Paul M. Huffaker, DMD is a Centerville family dentist treating patients of all ages. We are committed to delivering the highest quality dental care through a minimally invasive approach. We offer preventive services like checkups, digital x-rays, teeth cleanings and fluoride, as well as comprehensive care such as natural-looking fillings, crowns, bridges and implants. We also perform emergency dental services that include same day exams, root canals, and extractions.
Dr. Paul Huffaker comes from a great family of dentists, following in the legacy of his father, uncle and several brothers. He graduated from the University of Utah with a Bachelors degree in Biology in 2009, followed by a Doctor of Dental Medicine from Roseman University in South Jordan, Utah.
A native of Centerville, Dr. Huffaker is married with 4 children. They enjoy camping and kayaking in the Uinta mountains. Other hobbies include cooking, computer and small electronics repair, and home DIY projects.
'I am passionate about dentistry. The materials we have available today let us achieve some truly amazing things for our patients. I love the opportunities for artistic expression in restoring a tooth to its full potential. Theres nothing like seeing the effect you have on a person when a smile is restored or pain is relieved. - Dr. Paul Huffaker
The team at Paul M. Huffaker, DMD believe in the importance of preventative care. We focus on keeping patients in good oral health so that they can live a full, healthy, and enjoyable life that is free from oral pain. This starts by educating our patients on what they can do to stay healthy at home. In our family dentist office we recommend that patients eat a healthy diet that consists of green leafy vegetables, lean protein, nuts, dairy products, and crunchy fruits and veggies. Eating these foods along with drinking water can help to keep teeth healthy and make them stronger. By simultaneously reducing sugar intake, patients can also reduce their risk of cavities.
It is also important to brush and floss throughout the day. Instead of waiting for bedtime to brush teeth, carry a small toothbrush and use it after meals and snacks. This makes it possible to remove sugar and bacteria from the teeth and gums before it has the opportunity to turn into acid that can attack the teeth. This preventative step can greatly reduce a persons' risk of getting a cavity or gum disease. We understand the importance of taking these steps at home and will spend the time necessary to educate and inform patients so that they can stay healthy overall. Education, after all, is essential for living a long and healthy life.
Understanding the importance of these regular dental exams, the staff at Paul M. Huffaker, DMD work to make each patient extremely comfortable. This includes being welcoming and kind while performing dental treatments in a way that is painless and relaxing. Patients visit our dentist office because they trust us to do just that take care of their teeth and gums, gently. The majority of our patients are local and come from the greater Centerville area, we also see patients that are looking for gentle dental care.
Seniors, on the other hand, often struggle with gum disease and oral infections. As people age, their teeth can become weaker and infected more easily. Bone loss is incredibly common with seniors and by conducting regular dental exams, the team at Paul M. Huffaker, DMD can help seniors to have strong teeth and reduce the risk of them falling out. Since over seventy percent of U.S. adults suffer from tooth loss, preventative care is important.
A. Primary, or 'baby,' teeth are important for many reasons. Not only do they help children speak clearly and chew naturally, they also aid in forming a path that permanent teeth can follow when they are ready to come in.
A. First, rinse the irritated area with warm salt water and place a cold compress on the face if it is swollen. Give the child acetaminophen for any pain, rather than placing aspirin on the teeth or gums. Finally, see a dentist as soon as possible.
A. Sealants work by filling in the crevasses on the chewing surfaces of the teeth. This shuts out food particles that could get caught in the teeth, causing cavities. The application is fast and comfortable and can effectively protect teeth for many years.
A. Have your family dentist evaluate the fluoride level of your child's primary source of drinking water. If your child is not getting enough fluoride internally through water (especially if the fluoride level is deficient or if your child drinks bottled water without fluoride), then we may prescribe fluoride supplements.
A. Soft plastic mouthguards can be used to protect teeth, lips, cheeks and gums from sport related injuries. A custom-fitted mouthguard will protect your teeth from injuries and even provide protection from severe injuries to the head.
A. There is very little risk in dental X-rays. Family dentists are especially careful to limit the amount of radiation to which you and your family are exposed. Lead aprons and high-speed film are used to ensure safety and minimize the amount of radiation. Digital x-rays provide an even greater level of protection by using up to 90 percent less radiation.
A family dentist is a great resource to utilize when looking for ways to practice good oral hygiene. Both adults and children need to practice good oral hygiene on a daily basis to ensure that their teeth and gums remain in good shape. Outside of visiting a family dentist on a regular basis, there are
Going to a dentist for cavity treatment for kids can be a frightening experience for your child, especially if it is their first time. Cavities are caused by acids in the mouth eating away at teeth. These acids are created by oral bacteria that consume leftover food particles left on teeth surfaces after meals. The
A children's dentist can cover all aspects of the oral health of your children. These dentists can do many procedures, depending on what your child needs. The more common procedures involve cavity fillings, as well as dental exams. A childrens dentist can also do tooth extractions, restorative treatments, and preventative treatments.Cavities in children are also
Infection control has become the top priority all over the globe as the world battles the COVID-19 pandemic. The Centers for Disease Control has established new guidelines for healthcare providers and dentists to follow as they continue to provide services for patients with the most pressing needs.The coronavirus is an airborne virus that is very