FAQs

If you're like most people, you probably have a lot of questions about cosmetic dentistry and what it can do for you. The following is a list of commonly asked questions that might address some of your concerns.

How does Dr. Taxin keep up-to-date on all of the current techniques and materials?

Dr. Taxin subscribes to the latest industry journals to keep tabs on research and development in the dental industry. He also takes time on a regular basis for continuing education, and ensures that his staff does the same. As a team and as individuals, our Cortlandt Manor dental office makes it our responsibility to be familiar with the latest techniques and materials available.

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Can you show me what my smile can look like ahead of time with some of that fancy imaging stuff?

Yes! We routinely use dental imaging to help our patients visualize the end results of cosmetic and restorative work. By simply asking the right questions, taking various photos of your current smile, and keying in the correct input into the computer, we can generate a realistic graphic image to demonstrate accurately how your procedure will affect your smile.

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Do you accept my insurance plan?

Dr. Taxin does not participate in any dental insurance plans. Why? Because dental insurance was established to make an adequate level of dental care available to the greatest number of people possible.

Dr. Taxin believes that his patients deserve the most advanced dental care available. His fees reflect the quality care he provides. Unfortunately, insurance coverage hasn't progressed as quickly as dentistry has.

From the latest technologies and comprehensive procedures that conserve natural tooth structure and promote health far longer than others, to materials that are superior in strength, safety and appearance than metal, Dr. Taxin insists on the highest quality throughout every aspect of the dental care he provides. There are other cheaper alternatives, but they are probably not in the best interest of your dental health or the beauty of your smile.

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What different payment options you provide?

We accept cash, personal checks, and all major credit cards. We can also help you structure a payment plan that fits in your budget. For expensive or extensive procedures, we're also pleased to offer financing plans through CareCredit.

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How can I have whiter teeth?

There are a number of procedures available to help whiten your smile, from at-home bleaching products to in-office supervised treatments. Dr. Taxin can help evaluate your potential for whitening your teeth, based on their current color and the causes of any discoloration. Once you have decided on the most appropriate method, you'll probably spend anywhere from 2 to 4 weeks undergoing a series of simple teeth whitening treatments. Most patients can expect to end up with teeth approximately 2 shades brighter on the dental shade chart.

The Britesmile Professional Teeth whitening treatment consists of a gentle hydrogen-peroxide gel activated by a special gas plasma light. The science behind BriteSmile is the secret to our success. The BriteSmile gas plasma light technology, combined with a proprietary new, wavelength-specific gentle bleaching gel, has created a revolutionary method of teeth whitening which quickly, safely and effectively whitens all teeth at once.

Click here to read an article about
the growing trend of teeth whitening.

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What makes you different than any other dental practice I can visit?

When you become a patient of our practice, we think of you as a person, not just another set of teeth to fix and clean. Our goal is to help you obtain and then maintain the best possible oral health. So, we take time to understand your dental history and evaluate the best options for your particular dental needs. Plus, we help you understand the whys and wherefores of preventive care through thorough patient education.

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Crowns, veneers, onlays, inlays and partials. where can I learn more about what you guys are talking about?

Our website is designed to help you learn all you need to know about the various restorative and cosmetic techniques we offer. Simply click on this Patient Library link, then select your article topic from the listing provided. Happy reading!

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I want my front teeth to look better, but I don't want to wear braces, what can you do to help?

Dr. Taxin has a number of ways to improve the look of your front teeth without the use of braces. For those who don't want braces or have worn down teeth, an all porcelain restoration can be bonded to your teeth to change the color, correct the alignment and give you that ideal smile with a natural appearance. It will take approximately 3-4 weeks rather than 2 or 3 years. Please view the before & after photos on our website. Call our Cortlandt Manor dental office for an appointment and we can construct a three-dimensional wax up model of your own smile possibilities.

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How do I know when it is time to come in for a checkup?

An average, healthy adult person typically benefits from a professional cleaning and check up every six months. While twice daily brushing and flossing go a long way towards maintaining a healthy mouth, it is wise to check for plaque that has hardened into tartar, which requires professional cleaning in order to avoid gingivitis.

