First Visit Guide

New patient? Here’s what to expect during your first dental visit, from check-in to customized oral care.

Your First Visit

Visiting the dentist for the first time is a big step, and it’s natural to feel a mix of excitement and nerves. Here’s a guide to help you prepare and understand what to expect, so you can go into your appointment feeling more at ease.

First Visit Steps

We make first visits easy with a caring team, detailed exams, and a welcoming experience from start to finish. Check out our step-by-step guide to use as you prepare for you first visit.

1. Before Your Appointment

Scheduling: When booking your appointment, be sure to mention it’s your first visit. This allows us to provide any necessary paperwork and gather information about your medical and dental history.

Provide Information: Check your email for the New Patient Welcome email. This email will guide you through providing us all the pertinent information. Don’t have a computer, no worries! We will just ask you to arrive 15-20 minutes prior to your appointment to complete the necessary paperwork in our office.

Know the Office Policies: Should you need to reschedule or change your appointment, we ask that you kindly give us a 24 business hour notice.

2. Arriving at the Office

Paperwork: If you were unable to complete the paperwork in the New Patient Welcome email prior to your appointment, you’ll need to fill out forms regarding your medical history, any previous dental treatments, allergies, or medications. If you’re a child, a parent or guardian will complete this for you.

Waiting Room: After you check in, you may have a brief wait – although we understand your time is very valuable, sometimes emergencies happen. We invite you to enjoy a beverage at our coffee bar, and read through the various reading materials available to you, and there is also an area for children to entertain themselves.

3. The First Look – Radiographs

Radiographs: Radiographs are needed to complete a comprehensive oral exam and we will take these in order to get a clear picture of your oral health.

Bitewing Radiographs: Bitewing radiographs help us see things that aren’t visible to the naked eye, such as cavities between your teeth or issues below the gumline.

Panoramic Radiograph: A panoramic radiograph will allow us to see your TMJ joints, sinuses, and screen for any pathologies in the maxillofacial region.

4. Cleaning Your Teeth

Periodontal Screening: One of our highly trained dental hygienists will look through your mouth and collaborate with Dr. Weininger on whether a routine prophylaxis or further periodontal treatment is needed.

Professional Cleaning: If your periodontal health is stable, a dental hygienist will clean your teeth, a process called prophylaxis. This includes removing plaque, tartar, and any surface stains. The hygienist will also polish your teeth, leaving them feeling smooth and fresh.

Fluoride Treatment: Depending on your needs, we may recommend a fluoride treatment to strengthen your enamel and protect your teeth.

5. Examinations

Comprehensive Examination: Dr. Weininger will examine your teeth, gums, and review the radiographs that were taken. During this examination he will also perform an oral cancer screening – this is a full assessment including your lips, gums, tongue, cheeks, roof and floor of your mouth. He will also feel your neck and throat checking for any enlarged lymph nodes.

Limited (problem focused) Exam: Dr. Weininger will examine the one area that brought you into the office. At that time options for different solutions will be discussed and depending upon the type of treatment needed we may go ahead and provide same day treatment. Please note, same day treatment is offered only when time allows and you may have to be scheduled back for a subsequent visit.

6. Talking About Your Oral Health

Treatment Recommendations: After the exam and cleaning, Dr. Weininger will go over your oral health. If there are any issues, they will discuss treatment options, such as fillings for cavities, crowns for cracked or broken teeth, or orthodontic treatments for misalignment, just to name a few.

Preventive Care: You’ll also get advice on how to care for your teeth at home, including brushing and flossing techniques, diet recommendations, and tips on avoiding cavities.

7. Booking Future Appointments

Regular Check-ups: Typically, we will recommend that you return every six months for regular check-ups and cleanings. However, the frequency might vary depending on your oral health needs.

Follow-Up Treatments: If any treatments or procedures are necessary, we will help you schedule those visits at the time of checkout.

8. Leaving the Office

Post-Visit Care: You might feel a little soreness in your gums or teeth after a cleaning, but this should subside in a day or two. If you’ve had any treatments, the dentist will provide specific aftercare instructions.

Billing and Payment: Once your appointment is over, we will collect any fees or copays associated with your visit and discuss future payment options for any upcoming dental procedures we schedule. As a courtesy to you, we will also file all dental claims to your insurance.

Final Thoughts on Your First Visit

A first visit to the dentist may feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation and knowledge, you’ll feel more comfortable navigating the experience. The goal of the visit is to keep you informed, address any concerns, and help you maintain a healthy smile!

If you have any questions or concerns before your first appointment, please don’t hesitate to call us at 330-339-6414.