Dental Hygienist Job in Jacksonville, FL | Part-Time Wednesday Position

We’re looking to add a dental hygienist to our team on Wednesdays, with the potential for more time down the road.

One of our longtime hygienists is retiring to spend more time with her new grandchildren. We’re excited for her and now we’re opening the door for someone great to step in.

About us:
Private, fee-for-service practice
High standards, low drama
Strong relationships with patients
Supportive, respectful team that actually enjoys working together

About the position:
• Wednesdays to start
• Opportunity for additional days in the future
• Quality-focused care
• Patients who value what we do

If you’re a hygienist who takes pride in your work, likes autonomy, and wants to be part of a practice that genuinely values you, I’d love to connect.

What Patients Should Know About Out-of-Network Dental Insurance

Transparency, Coverage Claims, and Why Thoughtful Dentistry Matters

Dental insurance is often marketed as simple: “We’ll cover 50–100% of your care.”
But recent developments suggest the reality may be far more complicated.

In January 2026, American Dental Association News reported on a class-action lawsuit alleging that Delta Dental misrepresented how out-of-network dental benefits are calculated.

According to the lawsuit, patients were led to believe that coverage percentages applied to a dentist’s actual fee—when in practice, reimbursement was based on a proprietary internal pricing system that was never clearly disclosed.

This matters—for patients and providers alike.

What the Lawsuit Alleges (In Plain English)

The lawsuit claims that:

• Patients were told their plan would cover a percentage of out-of-network care
• That percentage was not applied to the dentist’s actual fee
• Instead, reimbursement was calculated using an internal “allowed amount”
• The pricing methodology was not transparent to patients
• Patients were left with larger-than-expected balances

You can read the full ADA News report here:
🔗 https://adanews.ada.org/ada-news/2026/january/patient-lawsuit-alleges-delta-dental-misrepresents-out-of-network-coverage/

At the time of writing, the allegations remain unresolved, and Delta Dental has denied wrongdoing. But the case highlights a broader issue in dental insurance: confusion around coverage, reimbursement, and patient responsibility.

Why This Confusion Exists in Dentistry

Dental insurance was never designed to function like medical insurance.

Most dental plans:
• Cap annual benefits (often $1,000–$2,000)
• Use internal fee schedules
• Do not adjust benefits meaningfully for complexity or longevity
• Have not kept pace with modern materials or techniques

As a result, insurance often prioritizes cost containment, not clinical outcomes. Learn more about dental insurance plans and costs here

This is one reason many practices—especially those focused on complex, restorative, or long-term care—choose to remain out of network.

Learn more about dental insurance costs here: 🔗https://www.cjhenleydmd.com/retirement-and-dental-insurance

What “Out-of-Network” Actually Means

Being out of network does not mean your insurance doesn’t work.

It means:
• Your dentist sets fees based on care, time, materials, and expertise
• Insurance reimburses according to its internal rules
• Patients maintain freedom to choose their provider
• Treatment planning is not dictated by insurance limitations

At CJ Henley, DMD, PA, our focus is on thoughtful treatment planning, not insurance-driven decisions.

We believe patients deserve:
• Clear explanations of costs
• Honest expectations about coverage
• Dentistry designed for durability—not shortcuts

You can learn more about our approach to long-term, medically involved, and complex care here:
🔗 https://www.cjhenleydmd.com/complex-medically-involved-care

Why This Matters for Long-Term Dental Health

Insurance limitations can unintentionally encourage:
• Delayed care
• Patchwork treatment
• Short-term fixes
• Repeated replacement of failing work

Over time, this can cost patients more—financially and biologically.

For many patients, investing in durable, well-planned dentistry aligns more closely with long-term health goals—especially for those thinking ahead to retirement, fixed incomes, or medically complex futures.

If you’re planning long-term dental care alongside retirement or insurance transitions, this page may be helpful:
🔗 https://www.cjhenleydmd.com/new-patients

Our Philosophy: Transparency First

We don’t believe dentistry should feel adversarial—between patients, providers, and insurance companies.

