Dr. Douglas Huhn, DMD is a General Dentist dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive dental care for older adults at his Orlando, FL clinic. He is a registered member of The Florida Board of Medicine, practicing under Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), and is committed to the specific needs of his senior patient population (65 years and older). Dr. Huhn understands that oral health is intrinsically linked to overall well-being, and he recognizes that the needs of aging adults often require specialized attention. General dentists play a vital role in the overall health of older adults, providing comprehensive oral care, managing age-related dental issues like dry mouth and gum disease, and collaborating with other healthcare providers to ensure optimal oral and overall well-being.
Dr. Douglas Huhn, DMD is a dentistry practitioner in Orlando, FL. He is accepting new patients and can be reached at (407) 422-6281 to schedule an appointment. He earned his medical degree from Washington University School of Dental Medicine, and brings over 25 years of local experience to his practice, having been born and raised in Orlando. He graduated from William R. Boone High School, attended Auburn University, graduating with a degree in Finance, and then completed his Doctorate in Dental Medicine at Washington University in St. Louis. Dr. Huhn's care philosophy is rooted in a deep understanding of the needs of senior patients, and his commitment to fostering a supportive and trusting environment is evident in his dedication to the community. He is a member of several dental organizations, including the American Dental Association, Florida Dental Association, and the Dental Society of Greater Orlando. Dr. Huhn provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-provider partnership. Dr. Douglas Huhn is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Huhn is a dedicated partner in your senior's health journey, providing compassionate and comprehensive dental care. He understands the unique oral health needs of older adults, addressing issues like dry mouth and gum disease while collaborating with other healthcare providers to ensure optimal oral and overall well-being. His approach prioritizes a holistic understanding of each senior's individual needs, fostering a supportive environment for their continued health and comfort.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Douglas Huhn can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Sun Life Financial
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Aetna
- Alliance EPO
- Ameritas
- Ameritas PPO
- Anthem
- BlueDental Choice & Choice Plus DPPO
- Cigna
- Connection Dental
- Connection Dental PPO
- Delta Dental
- Delta Dental PPO
- Delta Dental Premier
- Dental
- Dental Advantage DPPO
- Dental Choice DPPO
- Dental Complete DPPO
- Dental DPPO
- Dental PPO
- DentalConnect PPO
- DentalGuard Preferred
- Dominion National
- Elite Plus DPPO
- Florida Blue
- Guardian
- Humana
- Humana PPO
- Lincoln Financial Group
- MetLife
- MetLife PDP
- PDP Plus (Preferred Dentist Program) DPPO
- Principal Financial Group
- SimplyBlue
- Total Dental Administrators PPO
- Total Dental Administrators PPO PPO
- Total Dental DPPO
- United Concordia Dental
- UnitedHealthCare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Douglas Huhn provides expert, compassionate care for a range of conditions common in older adults, with a focus on managing symptoms and maintaining function. Common areas of focus include:
- Malocclusion (Bad Bite): Having a misaligned bite (malocclusion) might make chewing food less efficient and cause jaw strain. However, treatment options tailored to your needs can help improve your comfort and make eating enjoyable again.
- Bad Taste in Mouth: A persistent bad taste in your mouth can be bothersome, but your dentist can help identify the cause, whether it's poor oral hygiene, a medical condition, or even certain medications, and recommend ways to improve it.
- Oral Pharyngeal Disorders: Changes in your ability to swallow or speak might indicate an oral pharyngeal disorder, but with a tailored care plan involving speech therapy, medication, or dietary adjustments, as directed by healthcare professionals, you can regain some ease and confidence.
- Oral Cancer: Oral cancer is a serious but treatable disease affecting the mouth, lips, and throat, and early detection through regular dental checkups significantly improves treatment outcomes and quality of life.
- Dental Disorders: Maintaining good oral health is crucial for seniors as it significantly affects overall well-being, and addressing dental disorders can improve your diet, confidence, and overall quality of life.
- Crooked Teeth: Crooked teeth can sometimes cause jaw pain or discomfort, impacting daily activities, but your dentist can evaluate your situation and recommend appropriate treatment to alleviate pain and improve comfort.
- Dental Trauma: If you've suffered an injury to your mouth or teeth, seeking help from your dentist is crucial. They can provide necessary treatment to alleviate pain, prevent infection, and help you regain your ability to eat and speak normally.
This list highlights some common health concerns and is for informational purposes. An accurate diagnosis and a personalized care plan can only be developed through a direct consultation with a qualified medical professional based on your specific health history.
To provide comprehensive and person-centered care, Dr. Douglas Huhn offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Prophy Jet Air Polishing: For seniors with sensitive teeth or those who find traditional cleaning abrasive, Prophy Jet offers a gentler, more effective way to maintain healthy teeth and gums.
- Ceramic Dental Crowns: To improve the longevity and functionality of a compromised tooth, your dentist might recommend a ceramic crown as a restorative treatment option, helping prevent future dental issues.
