Visiting a new dentist can feel a little uncertain.
Will you need X-rays? Will your teeth be cleaned at the first appointment? What if you have not been to a dentist in several years? And what happens if the dentist finds something?
At Smiles by Bis in Oakville, a first appointment is an opportunity to understand you, your dental history and the current health of your mouth before making recommendations.
Here is what new patients can generally expect.
Step 1: Getting to Know Your Health History
Your oral health is connected to your general health, so your dental team will usually begin by reviewing your medical and dental history.
You may be asked about:
- Current medications
- Medical conditions
- Allergies
- Previous dental treatments
- Dental concerns or symptoms
- Past experiences with dental care
- Dental anxiety or fears
- Your goals for your teeth and smile
Be open about anything that makes dental visits difficult for you.
If you are nervous, have sensitive teeth or have had a negative dental experience in the past, your dental team should know.
Step 2: Talking About Why You’re Here
Your first appointment should not be only about what your dentist sees. It should also include what you have noticed.
Maybe you have:
- A tooth that feels sensitive
- Bleeding gums
- A broken filling
- Jaw discomfort
- A missing tooth
- Concerns about the appearance of your smile
- No specific problem and simply want to establish regular dental care
These details help your dentist understand what matters to you before beginning the examination.
Step 3: Your Dental Examination
Your dentist will examine your teeth, gums and surrounding oral tissues. Depending on your individual needs, the examination may assess:
Tooth decay
- Existing fillings, crowns and other dental work
- Gum health
- Missing or damaged teeth
- Tooth wear
- Your bite
- Areas of sensitivity or discomfort
- Jaw function
- Changes in the soft tissues of your mouth
A dental examination looks beyond whether you have a cavity.
The goal is to understand your overall oral health.
Step 4: Dental X-Rays, When Needed
Not every patient requires the same X-rays at every appointment.
Your dentist will determine whether imaging is appropriate based on your dental history, current oral health and what needs to be evaluated.
Dental X-rays can reveal problems that are difficult or impossible to see during a visual examination, including decay between teeth, bone loss and problems around tooth roots.
If you recently had X-rays with another dentist, let the dental office know. Your existing records may sometimes be transferred to your new dental team.
Step 5: Discussing What We Find
After the examination, your dentist should explain what they see. If treatment is recommended, you should understand:
- What the problem is
- Why treatment is being considered
- What your options are
- How urgent the problem is
- What could happen if you wait
- What the treatment involves
You should also have an opportunity to ask questions.
A treatment plan should make sense to you before you move forward.
Will I Have a Cleaning at My First Visit?
Possibly, but not always.
The amount and type of cleaning you need depends on your gum health and how much plaque or tartar is present.
Some patients need routine preventive cleaning. Others may need additional periodontal care.
An initial examination helps the dental team determine the appropriate level of care rather than assuming every patient needs exactly the same appointment.
What If I Haven’t Been to a Dentist in Years?
Come anyway.
The purpose of your first visit is to understand where your oral health is today and determine what needs attention.
You do not need to apologize for how long it has been.
Whether it has been six months or several years, the useful question is: What can we do from here?
Looking for a New Patient Dentist in Oakville?
Choosing a new dental office is the beginning of a relationship, not simply one appointment.
At Smiles by Bis in Oakville, our approach begins with listening to your concerns, evaluating your oral health and helping you understand your options before treatment decisions are made.
If you are looking for a dentist accepting new patients in Oakville, we would be happy to meet you.
Call 905-338-6684 to book your first appointment.