Our commitment is to:
• Explain treatment options clearly
• Help patients understand insurance realities
• Support informed decision-making
• Advocate for care that lasts

Whether you are in network, out of network, insured, or uninsured, the goal remains the same:

Dentistry that is biologically sound, thoughtfully planned, and built to last.

Final Thoughts

The ADA News lawsuit doesn’t just raise legal questions—it raises awareness.

Patients deserve transparency.
Dentists deserve autonomy.
Care decisions should be driven by health, not hidden formulas.

If you have questions about insurance, coverage, or how to plan dental care with clarity and confidence, we’re always happy to have that conversation.

Last reviewed and updated: January 2026

Cosmetic Dentistry Mastery: What Makes a Truly Beautiful Smile in 2026 (Expert Insights from a Jacksonville Dentist)

BEFORE

AFTER

A beautiful smile isn’t just about white teeth anymore. Modern cosmetic dentistry is about harmony, proportion, balance, and longevity. When those elements are ignored, especially during treatment planning or material selection, even brand-new cosmetic dentistry can look unnatural.

This post explains what truly defines exceptional cosmetic dentistry in 2026 and beyond, and why poor planning and improper materials remain the most common reasons cosmetic cases fail. Everything here is based on real clinical experience, aesthetic principles, and real patient outcomes.

Whether you’re considering veneers, whitening, bonding, Invisalign, or a full smile makeover, this guide will help you understand what matters most and what many patients don’t realize until they’re looking at results they regret.

1. The Science Behind Beautiful Smiles

Great cosmetic dentistry results are never accidental. They are designed.

High-level cosmetic work relies on proven aesthetic and functional principles:

• Facial harmony: Teeth must match facial proportions. Oversized, flat, or bulky restorations immediately look artificial.

• Smile arc and proportions: Natural smiles follow subtle curves. Ignoring this leads to rigid, “piano-key” teeth.

• Tooth shape and color theory: Shade selection isn’t just “how white.” Value, translucency, and surface texture determine whether teeth look youthful or fake.

Dentists who specialize in cosmetic dentistry use digital smile design, diagnostic mock-ups, and precise measurements before treatment begins. Skipping this step is where many cosmetic dentistry failures start.

2. The Most Impactful Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures and Where They Fail

Teeth Whitening

• Professional whitening is one of the fastest ways to improve a smile. But whitening without evaluating enamel quality or sensitivity can exaggerate underlying issues and lead to discomfort or uneven results.

• Porcelain Veneers: Powerful When Done Right, Obvious When Done Wrong

• Veneers can completely transform a smile—but they demand careful planning and correct material selection.

Poor veneer outcomes almost always involve:

• Overly opaque or incorrect ceramic materials

• Improper thickness and contour

• No consideration of translucency or light reflection

• Rushed or nonexistent smile design

High-quality porcelain veneers should be indistinguishable from natural enamel. When they’re not, the problem is rarely the veneers themselves—it’s the planning behind them.

Veneers page

Dental Bonding

• Bonding works well for small chips or gaps, but material quality and technique matter. Poor bonding stains quickly and looks dull, especially in the aesthetic zone.

Gum Contouring

• Uneven gum architecture can ruin otherwise good cosmetic work. Ignoring gingival symmetry is a planning failure, not a minor detail.

Invisalign and Clear Aligners

• Cosmetic alignment is not just about straight teeth. Bite, arch form, and long-term stability must be addressed. Moving teeth without functional planning often creates problems later.

3. A Real Example: When Cosmetic Dentistry Goes Wrong

The case shown above is a clear example of what happens when cosmetic dentistry is performed without proper planning and with inappropriate material choices.

The restorations appear overly opaque and bulky, with unnatural contours and poor light reflection, stains around the margins (where the restoration meets the tooth). The teeth don’t blend with the surrounding dentition or facial features. It lacks harmony, proportion, and realism.

