A dentist wearing blue scrubs, gloves, and a mask examines a patients teeth with dental tools in a clinic.

What Are the Top Reasons to See a Family Dentist?

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Have you been considering going to a family dentist? Our dentist in Jacksonville, FL, at Dr. Matt Henry offers family dentistry services to help keep everyone in your home happy and healthy! Let’s explore the top reasons to choose a family dentist for all of your dental needs.

Scheduling Appointments Is Easier

Is it difficult to set up multiple dental visits due to school and work? A family dentist makes it simpler to schedule flexible appointments for routine dental services and other care.

Going to Appointments Is More Convenient

Visiting a family dentist means you don’t have to go to separate dental offices for your appointments and your children’s appointments. All of you can receive care in the same location.

Everyone Receives Comprehensive Care and Personalized Treatment

Family dentistry in Jacksonville, FL, includes care for all ages. You and your family members can count on having access to individualized care based on your personal dental needs, whether you’re due for routine cleanings or need treatment for oral health issues.

It Helps Reduce Dental Anxiety

Taking all family members to the same dentist helps build familiarity, easing anxiety about dental visits and allowing them to go more smoothly.

It Helps Build Healthy Habits at All Ages

Going to a family dentist means you receive guidance about oral health habits for all family members. You and your children can practice good habits to keep your gums and teeth healthy over the years.

Visit Our Family-Friendly Dentist!

Are you looking for a dentist for you and your family? At Dr. Matt Henry, we offer family dentistry in Jacksonville, FL, to ensure that you and your loved ones maintain good oral health at all ages.

 How to Conquer Your Fear of the Dentist

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Fear of the dentist is a rather common occurrence and, yet, it’s often played more for laughs than anything else. Plenty of dental practices may pay lip service to dental anxiety but when it comes down to it, they seem to have far more important matters on their minds.

The problem is not that people have fears of the dentist, it’s that those fears stand in the way of better oral health. Here, we’ll look at how to conquer your fears, so you don’t have to live in a state of dread every time you remember you need a cleaning.

Recognize the Consequences

While it can be very difficult to see a dentist in Jacksonville, FL, the alternative is typically worse. Avoiding the dentist for as long as possible can leave you with irreparable damage to your mouth. While tooth pain may fade eventually, tooth and gum issues can make it harder to speak. It can change the shape of your face. It can even prevent you from eating your favorite foods.

Remember the Wins

Visiting a dentist’s website, picking up the phone to call, finding your insurance cards: these are all wins when it comes to conquering your fears. If they don’t seem like much to celebrate, then it’s largely because you’re not looking at the problem in the right light. Giving yourself a little reward for taking a small step can make it easier to take a bigger one.

Find the Right Dentist

It takes some expertise and experience to deal with dental anxiety, which is why some dentists now offer more services for their most fearful patients. At Dr. Matt Henry, we not only have a compassionate staff to help, we also offer sedation dentistry in Jacksonville, which can help you get through even the most complex procedures.

Two dental professionals wearing blue scrubs and gloves stand in a dental clinic, smiling and making an OK gesture with their hands.

Why a One-on-One Experience Matters in Oral Healthcare

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When you read up on dentistry, you’ll learn a lot of general information about how different services work and what to expect when you make an appointment. This can create some confusion for people because, eventually, every practice may start to look the same.

Of course, not every practice will offer the same care. Here, we’ll look at why this makes a one-on-one experience in Jacksonville valuable when it comes to maintaining and improving your oral health.

A Personal Touch

There’s a reason why people rely on first-hand reviews from former customers or clients of different businesses: because they’re generally more trustworthy than the brand’s marketing copy. When it comes to finding a dentist, you should look for a professional who knows how to apply their training to your individual issues.

Whether you have unexplained pain, extreme tooth sensitivity, or a family history of gum diseases, a dentist who offers a one-on-one experience will do more than make you fill out a few standard forms. They’ll take the time to listen to you, so they’re less likely to miss an important detail. Plus, if you stick with them over time, they’ll have a more comprehensive understanding of how your teeth and gums change over time, and what you can do to prevent bigger issues down the road.

