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How to make the best of your first visit to the dentist and what to expect
When you visit the dentist for the first time, the process is designed to be thorough and reassuring, ensuring a good foundation for your ongoing dental care. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:
- Check-In and Paperwork
- Initial Assessment
- Comprehensive Exam
- Treatment Planning
- Hygiene Visit
- Follow-Up and Care
Check-In and Paperwork
Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by a Dental Receptionist or Patient Coordinator who will assist you with the check-in process. They’ll verify your insurance details (if applicable) and guide you through any necessary paperwork. To save time, it’s advised to complete the new patient forms ahead of time, which are typically accessible via an appointment confirmation email or the dental office’s website.
Initial Assessment
A dental team member will then take you to a treatment room to discuss your dental and medical history and any specific concerns you may have. This step often includes taking digital x-rays, which are crucial for the dentist to evaluate your dental health with minimal radiation exposure.
Comprehensive Treatment Plan
The dentist will conduct a thorough exam, discussing your health history and any concerns. They may also check your blood pressure and perform an oral cancer screening, examining your jaw, neck, tongue, and the inside of your mouth. This exam, which lasts about an hour, is essential for identifying any dental issues like cavities or gum disease and forming a personalized treatment plan.
We also understand that every patient is different, we are committed to providing each patient with a personalized care they deserve.
Estimates and insurance
Based on the exam, the dentist will propose a customized treatment estimate. If dental insurance is involved, we will work hand on hand to explain coverage and send claims. We are also upfront with our dental fees.
Hygiene Visit
Your visit may also include a session with a dental hygienist, who will review your dental history, address any oral hygiene queries, and perform a cleaning and polishing of your teeth. This session includes an oral cancer screening and may involve fluoride treatment as recommended.
Follow-Up and Care
After reviewing your treatment plan, a patient coordinator will discuss follow-up appointments, payment options, and insurance coverage. They’ll also help with scheduling your next hygiene appointment and exam, ensuring you stay on track with your dental health.
Throughout your visit, the dental team will focus on your comfort and address any anxieties you may have, making the experience as smooth as possible. The goal is not just to assess and treat any immediate dental needs but also to establish a routine for preventive care and maintain your overall dental health.
Do you accept dental insurances at your dental office in Etobicoke?
Yes we do. We welcome most types of dental insurance, including some sponsored by the government. Please call the office to confirm eligible coverage. We kindly ask you to bring comprehensive details of your insurance coverage to your initial appointment including insurance breakdown and details so we can explain your coverage in details. We have put together a comprehsive guide to understand dental insurance
FAQ for Your First Dental Visit
Q1: What should I bring to my first dental appointment?
- A: If you have previous dental records like xrays, please bring them with you. Also, please bring your identification, insurance card (if you have dental insurance), and any medical records relevant to your dental health.
Q2: How early should I arrive for my first appointment?
- A: If you complete your forms online prior to the visit you can arrive promptly at your appointment time. Otherwise, arriving 10-15 minutes early is recommended, especially if you need to complete any paperwork or have questions for the front desk.
Q3: Will I get a dental cleaning on my first visit?
- A: Not necessarily. The first visit is primarily for a comprehensive exam and to develop a personalized treatment plan. If the dentist determines your oral health is stable, a cleaning may be scheduled during the same visit or at a later date.
Q4: What does the comprehensive exam include?
- A: The comprehensive exam includes a review of your dental and medical history, digital x-rays, an oral cancer screening, and a discussion of any specific concerns or symptoms you may have.
Q5: How long will my first visit last?
- A: You can expect your first visit to last approximately 45 minutes for the comprehensive exam. If a hygiene visit is included, it may extend to about 45-60 minutes more.
Q6: What if I have a dental emergency? Can you fix my tooth right away.
- A: Every case is different. Some conditions require premedications. Some conditions can be fixed the same visit. If you have emergency, please mention it to the receptionist at the time of booking and every effort will be done to address the concern during the initial assessment.
Q7: How do I schedule my next appointment?
- A: Before you leave your first visit, the patient coordinator will help you schedule any follow-up appointments or treatments. They will also provide information on how to receive reminders for upcoming appointments.
Q8: Do I need dental x-rays
- A: Dental x-rays are medically safe tools to gather more information about your teeth. It is essential to do a comprehensive examination to be able to properly address the dental conditions and dental x-rays are one of the tools that can help with that.
