Dental examination room with a dental chair covered in a white cloth, surrounded by dental equipment including a dental light and a computer monitor. There is a window with blinds, wall decorations of teeth, and a countertop with a flower vase and dental-related items. The room appears clean and well-organized, typical of a dental clinic. 
beauty, balance, breath

Patient FAQs

Cosmetic and Neuromuscular Dentistry in Burke, VA

At Pamela Marzban DDS, we believe that informed patients make the best decisions about their oral health.

Below, you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions we receive from our patients

  • Absolutely. Many of our patients invite their friends and family to join our practice, and we consider that the highest compliment. We’re honored by your trust and will take exceptional care of anyone you refer.

  • Investing in your oral health and smile transformation may be easier than you think. We accept cash, checks, and major credit cards, and also offer financing through CareCredit to make your treatment as accessible as possible.

  • Our Care Model

    We’ve intentionally built a patient-centered model that is not dictated by insurance limitations, which means we are out-of-network with most carriers. Payment is due at the time of your visit. However, we provide concierge billing and will file all claims on your behalf so your insurance company can reimburse you directly according to your plan.

    Dr. Marzban has been practicing in Northern Virginia for more than 20 years. While she is board-certified in General Dentistry, patients seek her out specifically for her expertise in Cosmetic Dentistry, TMJ/TMD pain management, and Airway-focused treatment.

  • Brushing cleans only about 60% of your tooth surface. Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between teeth, preventing decay and gum disease where your toothbrush can’t reach.

  • Dental X-rays allow us to see what’s happening below the surface—between teeth, under fillings, and along the roots. They help us detect early signs of decay, infection, and bone loss before they become serious problems.

  • Fluoride strengthens enamel and helps re-mineralize weak spots before cavities form. Whether through drinking water, toothpaste, or professional treatments, regular exposure to fluoride supports long-term cavity prevention.

  • These are deep-cleaning procedures used to treat gum disease. Scaling removes hardened plaque (tartar) above and below the gum line, while root planing smooths the root surfaces to help gums heal and reattach.

  • Bruxism is the unconscious grinding or clenching of teeth, often during sleep. It can lead to tooth wear, fractures, headaches, and jaw pain. A custom night guard protects your teeth and joints from damage caused by grinding.

  • Amalgam (silver) fillings contain small amounts of mercury, which has raised safety concerns in recent years. While the FDA considers them generally safe, many patients prefer tooth-colored, mercury-free alternatives for peace of mind. We offer safe amalgam removal and replacement with porcelain or composite restorations.

  • A crown is a durable, custom-made cap that covers the visible part of your tooth above the gum line. It’s cemented in place and designed to look and feel like your natural tooth. You may wear a temporary crown while your permanent one is crafted in our partner lab.

  • A dental crown strengthens and protects a weakened or fractured tooth. When a tooth has a large filling or visible cracks, a crown prevents further breakage and restores both function and aesthetics.

Teeth Whitening

  • We offer three effective whitening solutions to help you achieve a brighter smile:

    In-Office Whitening (Opalescence X-tra Boost): A one-hour, chemically activated treatment that delivers dramatic results without the need for lights or lasers.

    Custom Take-Home Whitening (Opalescence): Custom-fitted trays and professional-grade gel you can use at home for powerful, gradual whitening.

    Pre-Filled Whitening Trays (TresWhite): A convenient, prescription-strength option for easy daily use.

    Learn More

  • Yes. Both Boost and Opalescence are approved by the American Dental Association (ADA) as safe and effective. Mild sensitivity may occur but is temporary. Whitening under professional supervision minimizes risk and ensures proper application.

  • Whitening lifts stains from enamel but doesn’t alter its natural color. Results depend on your enamel’s thickness and tone as well as the color of your dentin (the layer beneath). For more dramatic or uniform results, porcelain veneers can be an alternative.

  • Most surface and age-related stains respond well to whitening. However, discoloration caused by medications (such as tetracycline), fluorosis, or trauma may not. In those cases, Dr. Marzban may recommend veneers or another cosmetic solution.

  • No. Whitening only affects natural enamel. If your existing restorations no longer match your newly brightened teeth, we can replace them for a seamless look.

