and flossing habits is an easy way to help your dental implants last.
Try to incorporate a wide variety of nutritious foods into your diet, such as leafy greens, fruits, vegetables, calcium-rich dairy products, and lean proteins. Not only do these items promote overall wellness, but they’ll also encourage healthy gum tissue and a strong jawbone. Do your best to consume sugary and starchy foods in moderation because they can increase the risk of gum disease.
Some habits are hard to break, but you should make the effort to quit the ones that could harm your implants. Your teeth (both real and artificial) could chip, crack, or break if you bite your fingernails, eat ice, open packages with your teeth, or chew on non-food objects like pencils. If you smoke or use tobacco in any way, consider quitting; it could prevent the implants from integrating with your jawbone. Feel free to ask Dr. Mullens or Dr. Nguyen for tips on breaking these habits, such as chewing sugar-free gum or finding smoking cessation groups.
Wearing a customized mouthguard can make a world of difference if you often play sports or suffer from bruxism (teeth grinding that usually occurs at night). These appliances are designed to comfortably absorb the impact of sports-related injuries or pressure from grinding, shielding your implants as well as your natural teeth.
A pivotal aspect of ensuring your dental implants last is to visit our office for regular checkups and cleanings. For most people, we recommend attending two of these visits per year, but that number may vary based on your specific needs. These appointments are essential in letting Dr. Mullens and Dr. Nguyen evaluate your implants for any signs of damage and treating them as early as possible.
When it comes to replacing missing teeth, dental implants represent the peak of dental artistry and innovation. At Distinctive Dentistry, Dr. Mullens and Dr. Nguyen provide complete start-to-finish implant treatment, combining compassionate care with advanced guided surgery technology and artistically crafted restorations. Unlike traditional tooth replacement options, dental implants preserve your jawbone, maintain your facial structure, and provide a permanent solution that looks, feels, and functions just like natural teeth.
We believe everyone deserves access to this life-changing treatment, which is why we offer flexible financing through CareCredit. Our monthly payment plans make dental implants affordable, allowing you to invest in a solution that can last a lifetime with proper care. Whether you need to replace a single tooth or require full-mouth reconstruction, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan that fits both your oral health needs and your budget. Don’t let missing teeth hold you back any longer. Call us at (904) 399-3163 or schedule your implant consultation today to explore how our affordable payment options can help you achieve the complete, confident smile you deserve.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
