Frequently Asked Questions
When it comes to your oral and overall health, knowledge is power. That’s why, in addition to providing hands-on clinical services, we’re also happy to answer any questions you might have about your dental care. Below, we’ve gone ahead and answered some of our most popular FAQs, but if there is anything else you’re curious about that we haven’t covered on this page, feel free to give us a call any time!
What is Holistic Dentistry?
Holistic Dentistry is a treatment philosophy in which dental care is used to improve not just someone’s oral health, but their full-body health as well. Many issues that were previously thought of as simply “dental problems” can often be signs of much more serious diseases somewhere else in the body, and conversely, problems with the teeth can potentially affect the entire body as well. This is why Dr. McCarthy only uses metal free options in her fillings and restorations, plus she provides the most conservative treatment possible in order to preserve as much natural dental structure as she can.
We aim to improve your oral/systemic health relationship with every visit. Our office has a true passion for dentistry, thrives on teamwork and education, and is fulfilled by helping patients achieve & maintain healthy, beautiful smiles. We believe that your mouth is the gateway to the rest of your body, so the state of your oral health will influence the health of the rest of your body.
Do you see whole families?
Yes! We understand how stressful it can be when you’re constantly shuffling loved ones around to different offices. That’s why Dr. Shannon McCarthy’s practice is perfectly suited for the whole family, offering a wide range of services that benefit smiles at every stage of life.
My gums bleed whenever I brush and floss. Is this a problem?
Bleeding gums is usually a sign that something’s wrong. You may be brushing and flossing too rigorously, or the more likely cause is the presence of periodontal (gum) disease. This dangerous infection will only get worse the longer it’s left untreated – that’s why we strongly recommend that you schedule an appointment here in Williamsville, NY right away so that we can diagnose your condition and provide effective therapy that will restore your oral health.
Dental care makes me nervous. How can you help me relax?
Helping you feel comfortable and at ease during your treatment is really important to our team, which is why multiple sedation dentistry techniques are available. In fact, Dr. McCarthy has undergone advanced training in dental anesthesiology, so you can trust in her approach.
How long will it take to get my new dental crown?
Traditionally, patients would have to attend multiple appointments to get the permanent dental work they desperately needed, but thankfully, this is no longer the case with the state-of-the-art E4D system! Now, Dr. McCarthy can capture digital impressions, design the ideal restoration, craft it right here in-office with the milling unit, and place it within the patient’s mouth all within the space of a single, convenient appointment.
Will I get to see the dog when I visit?
Yes. Luc is at the office most days and waits patiently behind the desk if you want to meet him. Remember, Luc is a poodle and is hypoallergenic.
Do you take my insurance?
Our office is not contracted with most insurances, as we feel the patient should receive the best care possible without the restrictions that insurance companies demand from dentists under their contract. Because of this, you are in control of what is right for your health instead of an insurance carrier! Many of our patients do have dental benefits that are eligible for coverage at our office, and our team will happily fill out all the paperwork and file the claims on your behalf for virtually every PPO plan.
We do not have coverage available for Medicaid, CHIP, Fidelis, UnitedHealthcare or Medicare because these companies dictate that their policy holders only receive care in offices within their network.
Contact Us
Shannon H. McCarthy DDS is located at
777 Hopkins Road
Williamsville, NY
14221
