Dr. Jong Park, DDS is a General Dentist practicing at Aspen Dental in Jacksonville, FL, dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive dental care for older adults. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), ensuring your care is guided by the highest standards of professional practice. Dr. Park understands the unique dental needs of individuals 65 years and older, recognizing that oral health is intrinsically linked to overall well-being.
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. Jong Park is committed to this collaborative approach, prioritizing the unique needs of each patient. He is currently welcoming new patients, and you can schedule an appointment by calling (850) 604-8217. Jong Yun Park, DDS, is the Dentist Owner of the Jacksonville, FL (Orange Park) location. He graduated from New York University College of Dentistry. With valuable knowledge and experience, he and the rest of the Aspen Dental team are proud to offer professional, compassionate care to patients like you. Aspen Dental practices are committed to treating patients with the compassion and respect they deserve. The practices believe in providing comprehensive care that addresses both your short- and long-term dental care needs, and promise to provide an honest assessment of your situation. Dr. Jong Park provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-provider partnership. Dr. Jong Park is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Park 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 age-related issues like dry mouth and gum disease while collaborating with other healthcare providers to ensure a holistic approach to well-being. His focus extends beyond simply treating dental concerns, encompassing the overall health of his patients and their individual needs.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Jong Park can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Ameritas
Dental
Dental Network of America
Humana
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Advantage Plus
- Assurant Health
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Georgia
- BlueDental Choice
- DHA
- DHA Premier
- Delta Dental
- Delta Dental PPO
- Delta Dental Premier
- Delta Dental of Washington
- Dental Complete
- Dental Preferred Plus
- DentalGuard Preferred
- DenteMax
- EmblemHealth
- Guardian
- MetLife
- MetLife PPO
- National Fee-for-Service
- United Concordia
- UnitedHealthCare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Jong Park 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:
- Plaque: Maintaining good oral hygiene by removing plaque daily is crucial for preventing gum disease and tooth decay, which can impact your ability to eat comfortably and enjoy your favorite foods.
- Gingivitis: Inflamed and irritated gums, known as gingivitis, can be addressed through better oral care habits and professional cleaning by your dentist to keep your mouth healthy and comfortable.
- 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.
- Canker Sore: If you're experiencing recurring or unusually large canker sores, it's important to consult your dentist, as they might indicate an underlying medical condition that needs attention, and your dentist can help identify the cause and provide effective treatment.
- Tooth Decay: Cavities are a common dental issue that can affect anyone at any age, including seniors, however, early detection through regular dental visits allows for timely treatment, preventing more extensive damage and avoiding painful procedures later.
- Mouth Conditions: Various mouth conditions can affect eating, speaking, and even self-confidence, but with proper dental care and treatment, many of these issues can be effectively managed, preserving independence and quality of life.
- Tooth Loss: Tooth loss, a common concern as we age, can be managed effectively with various replacement options like dentures, bridges, or implants, improving chewing, speaking, and overall confidence.
- Receding Gums: Receding gums can make eating and smiling less comfortable, but with regular dental check-ups and possibly some simple procedures, you can protect your teeth and maintain your smile.
- 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.
- Gum Disease: Maintaining healthy gums is crucial for overall well-being, and while gum disease can be a concern for seniors, diligent brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits can significantly reduce your risk and improve your quality of life.
- Chipped Tooth: Experiencing a chipped tooth can be concerning, but your dentist can assess the damage and recommend the best treatment to protect the tooth from further harm and restore its function.
- Clicking of Temporomandibular Joint: If your jaw clicks or pops, it's important to see your dentist. TMJ issues can often be treated conservatively with simple changes, helping you maintain a good quality of life as you age.
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. Jong Park offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Abscess Incision and Drainage: Incision and drainage assists in diagnosing the extent of a dental infection and guides the dentist in the appropriate course of treatment for better senior care.