Cases like this are rarely caused by a single mistake. They’re the result of:

• No facial-driven smile design

• Incorrect ceramic material selection

• Ignoring tooth shape, thickness, and translucency

• Poor execution of the original plan

Correcting results like these often requires removing the restorations entirely and starting over—this time with proper planning.

4. Trends Improving Cosmetic Dentistry in 2026

Modern cosmetic dentistry is evolving in ways that directly reduce failures:

• Digital Smile Design: Final outcomes are planned before treatment begins.

• Advanced shade-matching systems: Improved color blending and realism.

• Minimally invasive veneers: Less tooth reduction, better long-term outcomes.

These advancements improve predictability, comfort, and longevity—not just aesthetics.

5. Common Cosmetic Dentistry Mistakes Patients Make

❌ Choosing a cosmetic dentist based on price alone
❌ Assuming all veneers and materials are the same
❌ Whitening or restoring teeth without evaluating enamel and bite
❌ Skipping diagnostic planning to “save time”

Cosmetic dentistry is a blend of art and science. When either is ignored, results suffer.

6. Materials and Techniques I Use in My Practice

In my Jacksonville cosmetic dentistry practice, material selection is never an afterthought.

I rely on:

• High-strength esthetic ceramics (such as e.max) for natural translucency

• Custom shade-matching protocols for seamless blending

• Close collaboration with dental laboratories to control contour, texture, and light behavior

These decisions reduce remakes, improve longevity, and deliver smiles that feel natural not manufactured.

7. How to Choose the Right Cosmetic Dentist

Ask specific questions:

• Do you use digital smile design or mock-ups?

• How do you select materials for veneers?

• Can I see before-and-after cases similar to mine?

• How do you evaluate bite and long-term function?

• What’s the maintenance plan after treatment?

A true cosmetic dentist designs the result before touching a tooth.

8. Frequently Asked Questions

How long do porcelain veneers last?
With proper planning, materials, and maintenance, veneers often last 10–20 years or longer.

Is cosmetic dentistry painful?
Modern techniques make most cosmetic procedures very comfortable.

What’s the difference between whitening and veneers?
Whitening changes color. Veneers change shape, proportion, and color when designed properly.

Conclusion: Great Cosmetic Dentistry Is Planned, Not Rushed

Most cosmetic dentistry failures are not caused by bad intentions—they’re caused by poor treatment planning and inappropriate material choices.

Exceptional cosmetic dentistry starts with education, design, and precision. If you’re considering a smile makeover, the most important decision you’ll make is who plans it.

When you’re ready, we’ll build a cosmetic plan that’s beautiful, functional, and designed to last—not just look good on day one.

Schedule a Consultation

Composite Bonding in Jacksonville: Small Changes, Big Impact

When people search “cosmetic dentistry near me,” they’re rarely looking for something dramatic. Most patients want a small improvement that makes a noticeable difference — a chip, a dark edge, a gap they’ve always seen in photos.

Composite bonding is one of the most conservative and effective ways to achieve that kind of change. When it’s done thoughtfully, it enhances what’s already there rather than covering it up.

In my practice, bonding is a collaborative process. You’re involved in the details, the shape, and the final look. The goal is simple: to help your teeth look the way you’ve always felt they should.

What Is Composite Bonding?

Composite bonding uses tooth-colored resin to reshape, rebuild, or refine teeth. It’s minimally invasive, preserves natural tooth structure, and is often completed in a single visit.

Bonding is commonly used for:
• Repairing chipped or fractured teeth
• Closing small gaps
• Correcting uneven or worn edges
• Improving symmetry
• Addressing localized discoloration
• Finishing cosmetic details after orthodontics

When done well, bonding blends seamlessly with natural enamel — it shouldn’t look like dental work at all.

Why Our Bonding Looks Natural

Not all bonding is the same. The difference is in the planning, materials, and time spent on the details.

Here’s what we do differently:
• You’re involved in the design from the start
• Filtek Supreme composite for lifelike shade and translucency
• Scotchbond Universal adhesive for long-term durability
• Bioclear matrix system for smooth contours and natural emergence
• Glycerin final cure to eliminate the oxygen-inhibited layer and reduce staining
• Micro-texture and polish that mimic natural enamel
• Careful, unhurried execution

The result is bonding that doesn’t look like bonding — it looks like your tooth.

