First Visit to Phye Family Dentistry
Thank you for choosing our office, where we have created a comfortable environment in which you can feel confident about the dental care you receive. During your first visit, our objective is to get to know you better, to become familiar with your past dental experiences and to establish a treatment plan that will best meet your dental needs.
Here’s what to expect at your dental first visit.
When you arrive, you will be greeted by our front desk personnel who will check you in, notify the team of your arrival, verify insurance (if applicable), and guide you through any necessary new patient paperwork. You can save time by completing the new patient forms in your appointment confirmation email before you arrive.
Once completed, a member of our clinical team will escort you from the waiting room to a treatment room where they will review your dental history, medical history, and any dental health concerns or issues. The dental assistant will take your blood pressure and capture digital x-rays for the doctor to review.
Your Comprehensive Exam
As a new patient, you will first see the dentist for a comprehensive exam. During this exam, the dentist will discuss your health history, and any concerns you may have. Your comfort is a priority, and we will work to make your appointment as smooth and comfortable as possible. If you are anxious about your visit, please let us know.
During your exam, the 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 is included in the cost of your visit.
This comprehensive exam will take about an hour. Based on your exam, your dentist will develop a personalized treatment plan and discuss the options with you. If dental care with a specialist is needed, the doctor will provide a referral.
On your first visit, you may not receive a cleaning. A cleaning may be completed after the doctor ensures it is the appropriate treatment for your specific oral health. There are certain conditions that determine if a cleaning is not the first best course of treatment. Once your oral health is stabilized, you can expect to have your exam and cleaning (hygiene) appointments at the same time going forward.
Your Hygiene Visit
During your hygiene 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. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends a fluoride treatment for adults and children.
Finally, your hygienists will review tips for caring for your teeth and preventing gum disease. Your hygiene exam should take about 45 to 60 minutes, and you will leave with a toothbrush, dental 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 clinical staff member will take you to the patient checkout area. A Patient Coordinator will meet with you to schedule any follow-up appointments, discuss your treatment plan, review payment options, and answer questions about insurance coverage.
For each service you will receive a comprehensive breakdown of costs and insurance coverage. Financing options such as CareCredit® are available plus our in-house Dental Savings Club. 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 terrific way to make sure you stay on track with your dental health. When you provide us with a cell phone and email address, you will receive text and email reminders of your upcoming appointments.