    • Brush twice daily and floss once a day

    • Limit dark-colored foods and drinks (coffee, tea, red wine)

    • Avoid smoking and tobacco

    • Schedule routine cleanings every six months

    • Use your Opalescence trays for touch-ups as recommended

  • The ADA recommends whitening no more than twice a year for comfort and enamel protection.

  • Dr. Marzban offers a downloadable information sheet about general teeth whitening, procedure options, and its advantages.

    DOWNLOAD INFORMATION SHEET

Porcelain Veneers

  • Veneers can address many cosmetic concerns:

    • Discolored or deeply stained teeth (including stains that don’t respond to whitening)

    • Chipped or cracked teeth

    • Small, worn, or uneven teeth and edges

    • Gaps and uneven spacing

    • Mildly crooked or rotated teeth

    Note: veneers don’t replace missing teeth. For tooth replacement, we may recommend dental implants or other restorations as part of your smile makeover.

  • Yes, if you have good oral health: teeth free of active decay, healthy gums, and a balanced bite. We’ll evaluate for gum disease, decay, or signs of bruxism/TMJ. If needed, we’ll first complete gum disease treatment, bite stabilization, or other foundational care to support long-term veneer success.

    Learn More

  • No. Because we can match color and shape precisely, you can veneer one tooth, several, or your full visible smile. Your plan is personalized to your goals.

  • Only if you want them to. We can design a subtle, natural result that blends seamlessly—or a bolder transformation that still looks authentic.

  • Veneers bond to the front of your existing teeth. To achieve a perfect fit and natural profile, we typically remove a small amount of enamel so the veneer sits flush and in harmony with adjacent teeth.

  • Most cases take two visits a few weeks apart. At visit one, we prepare teeth, capture records for the lab, and place temporaries if needed. A master ceramist crafts your custom veneers. At visit two, we try-in, refine, and permanently bond your veneers.

  • Longevity depends on home care, bite forces, and regular maintenance. Modern ceramics are strong and stain-resistant. Published studies show excellent survival rates over 10+ years; many patients enjoy results well beyond that with proper care.

    • Brush twice daily and floss once daily (including between veneered teeth)

    • See us every six months for professional cleanings and exams

    • Avoid chewing ice or hard objects; limit frequent exposure to dark staining agents

    • If you clench or grind, wear your recommended night guard

Invisalign® Clear Braces

  • Treatment length varies, but most patients complete their Invisalign plan in 6–18 months. Thanks to SmartTrack® material, many see results in half the time compared to older systems or braces.

  • You may experience minor adjustments during the first few days of wear, but most patients adapt quickly. Invisalign aligners fit snugly, making it easy to speak, work, and socialize with confidence.

  • Aligners are crafted from SmartTrack®, a medical-grade, BPA-free thermoplastic designed for durability and consistent tooth movement.

  • Yes. Wearing retainers ensures your teeth remain in their new position. Initially, you’ll wear them full-time, then only at night as your smile stabilizes.

Sedation Dentistry

  • Sedation dentistry uses mild sedatives to reduce anxiety and enhance comfort during dental treatment. You remain conscious, relaxed, and able to respond to the dentist, but most patients remember little of their visit.

  • Yes. Sedation helps anyone who experiences anxiety, a strong gag reflex, difficulty getting numb, or physical tension during appointments. By keeping your body relaxed, sedation reduces sensitivity and makes treatment smoother and more comfortable.

  • Absolutely. When you’re relaxed, we can complete more care in one visit. Sedation is ideal for longer procedures, full-mouth treatments, or combined cosmetic and restorative dentistry appointments.

  • Yes. NuCalm® is a drug-free relaxation technology that uses neuroscience-based methods to calm the body’s nervous system. It combines a natural supplement, microcurrent stimulation, neuroacoustic audio, and light blocking to create a meditative, anxiety-free state.

    In studies and patient reports, 95% say they would use it again, and 98% would recommend it to friends and family.

  • Yes. In addition to NuCalm®, we offer nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and oral conscious sedation, depending on your needs. As a DOCS-certified provider, Dr. Marzban will determine which option is safest and most effective for you.

  • No. Sedation dentistry helps you relax without putting you fully to sleep. You’ll remain aware and able to respond, but most patients feel so calm that they barely remember the experience.