Our Approach: Built Around Your Vision

Every bonding case begins with a conversation. Some patients want a very subtle change. Others want a more noticeable refinement.

For more involved cases, I often create a chairside mock-up so you can preview the shape, size, and symmetry before we begin. This allows real-time feedback and eliminates surprises.

Most bonding cases are completed in one visit. To maintain the highest quality, we typically limit treatment to six teeth or fewer per appointment.

Bonding vs. Veneers: Honest Guidance

Composite bonding is an excellent option for many patients, but it isn’t the right solution for every situation.

Here’s how I explain the difference:
• Bonding works best for subtle to moderate cosmetic changes
• Veneers are better for full-coverage transformations or major color changes
• Veneers resist staining longer
• Bonding is easier to repair or adjust
• The right choice depends on your goals, budget, and long-term plan

Good dentistry isn’t about pushing treatment. It’s about helping you make an informed decision that fits you.

Longevity and Maintenance

With proper care, composite bonding can last many years.

I recommend:
• Avoid biting nails or hard objects
• Maintain excellent oral hygiene
• Periodic polishing as needed
• Expect occasional touch-ups over time — they’re simple and conservative
• Reach out promptly if something feels off

One thing that sets my practice apart: if there’s an issue, you have direct access to me. Your care doesn’t stop when you leave the office.

Why Patients Choose Us for Composite Bonding

Patients choose this practice because we focus on precision, honesty, and collaboration. We don’t rush treatment, and we don’t recommend procedures you don’t need. The goal is always the most natural-looking result possible — planned carefully and delivered with intention.

If you’re searching for cosmetic dentistry or composite bonding in Jacksonville, I’d be happy to help you explore whether this conservative approach is right for you.

Real Before & After

Case 1: Closing spaces and refreshing the smile using composite bonding.

Case 2: Improving shape and symmetry using composite bonding.

Case 3: Budget-friendly full-mouth rehabilitation with selective extractions, composite restorations, and a flexible partial

Frequently Asked Questions About Composite Bonding

How long does composite bonding last?

With proper care, bonding can last many years. Periodic polishing and occasional touch-ups help maintain appearance and durability.

Is composite bonding reversible?

Yes. Because bonding preserves natural tooth structure, it’s considered a conservative and reversible cosmetic option.

Does composite bonding stain over time?

Bonding can stain more than porcelain veneers, but proper polishing and good habits significantly reduce discoloration.

Is bonding better than veneers?

Bonding is ideal for minor to moderate changes. Veneers are better for full-coverage or major color transformations. The right choice depends on your goals.

How many teeth can be bonded at once?

For quality and precision, we typically limit bonding to six teeth per visit.

Is composite bonding painful?

Bonding is usually painless and often requires no anesthesia.

The Ultimate Toothpaste Guide 2.0 | What Dentists Really Use | CJ Henley, DMD

You can find thousands of toothpaste reviews online—celebrity endorsements, “top 10” lists, even influencers claiming coconut oil changed their lives. But how many of those voices actually treat real mouths every day? Let’s change that. This is the honest, dentist’s version of the ultimate toothpaste guide—what actually matters, what doesn’t, and what I personally use in my own bathroom cabinet.

The Myth of the “Perfect Toothpaste”

Here’s the truth: there’s no single best toothpaste for everyone. The right choice depends on your mouth—your enamel, your diet, your habits, and even your medical history. Still, most patients (and even some dentists) underestimate how much toothpaste can make or break your daily routine. It’s not just a flavor or foam preference. The right toothpaste can reduce sensitivity, prevent cavities, and even help preserve dental work for years.

What Dentists Look for in a Toothpaste

Forget the commercials for a second. Here’s what actually matters when you read that label:

1. Fluoride: The backbone of every effective toothpaste. It strengthens enamel and reverses early decay. Sodium fluoride or stannous fluoride—both are solid choices.