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Do you accept referrals?

We are happy to accept referrals from other dental offices as well as from recommendations by our patients to their family and friends. Your referrals are our best compliments!

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What do I do if I have an emergency when the office is closed?

In case of a true dental emergency, please contact our Cortlandt Manor dental office voice mail and let us know the nature of your condition. We will return your call as soon as possible, give you helpful information over the phone, and then determine if you need to be seen immediately.

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I have a temporary crown in my mouth. What happens if it comes off or breaks?

If your temporary crown comes off or breaks, carefully wrap up the piece(s), place it into a protective container, and call our office to schedule an appointment for Dr. Taxin to re-apply it as soon as possible. Under NO circumstances should you attempt to re-glue the crown or crown pieces back into position.

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How can I ask Dr. Taxin questions directly?

We encourage our patients to have open, direct communication with Dr. Taxin. Therefore, he is available daily to answer your questions either via e-mail or voice mail. You can also click here to ask Dr. Taxin questions. Depending on office traffic and the complexity of your questions, he strives to respond within 24 hours.

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What precautions do you take to ensure patient safety?

Our entire practice team is well trained in state-of-the-art sanitation techniques designed to ensure patient safety. This goes beyond wearing gloves and facemasks to prevent passing germs, and includes a specialized sanitation center and a water filtration system guaranteeing a fresh water source for each patient.

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My gums bleed after I brush. Is this something to be concerned about?

It is certainly not desirable to have bleeding gums following brushing. However, the condition may or may not require attention, depending on the source of the problem. Bleeding gums can be caused by any of the following: improper, rough, 'scrubbing' instead of gentle, circular brushing motions; using a hard-bristled tooth brush instead of a soft one; plaque and/or tartar build-up below the gum line; or gum sensitivity due to gingivitis or periodontal disease. If this problem persists despite correct brushing and flossing methods or occurs every time you brush, contact our Cortlandt Manor dental office to set up an evaluation appointment.

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I really do not like visiting the dentist, is there anything you can do to help me relax?

We understand many people have qualms about having their teeth worked on. So, we strive to create a relaxing atmosphere. For entertainment and distraction, we have special headphones and DVD movies available in all rooms so you can keep your mind on more pleasant things. And for the more complex procedures, we also offer laughing gas and local anesthesia to keep you comfortable and relaxed.

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I brush everyday, but my breath just is not fresh. Is there anything I can do?

Millions of people struggle with halitosis, or bad breath, despite daily teeth brushing. Here is a checklist of procedures that can eliminate the problem: twice daily brushing, daily flossing, and tongue cleaning; regular professional cleanings, and careful cleaning of any dentures or removable dental appliances. However, if your hygiene is meticulous and the problem persists, we can offer several solutions.

First, we can provide a plastic tool called a tongue scraper that cleans away bacterial build-up on your tongue and significantly alleviates odor. Or, we can recommend a specially-prepared rinse or toothpaste designed to actually break the odor-causing sulfur bonds that cause bad breath. Finally, we may also suspect a systemic or internal problem such as an infection or underlying condition, in which case we may recommend a visit with your family physician or specialist to identify the cause.

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What is Smile Analysis?

A smile analysis determines the proper aesthetics with relationship to your facial symmetry, lip line and phonetics. Each person has a unique "perfect" smile; one proportional and flattering to your face. And with Smile Analysis, we can show you what your best smile can look like.

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What is Smile Design?

The highlight of smile design is watching your eyes light up the first time you look in the mirror at the change that has taken place. Our experience of watching our guests react to their new smile is almost overwhelming. We see an immediate change in their confidence and their interaction with others. The result is the creation of a beautiful new smile with a comfortable neuromuscular occlusion.

Typically changing the clinical smile is rewarding, but when clinical changes affect the psychological and emotional components---that is exhilarating! Most see dentistry simply as a repair and maintenance facility. But when patient lives are changed in such drastic measures, it confirms the reason many of us got involved in dentistry in the first place, which is to help others.

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