Your First Visit
Your first visit to our office may be scheduled with the doctor, or with one of our dental hygienists, depending on the reason for your visit. A typical non-emergency new patient visit includes an assessment of the health of your gums and teeth, an oral cancer screening, any x-rays that are due, and a review of your at-home oral hygiene techniques. X-rays allow the doctor to view the structure of the jaw, the position of any teeth that have not yet erupted, malformed roots, and tooth decay. We are happy to assist you in obtaining any current x-rays from your previous dentist so that we may take only those that are currently due. Depending on the length of your appointment and the results of your examination, you may be provided a cleaning at the time of your initial visit, or it may be scheduled for another day.
The initial visit also involves getting your medical history. Please be sure to provide complete, up-to-date information on your health – including any recent hospitalization or surgery, or if you have recently been ill. Also tell the doctor the names, doses, and frequency of any medications you are taking – whether prescription or over-the-counter products. This information will help the doctor to select the safest and most effective method of treatment for you.
Regular Appointments
Regular checkup appointments (cleaning, exam, and x-rays if needed) typically take 60 to 70 minutes. The interval recommended between checkups will be advised by your hygienist (usually 4-6 months). For your convenience, you may pre-schedule your checkup in advance and receive a reminder when it draws closer. This is especially helpful if you prefer a very specific appointment time or day.