2. Abrasiveness (RDA): Abrasives remove surface stains but can also wear enamel or restorations. I avoid anything over 100 RDA for most patients.

3. Active Ingredients: Potassium nitrate for sensitivity. Stannous fluoride for gum health. Nano-hydroxyapatite for remineralization. Each serves a purpose.

4. The Stuff You Don’t Need: Charcoal, “natural” whitening agents, and oil pulling trends often sound appealing but can be misleading. If it’s overly abrasive, skip it.

What I Actually Use at Home

People always ask, “So, Dr. Henley, which toothpaste do you use?”

Here’s my honest rotation:

• For everyday care: A fluoride toothpaste with mild abrasiveness (like Pronamel or Colgate Total).

• For sensitivity: A desensitizing option like Sensodyne Repair & Protect.

• For dry mouth or post-radiation patients: Biotène or any SLS-free fluoride toothpaste.

• For whitening: I don’t use “whitening” toothpaste. They rarely change intrinsic color; professional whitening is the only way to do that safely.

  When Toothpaste Alone Isn’t Enough

Even the best toothpaste can’t overcome bad habits. Brush twice a day for two minutes, use a soft brush, and floss (or use interdental brushes) daily. If your toothpaste feels like it’s not helping—bleeding gums, persistent sensitivity, discoloration—come see me. Sometimes, your mouth is trying to tell you something toothpaste can’t fix.

Bonus: Toothpaste Tips Most People Don’t Know

• Less is more. A pea-sized amount is plenty for adults. More foam doesn’t mean more cleaning.

• Don’t rinse immediately. Spit, don’t rinse—let fluoride stay on the enamel a bit longer.

• Match your needs. Post-cancer therapy, enamel wear, implants—all require specific formulations.

My Takeaway

If your toothpaste isn’t supporting your smile, it’s time to switch. Don’t fall for hype—look for ingredients that protect, strengthen, and heal. At the end of the day, toothpaste should work as hard as you do. And if you’re still unsure which one is best for your mouth, that’s what I’m here for. Schedule a visit, and we’ll create a personalized care plan that goes way beyond the tube.

Interesting Facts About Christmas: Merry Christmas from the Team at CJ Henley, DMD

Origin of Christmas Trees: The tradition of decorating Christmas trees dates back to 16th-century Germany. It became popular in England during the 19th century when Queen Victoria's German husband, Prince Albert, introduced the Christmas tree to the royal family.

First Christmas Card: The first commercially produced Christmas card was created in London in 1843 by Sir Henry Cole. It featured a family enjoying a festive meal, and about 1,000 copies were printed.

Santa Claus's Evolution: The modern image of Santa Claus is often credited to the Coca-Cola Company. In the 1930s, Coca-Cola commissioned artist Haddon Sundblom to create a series of images featuring a plump, jolly Santa enjoying Coca-Cola. This contributed to the popularization of the contemporary image of Santa Claus.

Christmas Stockings: The tradition of hanging stockings by the fireplace is said to have originated from the story of St. Nicholas, who, according to legend, left gifts in the stockings of three poor sisters.

Christmas Colors: The traditional colors of Christmas, red and green, have symbolic meanings. Red represents the blood of Christ, while green symbolizes eternal life.

Mistletoe Tradition: The custom of kissing under the mistletoe is believed to have originated from ancient Norse mythology. It was associated with Frigg, the Norse goddess of love, and evolved into a Christmas tradition over time.

World Record for Lights: The Guinness World Record for the most Christmas lights on a residential property is held by a family in LaGrangeville, New York. They set up an astonishing 601,736 lights in 2014.

Tallest Christmas Tree: The tallest artificial Christmas tree ever made was constructed in the city of Sri Lanka in 2019. It stood at a staggering 236 feet.

Caroling Tradition: The tradition of Christmas caroling has ancient roots. Early carolers used to dance from house to house, and the word "carol" originally meant a circle dance. Over time, it evolved into singing festive songs.

