YOUR FIRST APPOINTMENT

Your first visit to our office is the most important one. It gives both of us an opportunity to get to know each other. Establishing a good relationship is vital to achieving our common goals. This time together will allow you to express your ideas, concerns, and desires regarding your dental care and help us know how we can best serve you.

For some patients, the first visit is an emergency or for a specific urgent concern. Of course, we will attend to the emergency situation first and make you comfortable.

If there is not an emergency concern, the first visit typically involves a comprehensive exam and diagnosis. This takes approximately one and half-hours. This time is necessary to accomplish several goals. After chatting and understanding your concerns as a patient, we will review your medical and dental histories. Necessary x-rays, and in some cases, models and photographs will be made. Then we will do a thorough evaluation of your oral health. This will include a cancer screening and an evaluation of the health of the gums and supporting bone. Each tooth will be examined for decay or defective restorations. Depending on your needs, we may show you conditions in your mouth using our intra-oral camera. You will be able to see your teeth in a whole new way on a television monitor. We also may use computerized digital imaging to give you a preview of what cosmetic changes might look like.

If the necessary or desired treatment is uncomplicated, your treatment options may be discussed at this visit. If your condition requires complex planning, a separate consultation, or "review of findings" may be needed. There is no additional charge for this visit.

Typically, a "cleaning" is not done during the first visit. Experience has shown us that every patient's needs are different. We cannot anticipate what kind of cleaning a patient needs or how much time is required without an examination. In order to provide the best treatment possible, the appropriate amount of time should be reserved for preventive care. After the first visit, cleaning and checkups will be done at the same time.