Dr. Tony Machani is a man of many passions—food, travel, music—but none compares to his love for pediatric dentistry. When he’s not trying new restaurants, traveling with a camera in hand, or playing the piano, he’s creating joyful dental experiences for children.
Growing up in Nairobi, Kenya, Machani was drawn early to the world of medicine. In high school, he imagined becoming either a doctor or a veterinarian. But when his cousin, a pediatric dentist in the United States, invited him to shadow her, he discovered that dentistry is a perfect blend of art and science… and he was captivated.
His journey took him to Pennsylvania for college, where his sophomore-year internship at the Lancaster Cleft Palate Clinic exposed him to children with a wide range of challenges. Their resilience stuck with him, solidifying his decision to pursue pediatric care in dental school.
“Children just bring so much energy to the work day,” says Machani. “When they’re nervous, it’s really fulfilling to be able to change their perception of the dentist and guide them through the process of getting treatment done. At the end of the day, you’re able to make them feel like a superhero and have them walk out smiling.”
Moving to Austin was another leap of faith, marking the next chapter in both his personal and professional growth. He had always planned on starting his own practice, and Texas felt like the right place to plant roots. He began developing the branding and searching for the best location to bring his vision to life.
Machani ultimately chose Cedar Park for its fast-growing, family-focused community. Since setting up shop, he’s loved becoming part of a city where local businesses genuinely support one another and strive to provide high-quality services for their neighbors. He hopes to contribute to that culture through his practice.
He named this practice “Amani,” which means “peace” in Swahili—the heart of what he wants the space to embody.
“The vision was for kids to come in and not even know they’re at the dentist from the design. There’s a book nook and colors that make you feel warm and welcome,” says Machani. “I have a design team I’ve partnered with in California who do beautiful, unique practices, not the cookie-cutter style we’re used to. The theme of Amani is a safe space, like a bedroom or a lounge, where they can seek comfort.”
Amani Pediatric Dentistry’s environment is also shaped by Angie, his high-energy assistant who greets every child with enthusiasm. From the first interaction, she sets a positive tone that puts them at ease.
Parents sometimes come in unsure about next steps, especially after long gaps between their child’s visits to the dentist. Machani takes pride in supporting those families throughout their dental journeys, ensuring no one has to suffer through unnecessary pain.
“When you get to know them beyond the dental chair and create relationships, there’s this trust that builds. It’s just a very rewarding feeling,” says Machani. “The experience I strive to provide is not just treating teeth, but the whole person.”
Become a patient at amanipediatricdentistry.com or visit 2875 W Whitestone Blvd, Cedar Park.