  • Yes. Sedation has been used safely for decades. We review your health history and medications, monitor you throughout treatment, and customize the dosage and approach for your safety.

  • You may benefit from sedation if you:

    • Feel anxious about dental treatment

    • Have a strong gag reflex

    • Experience soreness or stiffness during dental visits

    • Need multiple or complex procedures

    • Want a more comfortable, stress-free experience

TMJ

  • TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, the hinge connecting your jaw to your skull. It allows you to speak, chew, and move your jaw.

  • Common TMJ symptoms include jaw pain, headaches, clicking or popping sounds, jaw locking, facial pain, earaches, neck tension, or difficulty chewing.

  • Common causes of TMJ disorders include teeth grinding (bruxism), jaw misalignment, arthritis, injury, stress, poor posture, or muscle tension.

  • TMJ diagnosis can include a physical exam, bite analysis, imaging such as X-rays, CT scans, or neuromuscular testing.

  • Neuromuscular dentistry focuses on achieving optimal jaw alignment by evaluating muscles, joints, and bite function to reduce strain and discomfort.

  • TMJ disorders don’t likely won’t “go away” without addressing the underlying cause. If the problem is related to chronic teeth grinding, bite imbalance, sleep apnea, or joint dysfunction, symptoms can persist or come and go over time. Ongoing treatment may be needed to control pain.

  • Mouth guards and night guards are not the same thing as a neuromuscular orthotic. Orthotics reduce grinding, improve jaw positioning, and relieve pressure on the joints.

  • Poor bite alignment can place undo stress on the jaw joints and muscles, and contribute to TMJ.

  • Treatment length varies depending on severity, but many patients experience improvement and pain relief within weeks to months.

Sleep Apnea

  • Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. The most common type is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) which happens when the airway becomes partially or fully blocked.

  • Common symptoms include:

    • Loud, chronic snoring

    • Pauses in breathing during sleep (often noticed by a partner)

    • Gasping or choking during sleep

    • Daytime fatigue or excessive sleepiness

    • Morning headaches

    • Dry mouth or sore throat when waking up

    • Trouble concentrating or irritability during the day

  • If left untreated, sleep apnea can increase the risk of:

    • High blood pressure

    • Heart disease

    • Stroke

    • Type 2 diabetes

  • Causes can include:

    • Excess weight

    • Narrow airway or enlarged tonsils

    • Retruded jaw structure and small jaws

    • Aging

    • Alcohol or sedative use before bed

    • Nasal congestion

  • At Pamela Marzban DDS, we use a comprehensive, airway-centered approach to diagnose and treat sleep-disordered breathing. With advanced tools like the WatchPAT™ home sleep monitor, oral appliance therapy, and myofunctional therapy, we help you breathe more easily, sleep more deeply, and wake up feeling refreshed and energized.

  • Sleep apnea doesn’t usually go away on its own, especially if it’s related to a chronic condition. However, symptoms can improve with lifestyle changes and dental treatment.

Functional Orthodontics

  • Functional orthodontics goes beyond straightening teeth, but also focuses on how the teeth, jaws, and facial muscles function together to support healthy jaw development, proper bite alignment, and improved airway health.

  • Traditional orthodontics primarily is about aligning teeth. Functional orthodontics also considers jaw growth and positioning, facial development, airway function, muscle balance, and oral habits.

  • Functional orthodontic treatment is commonly used for:

    • Children with developing jaws and bite issues

    • Children with daytime and nighttime mouth breathing

    • Teens with crowding or jaw alignment concerns

    • Adults with bite imbalance or airway-related issues

  • Depending on the case, treatment options include:

    • Expanders to widen the upper jaw

    • Removable functional appliances

    • Myofunctional therapy devices

    • Braces or clear aligners

  • In some cases, functional orthodontics can help improve airway space by supporting proper jaw development and tongue posture, to help promote better nasal breathing.

  • Functional orthodontics treatment time varies depending on the patient’s age, severity of the bite or airway issues, and if treatment is consistently followed. Treatment can take anywhere from several months to a few years. Younger patients may see changes more quickly because their jaws are still developing, while treatment for adults may be longer.

  • Functional orthodontics may be used alone or combined with braces or clear aligners to achieve optimal alignment and function.

