Frequently Asked Questions
Easy Access to Fundamental Issues
We want to provide convenient, clear answers to all of
your questions, so we've compiled this list of frequently
asked questions and answers about our practice, philosophy,
and procedures. If there's anything we've left out, feel
free to contact us by phone or email.
How does Dr. Machen keep up to date on all of the current
techniques and materials?
Dr. Machen subscribes to the latest industry journals to
keep tabs on research and development in the dental industry,
and takes time on a regular basis for continuing education
and hands-on programs. He's also a sought-after lecturer
and instructor nationwide, on a wide variety of aesthetic
and restorative dentistry topics. Not only does he share
this information with our entire staff, but each team member
keeps up with their own areas of expertise through continuing
education as well.
How can I have whiter teeth?
We are pleased to offer a simple, effective at-home supervised
program. This ADA accepted system offers several concentrations,
allowing us to tailor it to each individual's whitening
needs. Further, its adhesive-type gel can provide results
in just days, rather than in weeks as experienced with other
systems. So if you're interested in finding out what whitening
could do for you, we'll first evaluate your potential for
based on the current color of your teeth, and the causes
of any discoloration. Next, we'll fabricate your own custom
whitening trays, provide you with complete instructions
on effective gel application and session lengths, and send
you home to get started. Most patients can expect to end
up with teeth approximately 2 shades brighter on the dental
shade chart.
Crowns, Veneers, Onlays, Inlays and Partials…how can I
learn more about these procedures?
With today's technology, materials, and advanced techniques,
we have many options for restoring weak, broken, chipped,
discolored, and/or missing teeth…bringing your smile back
to it's original shape and function. For example, we can
apply an all-porcelain crown, somewhat like a 'cap',
to cover the entire outside of the problem tooth. Crowns
are also helpful to cover large areas of decay after they've
been filled. Or, for smaller areas of decay, we can apply
all-porcelain onlays or inlays… similar to crowns,
but retaining more natural tooth structure. For unattractive
front teeth, we can create pretty, natural shapes and shades
by applying paper-thin porcelain veneers to the fronts.
For patients who are missing a number of front/side teeth,
we can create a removable partial denture, designed
for either the upper or lower jaw, made of all acrylic or
all metal. They're attached to existing teeth by means of
precision acrylic clasps, and must be removed for cleaning
after eating, as well as for sleeping. For more information
on any of these procedures, please feel free to talk with
Dr. Machen during your visit.
I don't like drills. Are there any other options?
Fortunately for patients like you, there is a relatively
new filling preparation technique known as ‘air abrasion’,
which both removes decay, prepares teeth for fillings, and
can aid in preparing teeth for other minor procedures as
well. Dr. Machen simply cleans out and prepares the site
to be filled by sending a blast of tiny, high-speed aluminum
oxide particles into the cavity itself. The particles hit
the tooth under high pressure, bounce off at high speeds,
and consequently blast away any decay. Air abrasion is quiet,
quick, relatively painless, and avoids sacrificing tooth
structure.
Do you accept referrals?
We’re happy to accept referrals from other dental offices
as well as from recommendations by our patients to their
family and friends. We request that a patient evaluation
form be completed prior to the first visit; we also appreciate
all recent records and x-rays to be forwarded to our office.
Do you accept my insurance plan?
Our office accepts nearly all of the major insurance plans.
Also, we’re well-versed in the latest coverage trends, and
are more than happy to discuss the particulars of your plan
with you prior to any treatments you may undergo.
What do I do if I have an emergency when the office is
closed?
In case of a true dental emergency, please contact our
office voice mail and let us know the nature of your condition.
We’ll return your call right away, give you helpful information
over the phone, then determine if you need to be seen immediately.
One of our staff is always available to help with such situations.
Is there a way I can ask the Doctor questions directly?
We encourage our patients to have open, direct communication
with Dr. Machen. Therefore, he’s available daily to answer
your questions either via e-mail or voice mail. Depending
on office traffic and the complexity of your questions,
he strives to respond within 1-2 business days.