Christmas Traditions Around the World: Different countries have unique Christmas traditions. For example, in Iceland, there are 13 Santas who visit children over the Christmas season. In Japan, it's a tradition to eat KFC for Christmas dinner.

Why does toothpaste and orange juice taste so bad?!

Why Does Orange Juice Taste Terrible After Brushing Your Teeth?

If you’ve ever taken a sip of orange juice right after brushing and thought, “Why does this taste so awful?” you’re not imagining it. It’s a real, predictable effect — and it has more to do with chemistry than the orange juice itself.

The main culprit is a common toothpaste ingredient called sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS). SLS is a foaming agent that helps loosen plaque and debris, but it also temporarily changes how your taste buds perceive flavor.

Here’s what’s happening:

1. SLS dulls sweetness and amplifies bitterness
   SLS can temporarily reduce your ability to taste sweet flavors. At the same time, it makes bitter notes taste stronger. Orange juice has natural bitter compounds and acids — normally they’re balanced by sweetness. After brushing, the sweetness gets muted and the bitterness becomes more obvious.

2. SLS disrupts “taste smoothing” in orange juice
   Orange juice contains compounds (including phospholipids) that help coat your mouth and soften bitter flavors. SLS can interfere with that effect, which further lets the bitter taste come through.

3. Mint and citrus don’t play nicely
   Many toothpastes leave a strong mint aftertaste. Mint plus acidic citrus can create a weird flavor clash — not the main reason, but it can make the experience worse.

How Long Should You Wait?

A simple fix is to wait about 20–30 minutes after brushing before drinking orange juice or other acidic beverages. This gives saliva time to wash away and dilute residual toothpaste ingredients and lets your taste perception normalize.

If you really want orange juice sooner:
• Rinse your mouth well with water after brushing
• Or brush after breakfast instead of before

Bottom line: nothing is “wrong” with the orange juice — your toothpaste is temporarily changing how your mouth tastes it.

October is National Dental Hygiene Month

5 Simple Habits for a Lifetime of Dental Health

Tip 1

Master the Two-Minute Drill

Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Replace your toothbrush (or electric head) every 3-4 months. Frayed bristles don't clean—they just move bacteria around.

Tip 2

Floss Like a Boss

Brushing only cleans 60% of your teeth. Use floss or a water flosser daily to hit the hidden spots where cavities start.

Tip 3

The Power of the Rinse

Antibacterial mouthwash reaches your cheeks and tongue, killing the germs that brushing misses and keeping your breath fresh longer.

Tip 4

Eat for Your Enamel

Fuel up on calcium-rich foods and avoid "grazing." Constant snacking keeps your mouth acidic; give your saliva time to naturally protect your teeth.

Tip 5

Partner with the Pros

Professional cleanings remove tartar that home brushing can't. Regular exams catch small issues before they become big, expensive ones.

Easter Break

OUR OFFICE WILL BE CLOSED APRIL 15th-18th. If you are experiencing a true dental emergency please call our on call number 904-762-5616 or text Dr. Henley directly 904-434-7883

Some oral bacteria linked with hypertension in older women

Some oral bacteria were associated with the development of hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, in postmenopausal women, according to new research published today in the Journal of the American Heart Association, an open access, peer-reviewed journal of the American Heart Association.

High blood pressure is typically defined by two measurements: systolic blood pressure (the upper number measuring pressure when the heart beats) of 130 mm Hg or higher, and diastolic blood pressure (the lower number indicating pressure between heart beats) of 80 mm Hg or higher.

While previous research has indicated that blood pressure tends to be higher in people with existing periodontal disease compared to those without it, researchers believe that this study is the first to prospectively examine the association between oral bacteria and developing hypertension.

"Since periodontal disease and hypertension are especially prevalent in older adults, if a relationship between the oral bacteria and hypertension risk could be established, there may be an opportunity to enhance hypertension prevention through increased, targeted oral care," said Michael J. LaMonte, Ph.D., M.P.H., one of the study's senior authors, a research professor in epidemiology at the University at Buffalo -- State University of New York and a co-investigator in the Women's Health Initiative clinical center in the University's epidemiology and environmental health department.