Microabrasion

  • Dental microabrasion is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that gently removes superficial enamel stains or discoloration to improve the appearance of teeth.

  • Microabrasion is most effective for surface-level stains like:

    • White spots

    • Mild brown or yellow enamel discoloration

    • Superficial enamel defects

  • Microabrasion is usually not painful. Most patients describe the sensation as mild pressure or slight rubbing rather than pain. Some people with sensitive teeth may feel brief sensitivity during or after the procedure, but it typically fades quickly.

  • Dr. Marzban applies a gentle abrasive and acidic compound to the tooth enamel, then polishes the surface to remove shallow stains and smooth the enamel.

  • Microabrasion is usually completed in a single visit depending on how many teeth are being treated.

  • Microabrasion can significantly improve the appearance of surface stains, but it doesn’t always make teeth look completely white.

  • Patients can resume normal eating and drinking immediately after treatment, though sensitivity may be mild and temporary.

  • Microabrasion results last for a long time, especially with good oral hygiene and regular dental visits.

Myofunctional Therapy

  • Myofunctional therapy is a type of exercise-based treatment that trains the muscles of the tongue, lips, cheeks, and face to function correctly. It helps improve oral posture and breathing patterns.

  • Myofunctional therapy can help with:

  • Both children and adults can benefit from myofunctional therapy, especially patients who:

    • Habitually mouth breathing

    • Have orthodontic concerns

    • Have jaw or bite issues

    • Experience sleep-related breathing disorders

  • Myofunctional therapy includes daily at-home exercises, as well as follow-up visits to track progress.

  • Yes, when exercises are done consistently and oral hygiene habits are maintained, results can be long-lasting.

Cosmetic Dentistry

  • Cosmetic dentistry enhances the appearance of your teeth, gums, and smile, while also improving oral functionality. Treatments address discoloration, chips, gaps, uneven teeth, and other aesthetic goals.

  • Common cosmetic treatments include:

    • Teeth whitening

    • Veneers

    • Dental bonding

    • Invisalign or clear aligners

    • Tooth-colored fillings

    • Dental crowns

    • Smile makeovers

  • While aesthetics are a primary focus, many cosmetic procedures also improve function, bite alignment, and overall oral health.

  • Most cosmetic treatments are minimally invasive and have little to no discomfort. If needed, we can use sedation for comfort.

  • Depending on your goals and oral health, treatment options for correcting crooked teeth may include Invisalign, veneers, or dental bonding.

Holistic Dentistry

  • Holistic dentistry, also called biological dentistry is an approach to dental care that considers the connection between oral health and overall well-being. Treatment incorporates biocompatible materials, preventive care, and guidance on nutrition, airway health, and lifestyle choices.

  • Holistic dentistry focus on:

    • Whole-body health connections

    • Biocompatible, non-toxic materials

    • Mercury-free and mercury-safe practices

    • Preventive and wellness-based care

    • Airway, nutrition, and lifestyle factors

  • Holistic dentistry doesn’t use mercury amalgam fillings due to concerns about potential mercury exposure, instead using biocompatible, mercury-free materials such as composite resin or ceramic for restorations.

  • Holistic dental practices conserving healthy tooth structure, replacing lost material (only when necessary), use ceramics that bond seamlessly and flex like natural teeth, and avoid metals that expand, contract, or stress your tooth.

  • Holistic dentistry can address:

    • TMJ disorders

    • Bite alignment

    • Sleep-disordered breathing

    • Myofunctional therapy

    • Airway-focused treatments

  • Patients should consider holistic dentistry treatment if you’re looking for:

    • Whole-body wellness

    • Preventive care

    • Airway-focused treatment

    • Integrative dental approaches

    • Non-toxic materials

 

Reach Out!

Experience the difference of dentistry designed for beauty, balance, and breath. To learn more about Dr. Pamela Marzban and our comprehensive cosmetic and restorative dentistry in Burke, Virginia, call 703-323-8200 today. We welcome patients from Fairfax, Fairfax Station, and across Northern Virginia seeking a truly holistic approach to oral health.

8996 Burke Lake Road
Suite #101
Burke, Virginia 22015

Existing Patients: 703-323-8200
New Patients: 703-782-4705

Book an Appointment