Finding the Right Dentist for You

At Dr. Matt Henry, we know that it’s not always easy to settle on a healthcare practitioner, especially if you’ve been wronged in the past. While no team is perfect, though, you can find people who will work with you — no matter how small your requests are. To learn more about our services and how our dentists in Jacksonville, FL approach your care, contact us today to see what a true one-on-one experience really means!

Woman with long dark hair in a yellow sleeveless top smiles and rests her hand on her chin against a plain white background.

3 Tips to Help Your Child Floss Every Night

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If it can be difficult to get adults to floss their teeth, the barriers are often higher for kids. While some children start with good habits and keep them going throughout their lives, other kids will push back on parents until parents just give up entirely. Here, we’ll look at a few tips to help your child floss in Jacksonville, FL.

Lead by Example

If you’re not one to floss, you’ll have difficulty telling your child to do it. You should not only floss every day, at least once a day but let your child see that you’re flossing. The more they see your habits, the more likely they are to want to imitate them. Just keep in mind that this tip is a long-term one, so don’t necessarily expect to see instant results.

Make It a Game

Your kid loves to play games already, so why not make flossing just as fun? This tip can be a tricky one, though, because not all kids like the same games. You’ll need to consider which tactics your kid will most likely respond to. So, if they love superhero movies, you might have them pretend that the bits of food are the bad guys.

Start Small

If you’ve tried everything else, and your child is still resisting, you can always ask for less. If they won’t floss every tooth, ask them to floss one every night. Not only is this far better than nothing, it also gets them into the habit of flossing. This Can be enough to propel them into flossing more than one.

If you’re looking for a family-friendly dentist in Jacksonville, FL one who can support you as you support your child, contact Dr. Matt Henry name to learn more about our services!

A dentist wearing magnifying glasses and gloves examines a woman’s teeth in a dental clinic, using dental instruments and a suction device.

3 Benefits of Routine Dental Visits

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Visiting the dentist should be marked on your calendar once every six months. During these appointments, dentists and dental assistants will examine your teeth and gums, provide a detailed teeth cleaning, and ensure your oral health is in tip-top shape.

Are you due for your next dental checkup? If so, contact the office of Dr. Matt Henry today! With our innovative technology and experienced dental team, we provide high-quality dental checkups in Jacksonville, FL.

Keep reading to learn three benefits of visiting the dentist for routine checkups.

Catch Problems Early

As with most medical issues, early treatment is crucial. This also applies to your dental health. Dental checkups allow specialists to examine your mouth and look for any signs of concern. If they notice something, they can take steps to fix the problem. If you wait too long for a dental checkup, these issues can become much worse—and more expensive to treat.

Save Money

Did you know many dental insurance plans actually include free dental checkups? Visiting the dentist for these appointments is a great and affordable way to protect your health. If you avoid these dental visits, you could develop serious dental issues. Not only can these problems be painful, but treating them is also more costly. Routine dental checkups can save you thousands!

Cleaner Teeth

Are you looking for cleaner, whiter teeth? Then make sure you’re visiting the dentist for routine checkups! Not only does your dentist examine your teeth during these office visits, but they also provide an in-depth cleaning process. They can wipe away stains, remove plaque, and freshen breath. Dentists give your teeth and gums the professional clean they need!

If you want optimal oral health, the office of Dr. Matt Henry is here to help. Call us today to work with the best dentist in Jacksonville, FL!

A glass of iced coffee is being poured into a clear glass with ice cubes, with a white background.

3 Teeth-Staining Drinks to Avoid

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While you may love them drinking them, some of your favorite beverages may not be too healthy for your teeth. Unfortunately, several yummy drinks, like coffee and red wine, can stain your enamel over time. Luckily, this staining can usually be fixed with certain dental treatments, such as teeth whitening.

If you’re dealing with tooth discoloration, the office of Dr. Matt Henry is here to help. With our innovative technology and high-quality teeth whitening process, we can make your teeth several shades whiter. Call us today to find that smile you’ve always wanted! We offer the most reliable teeth whitening in Jacksonville, FL.