Researchers evaluated data for 1,215 postmenopausal women (average age of 63 years old at study enrollment, between 1997 and 2001) in the Buffalo Osteoporosis and Periodontal Disease Study in Buffalo, New York. At study enrollment, researchers recorded blood pressure and collected oral plaque from below the gum line, "which is where some bacteria keep the gum and tooth structures healthy, and others cause gum and periodontal disease," LaMonte said. They also noted medication use and medical and lifestyle histories to assess if there is a link between oral bacteria and hypertension in older women.

At study enrollment, about 35% (429) of the study participants had normal blood pressure: readings below 120/80 mm Hg, with no use of blood pressure medication. Nearly 24% (306) of participants had elevated blood pressure: readings above 120/80 mm Hg with no medication use. About 40% (480) of participants were categorized as having prevalent treated hypertension: diagnosed and treated for hypertension with medication.

Researchers identified 245 unique strains of bacteria in the plaque samples. Nearly one-third of the women who did not have hypertension or were not being treated for hypertension at the beginning of the study were diagnosed with high blood pressure during the follow-up period, which was an average of 10 years.

The analysis found:

• 10 bacteria were associated with a 10% to 16% higher risk of developing high blood pressure; and

• five other kinds of bacteria were associated with a 9% to 18% lower hypertension risk.

These results were consistent even after considering demographic, clinical and lifestyle factors (such as older age, treatment for high cholesterol, dietary intake and smoking) that also influence the development of high blood pressure.

The potential associations for the same 15 bacteria with hypertension risk among subgroups was analyzed, comparing women younger than age 65 to those older than 65; smokers versus nonsmokers; those with normal versus elevated blood pressure at the start of the study, and other comparisons. Results remained consistent among the groups compared.

The findings are particularly relevant for postmenopausal women, since the prevalence of high blood pressure is higher among older women than older men, according to LaMonte.

More than 70% of American adults ages 65 and older have high blood pressure. That age category, the fastest growing in the U.S., is projected to reach 95 million by 2060, with women outnumbering men 2 to 1, according to a 2020 U.S. Census report. The 2020 U.S. Surgeon General's Call to Action to Control Hypertension underscores the serious public health issue imposed by hypertension in adults, especially those in later life. Identifying new approaches to prevent this disease is, thus, paramount in an aging society.

According to the American Heart Association, nearly half of U.S. adults have high blood pressure, and many don't know they have it. High blood pressure is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease and stroke.

"We have come to better appreciate that health is influenced by more than just the traditional risk factors we know to be so important. This paper is a provocative reminder of the need to expand our understanding of additional health factors that may even be influenced by our environments and potentially impact our biology at the endothelial level," said Willie Lawrence, M.D., chair of the American Heart Association's National Hypertension Control Initiative's (NHCI) Oversight Committee. "Inclusive research on hypertension must continue to be a priority to better understand and address the condition."

Due to the study's observational approach, cause and effect cannot be inferred, limiting the researchers' ability to identify with certainty that only some bacteria are related to lower risk of hypertension while others are related to higher risk. A randomized trial would provide the evidence necessary to confirm which bacteria were causal agents in developing -- or not developing -- hypertension over time, according to LaMonte.

Co-authors are Joshua H. Gordon, M.D., Ph.D.; Patricia Diaz-Moreno, D.D.S., Ph.D.; Christopher A. Andrews, Ph.D.; Daichi Shimbo, M.D.; Kathleen M. Hovey, M.S.; Michael J. Buck, Ph.D.; and Jean Wactawski-Wende, Ph.D.

The study was funded by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, the National Institute for Dental and Craniofacial Research and the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, which are divisions of the National Institutes of Health (NIH); the U.S. Army Reserve Medical Corps; the Women's Health Initiative program (Coordinating Center, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center); and the University at Buffalo Clinical Translational Science Institute.