- Surgical Biopsy: This minor procedure, a surgical biopsy, helps confirm the diagnosis of a suspicious area in your mouth, enabling your dentist to tailor the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific needs.
- Amalgam Dental Fillings: During a routine check-up, your dentist might recommend amalgam fillings to address tooth decay, ensuring your teeth remain strong and functional.
- Same-Day Dental Crowns: This efficient procedure means a faster recovery time and improved comfort for seniors requiring crown placement, streamlining your dental care plan.
- Ultrasonic Dental Cleaning: By removing plaque and bacteria with ultrasonic technology, this cleaning helps reduce inflammation and improve gum health, a vital aspect of your overall health journey.
- Full Mouth Reconstruction: This process helps diagnose and manage extensive dental problems, creating a long-term plan to maintain your oral health and improve your quality of life.
Service availability can change. To understand which services are appropriate for your specific health needs, please schedule a consultation to develop a personalized care plan.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for General Dentists in Florida.
Dr. Douglas Huhn is dedicated to partnering with older adults and their families to achieve their unique health objectives. The following examples illustrate how compassionate care can make a tangible difference in a patient's life:
- With a tailored treatment plan, a senior was able to enjoy a satisfying meal again, chewing comfortably without jaw strain. The family celebrated this newfound ease and the return of a cherished dinnertime ritual.
- After addressing the persistent bad taste, a senior couple rediscovered the joy of sharing meals with family, a cherished part of their daily routine.
- With a customized treatment plan that included speech therapy and dietary adjustments, a senior was able to enjoy meals with family again, feeling more confident and secure at home.
These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results vary and depend on many factors specific to each person. He will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.
- Primary Location:
Practice
3801 E Highway 98 Ste 100100, Port St. Joe, FL, 32456
Phone: (850) 229-5752
View on Map
- HCA Florida St. Lucie Hospital Port St. Lucie (Residency Hospital)
Here are answers to some common questions about Dental care with Dr. Douglas Huhn:
- How is dental health connected to my overall health, like my heart?
- Good oral hygiene is crucial for overall health. Bacteria from chronic gum disease can enter the bloodstream, potentially increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes complications. Regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential for maintaining both oral and systemic health.
- My medications make my mouth constantly dry. Is this a dental problem?
- Yes, dry mouth (xerostomia) is a very common side effect of many medications, and it is a dental problem. Saliva is the body's natural defense against cavities, so dry mouth significantly increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Dr. Huhn can recommend special rinses, gels, and other strategies to manage dry mouth and protect your teeth.
- What is involved in an oral cancer screening?
- An oral cancer screening is a quick, painless, but vital part of every routine dental exam. Dr. Huhn will visually inspect your mouth and throat for any unusual sores or discolorations, and gently feel your jaw and neck for lumps. Early detection is key to successful treatment.
- What is the difference between a crown and a filling?
- A filling is like a patch to repair a small area of damage, while a crown is a cap or helmet that covers the entire tooth. Crowns are used when a tooth is more damaged, cracked, or has had a root canal, providing extra strength and protection.
- How should I be cleaning my dentures properly?
- To properly clean your dentures, remove and rinse them after each meal. Use a soft denture brush and non-abrasive cleaner on all surfaces daily. Gently brush your gums, tongue, and roof of your mouth as well. Soak your dentures overnight in a denture solution or water.
- What is the difference between a bridge and a partial denture?
- A dental bridge is a fixed, permanent appliance cemented to your teeth, while a partial denture is a removable appliance that clips onto your existing teeth. A bridge fills the gap with a false tooth, and a partial denture replaces one or more missing teeth with replacement teeth.
- Are dental implants a safe and good option for older adults?
- Dental implants are often an excellent solution for older adults with sufficient jawbone health. They provide a secure, long-term way to replace missing teeth, anchoring crowns, bridges, or even full dentures, preventing slipping. This is a great investment in restoring chewing ability and confidence.
- Is it normal for my gums to bleed when I brush or floss?
- No, healthy gums should not bleed. Bleeding gums are usually the first sign of gum inflammation (gingivitis), which can progress to more serious periodontitis if not treated. Dr. Huhn can help create an effective and gentle home care routine to reverse this, often with a professional cleaning.
1100 S Orange Ave
Orlando FL 32806
Phone: (407) 422-6281
Dr. Douglas Huhn, DMD is regulated by the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice) in Florida and is licensed by The Florida Board of Medicine.
National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1114071628
Registration can typically be verified through The Florida Board of Medicine website or by direct inquiry.
The information on this profile, provided by infoaging.org, is for general informational purposes and to help you connect with healthcare partners for yourself or a loved one. It does not constitute direct medical advice from the provider named. General Dentists like Dr. Douglas Huhn are skilled in helping seniors and their families navigate their health journey. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. Always consult with a qualified medical professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your care plan.