In this post, we’ll talk about three teeth-staining beverages to avoid.

Coffee

Coffee contains tannins, a type of chemical compound called polyphenols. Unfortunately, this compound helps colors stick to teeth. Some people experience tooth discoloration if they drink dark coffee frequently.

Fruit Juice

Dark fruit juices, like blueberry or blackberry juice, can also lead to teeth staining. That’s because many dark fruits have tiny organic particles that can make their way deep into the pores of your teeth. The problem is even worse for those with a higher porosity in their enamel.

Dark Cola

The high acidity and sugar content in dark cola can wear down your teeth over time, making them more susceptible to discoloration. Not only will your teeth be more vulnerable to staining, but this erosion can also allow the dentin in your teeth to show through. This dentin is naturally darker and more yellow than your enamel.

If tooth discoloration is getting in the way of your life, consider teeth whitening here at the office of Dr. Matt Henry. In just a few short office visits, you can improve the appearance of your smile! Contact us today to work with the leading dentist in Jacksonville, FL.

A person lying in a dental chair receives nitrous oxide sedation via a nasal mask, while a dental professional with purple gloves adjusts the equipment.

Matt Henry: Have Questions About Nitrous Oxide? We Can Help!

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Do you have dental anxiety? If so, your dentist may recommend sedation dentistry for your next dental appointment. The most common form of sedation dentistry is a gas called nitrous oxide.

Nitrous oxide takes effect quickly and wears off just as fast. It’s convenient and safe for use during your dental procedure. If your dentist in Jacksonville, FL has recommended nitrous oxide for your next dental appointment, here’s what you need to know.

What Is Nitrous Oxide?

Nitrous oxide is a gas that’s inhaled through a mask during dental procedures. Sometimes, nitrous oxide is called “laughing gas.” Nitrous oxide can give patients a feeling of euphoria and calm throughout their dental visit. This feeling of calm can help patients sit still and relax while their dental procedure is taking place.

Who Benefits from Nitrous Oxide?

People who benefit from nitrous oxide are typically people who have dental anxiety. Some people who experience fear of the dentist will avoid making dental appointments because of their fear. Nitrous oxide can make the appointment less scary and more relaxing, and that can help the dental patient get over their fear.

What Does Nitrous Oxide Feel Like?

Nitrous oxide can help patients feel calm, peaceful, and detached during their dental appointment. While the appointment is happening, their mind may drift and their muscles stay relaxed.

Does Nitrous Oxide Eliminate Pain During the Dental Procedure?

Nitrous oxide does not eliminate pain during the procedure. If your dentist anticipates that a procedure will hurt, they may use an anesthetic to numb the area. Nitrous oxide can eliminate discomfort, but this discomfort is often emotional or psychological, rather than actual physical pain.

Think You’re a Good Candidate for Nitrous Oxide During Your Dental Procedure? Call Today!

The dental professionals at Dr. Matt Henry’s office offer sedation dentistry in Jacksonville, FL. Think you could benefit from nitrous oxide at your next dental appointment? Call us today to make your appointment.

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5 Major Flossing Mistakes You Must Avoid

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Your dentist in Jacksonville, FL, has probably already told you (many times) how important flossing is. Do you floss daily? Are you flossing correctly? Many people who floss daily don’t always floss correctly. So let’s examine the most common flossing mistakes and how you can avoid them.

5 Major Flossing Mistakes You Must Avoid

Here are some of the most common major flossing mistakes people make without realizing it. This information will help you recognize the mistake and tell you what to do instead if you want to maintain a healthy, happy smile.

1. Flossing Too Aggressively

Flossing too aggressively could damage your gums, enabling the potential for other dental health issues to take hold. Always floss as gently as possible. Schedule routine dental exams in Jacksonville, FL to maintain your oral health.

2. Flossing Without Brushing

Flossing is intended to loosen and remove food and other debris between your teeth, so they can be swept away when you brush. Never floss without brushing also.

3. Putting Pressure on Your Gums

When you floss, you should be flossing up and away from the sides of each tooth. You shouldn’t be flossing down into your gums. Doing so could create lasting tissue damage.

