Creating healthy, confident smiles for life is our mission and we are glad you have taken the first step to visit us. Regular dental appointments are an important part of maintaining your overall health and wellbeing.

MEET YOUR DENTAL TEAM

• When you arrive, you will be greeted by our Patient Coordinator who will check you in, notify the team of your arrival, verify personal informationand guide you through any necessary new patient paperwork. You can save time by completing the new patient forms on our website in your appointment confirmation email before you arrive. A link to the new patient forms is also available on our website home page.
• Once completed, a member of our clinical team will escort you from the reception area to a treatment room where you will meet the dentist.  Dr. Patel or Dr. Gupta will review your dental history, medical history and any dental health concerns or issues. They will also ask questions to help start developing a personalized relationship.
• The dental assistant will then start the information gathering process by taking digital x-rays for the doctor to review. Radiation from digital dental x-rays is very low, especially in comparison to traditional x-rays. She will also screen your blood pressure and ask some additional questions about your oral hygiene habits. Your comfort is our priority, and we will work to make your appointment as smooth and comfortable as possible.

YOUR COMPREHENSIVE ORAL EXAM

• As a new patient, you will see the dentist for a comprehensive exam once the x-rays are completed. During your exam, your dentist will review your dental x-rays and complete an oral cancer screening which includes an examination of your jaw, neck, tongue and inside of your mouth. This screening is important and recommended once per year.
• A fully 3D digital scan of your upper and lower teeth will also be taken.
• This initial exam will take about an hour and is important so your dental team can identify any issues like gum disease or cavities. Based on your exam, your dentist will develop a personalized treatment plan and discuss options with you at your consult visit.

At your first New Patient exam visit, you may not receive dental hygiene treatment. This may be completed after the doctor ensures it is the appropriate treatment for your specific oral health. There are certain conditions that determine if dental hygiene is not the first best course of treatment. Once your oral health is stabilized, you can expect to have your exam and hygiene appointments at the same time going forward.

YOUR HYGIENE VISIT

• During your visit, the dental hygienist will discuss your dental history and answer any questions you may have regarding oral hygiene habits, signs of gum disease, or brushing and flossing techniques. You can discuss any concerns, sensitivity, or issues you are experiencing at this time.
• An overview of your mouth and gums will be followed by an oral cancer screening, then a thorough cleaning and polishing of your teeth. Your hygienist may clean your teeth manually with traditional tools or use an advanced water powered instrument based on what is best for your specific needs. Fluoride treatments are recommended by the ODA for adults as well as children, and your dental hygienist may recommend treatment.

Finally, your hygienists will review tips for caring for your teeth and preventing gum disease. Your hygiene exam time will depend on how much hygiene is required to get you caught up.  But typically, can be between 60-90 minutes. You will leave with a goody bag with a toothbrush, floss, and toothpaste to keep on track with your home health routine.

WHAT’S NEXT?

• Once you review your treatment plan with the dentist, a patient coordinator will meet with you to schedule any follow-up appointments, review payment options, and answer questions about insurance coverage of your recommended services.
• For each service you will receive a comprehensive breakdown of cost and time required. Our goal is to help you get the treatment you need quickly and comfortably.
• Don’t forget to schedule your next hygiene appointment and exam before you leave. It’s a great way to make sure you stay on track with your dental health. When you provide us a cell phone and email address, you will receive text and email reminders of your upcoming appointments.

We look forward to helping you take excellent care of your oral health!