Your First Visit
What to Expect on Your First Visit
Your first visit will be unlike any other visit you have had at a dental office and you will be introduced to our practice through a comprehensive new patient examination done by our dentist. At this time you will also be introduced to the various types of high tech equipment we use to create and maintain beautiful and natural looking smiles. When you arrive at our office, our receptionist will give you a warm welcome and provide you with any necessary paperwork to be completed before your visit. After completion of all the required paperwork, one of our dental assistants will escort you from the reception area. You will then discuss your expectations and dental priorities with the dental team. The doctor will want to know about any past experiences and concerns you have about having dental treatment. If you have recent x-rays and other dental records from a previous dentist, it would be helpful if you could obtain these for us in advance. Expect the first visit at our office to take about an hour. We will ask a lot of questions regarding your previous dental history as well as your expectations going forward.
An Initial Examination
The initial visit will be comprised of an extensive examination including:
– Analysis of your overall dentition for existing restorations, active decay and occlusal wear
– Your smile’s appearance (teeth color, tightness or looseness of teeth, health of prior dental work)
– Evaluation of tissues surrounding teeth to evaluate any early signs of periodontal disease
– Evaluation of your bite alignment to check for signs of jaw dysfunction
– Oral cancer screening
– Evaluation of the temporomandibular joint and facial muscles
The doctor will also take digital photos of your current smile and of any areas giving you concern. These photos can later serve as an excellent reminder of how your smile has improved if you elect to undergo any cosmetic procedures. After your examination, the doctor will review all findings with you. With the aid of technology, the doctor will even be able to show you any particular issues that have been discovered on the computer monitor via an intraoral camera. With digital x-rays, your doctor will be able to detect any issues not visible to the eye.
At this time, your doctor will be able to recommend any restorative procedures you may need to improve or maintain your dental health. Recommendations may also me made on cosmetic procedures, such as porcelain veneers, that can vastly improve your smile. For each treatment presented, the doctor will discuss its benefits and risks associated with treatment. After we have determined a plan of action, our wonderful team will walk you through the financial commitment associated with treatment and explain any questions you may have. They will then work around your schedule to schedule you care. If you have any questions or concerns after your appointment, our staff is just an email or phone call away.
We look forward to meeting with you!