4. Flossing Too Quickly

If you will take the time to floss, make sure you take the time to do it right. When flossing too quickly, you are likely not flossing well enough to remove all the debris from your teeth or to floss your teeth properly.

5. Flossing Too Often

You should floss your teeth only once a day, preferably before you go to bed. Flossing too often could lead to gum damage.

Do You Need a Dentist in Jacksonville, FL?

Along with brushing and flossing daily, you should visit your dentist regularly. Contact Dr. Matt Henry today to schedule a routine dental exam. We want to make sure you maintain a healthy smile for life.

A woman in a white robe lies in bed appearing to be in pain, with an alarm clock visible on the bedside table.

What to Do Immediately for a Knocked-Out Tooth

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Most people’s first reaction when they knock out a tooth is to put it in some water. That’s the absolute worst thing you could do. Here is what your dentist in Jacksonville, FL, recommends.

What to Do Immediately If You Knock Out a Tooth

Never, ever, ever put a knocked-out tooth in water. Doing so could cause the tooth’s root to burst. You need to get help immediately! And we mean immediately! If you want to save and re-implant the tooth.

But until you can get there, here is what you should do.

  • Handling the Tooth

Never handle the tooth by the root. Only handle the tooth by the crown (top part) of the tooth.

  • Place the Tooth Back in the Socket (if possible)

Rinse it with milk or saliva first if needed. Then, if you can, place the tooth back into its socket. Don’t force it. You can hold it in place by gently closing your mouth. If you can’t put it back in the socket, put it in some milk.

  • Put the Tooth in Some Milk (not water)

Put the tooth in milk. Milk has enzymes that help protect the periodontal ligaments. Make sure the tooth is completely submerged in the milk. Then get to the emergency dentist immediately!

If you do all this within five to 60 minutes or so, chances are your tooth will survive if it has been stored properly. After that, the chances decrease significantly.

Now, you will need some restorative dentistry in Jacksonville, FL.

This applies to adult teeth, not baby teeth, so you can wait for your child’s adult tooth to come in.

Do You Need a Dentist in Jacksonville, FL?

If you knock out a tooth, you will need some dental work to get your mouth back to normal. Contact Dr. Matt Henry today. Our number one goal will be to help you get your smile back. We have a comfortable and inviting office with a team of professionals who love making people smile.

A young child with light brown hair wearing a white shirt stands near a white crib, looking at the camera while sucking their thumb.

How Thumb Sucking Can Lead to a Dental Disaster

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Most kids suck their thumbs from time to time. But at what point does it become a problem? The answer might surprise you. Your dentist in Jacksonville, FL, will be the first to tell you what can happen if you don’t get a handle on it sooner rather than later.

How Long Is Thumb Sucking OK?

Babies and toddlers suck their thumbs as a self-soothing mechanism. However, if it continues for too long it can cause long-term damage to their mouth and teeth (more about that in a moment).

After six months of age, a child’s thumb-sucking urge should decrease. However, 30% or so continue through their preschool years. A child will usually wean themselves off thumb-sucking around age three. Anything past that could turn into a dental disaster.

How Thumb Sucking Will Affect Your Child’s Teeth

These are some of the dental disasters that could happen if your child continues to suck their thumb past the age of three.

  • Overbite
  • Open bite
  • Misaligned teeth
  • Speech impediments
  • Social impacts (due to being the only one still sucking their thumb)

How to Stop Thumb Sucking

Your family dentist in Jacksonville, FL, has a foolproof solution to stop your child’s thumb-sucking issue quickly. Who would have thought a dentist could help? But they can!

Your dentist can fit your child with a special oral appliance called a palatal crib. A tongue crib (palatal crib) is cemented behind your child’s teeth. It prevents the thumb from reaching the roof of the mouth, reducing the gratification of thumb-sucking.

Do You Need a Dentist in Jacksonville, FL?

If you have a thumb-sucking child past the age of three, don’t wait to talk with your dentist about your options. Contact Dr. Matt Henry today. Our terrific staff understands how to deal with children and their dental issues properly. And we would love to help you fix your child’s thumb-sucking issues before they become a bigger problem.