- Amalgam Dental Fillings: Amalgam fillings, a type of tooth-colored filling, are a long-lasting solution to repair cavities and protect your teeth, helping maintain your overall oral health as you age.
- Dental Cleaning: Through a thorough cleaning, your dentist can assess the health of your mouth, identifying potential problems early for effective management and treatment.
- Dental Crown: As part of your ongoing dental care, a crown can effectively restore a tooth's function and prevent the need for more extensive procedures later on.
- Dental Hygiene Services: Regular dental hygiene appointments help detect oral health problems early, allowing for timely intervention and improving the overall success of your senior care plan.
- Dental Implant: If you're dealing with missing teeth, dental implants can be incorporated into your comprehensive dental care plan to restore your smile, improve your bite, and prevent further oral health problems.
- Root Canal: By removing infected tissue inside the tooth and carefully sealing the area, a root canal can resolve pain and save a tooth from requiring extraction.
- Teeth Extraction: Tooth extraction is the removal of a severely damaged or infected tooth, helping to prevent further oral health problems and improve overall comfort.
- Teeth Whitening: Incorporating teeth whitening into your dental care can help you maintain a beautiful smile throughout your senior years.
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. Jong Park 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:
- Grandma finally felt confident enough to enjoy her morning coffee and her favorite crunchy snacks without discomfort, thanks to consistent plaque removal and improved oral hygiene. Her family was relieved to see her smile again and regain her appetite.
- With improved oral care habits and professional cleanings, a senior woman rediscovered the joy of eating crunchy vegetables without discomfort, a cherished part of her daily routine.
- After a thorough examination, the dentist helped a senior woman identify and address the source of her persistent bad taste. She was able to resume enjoying her favorite meals without the unpleasant aftertaste, significantly improving her quality of life.
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. Jong Park:
- How is dental health connected to my overall health, like my heart?
- Maintaining healthy teeth and gums is crucial for your overall well-being. Bacteria from chronic gum disease can enter the bloodstream, potentially increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and poorly controlled diabetes. Regular dental care is vital for preventing these systemic health issues and promoting overall wellness.
- 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 can significantly increase your risk of tooth decay and gum disease because saliva is your body's natural defense. Dr. Park can recommend special rinses, gels, and other strategies to manage dry mouth and protect your 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 are a secure, long-term way to replace missing teeth, anchoring crowns, bridges, or even full dentures and preventing slipping. This can be a great investment in restoring chewing ability and confidence.
- My dentures don't fit as well as they used to. What can be done?
- Dr. Park's practice understands that changes in jawbone and gum shape over time can affect denture fit. A relining procedure can reshape the denture base for a better fit, or a new denture can be created if the existing one is significantly worn. A proper denture fit is vital for comfortable eating and speaking.
- Why are my teeth becoming more sensitive as I get older?
- Tooth sensitivity in older adults is often due to receding gums, exposing the tooth root, which lacks enamel protection. Years of brushing can also wear down enamel. Dr. Park can recommend desensitizing toothpastes, fluoride treatments, or check for other issues like cavities or cracked teeth.
- What is involved in an oral cancer screening?
- Dr. Park's oral cancer screenings are a quick, painless, yet vital part of every routine exam. He will visually inspect your mouth and throat for any unusual sores or changes in color. He will also gently feel your jaw and neck for any lumps. Early detection is key to successful treatment.
- What is the difference between a bridge and a partial denture?
- A dental bridge is a permanent, fixed appliance cemented to your teeth, while a partial denture is a removable appliance that clips onto your existing teeth.
- How should I be cleaning my dentures properly?
- To clean your dentures properly, remove and rinse them after each meal. Use a soft denture brush and a non-abrasive cleaner to clean all surfaces daily. Gently brush your gums, tongue, and roof of your mouth, and soak your dentures overnight in a denture solution or water.
Aspen Dental
8440 Blanding Blvd
Jacksonville FL 32244
Phone: (850) 604-8217
Dr. Jong Park, DDS 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): 1972868743
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. Jong Park 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.