Let’s face it, visiting a dentist at any time isn’t something most people look forward to but those slight feelings of apprehension can quickly escalate when it’s a first dental visit to a new practice, This is understandable because as humans, we’re biologically programmed to fear the unknown. In other words, we’re far more comfortable with “business as usual” than we are when we’re in unfamiliar territory. course, one of the best ways to overcome anxiety is to understand it, so this is what this post sets out to do. By explaining what you can expect from your first visit, you’ll be better prepared and therefore hopefully, less apprehensive. So let’s get started…
Preparation
Before visiting your chosen dentist for the first time, it pays to come prepared and that means filling out some paperwork. By this, we really mean new patient forms. These can be downloaded from our website and filled out before your visit.
So why are they needed?
Essentially it gives our dentist the heads-up before your visit so they can understand your health history, speeding up the process while allowing you to have a safer and more pleasant experience.
Aside from paperwork, there are a couple more things you’ll need to do before your first dental appointment. You’ll need to:
- Confirm your appointment via text or phone – One to two weeks prior, our team will send you a message telling you that your appointment is close. Don’t forget to reply promptly so you can get booked in.
- Make a list of smile goals – Think about what you hope to achieve from your visits and how we can help you reach those goals. Often, when patients are involved in the decision-making process they are less likely to feel anxious.
On the day
When the appointment day comes around try to get there early, say 30 minutes before your due time. Don’t forget to allow for any traffic. Arriving early gives you time to register with the reception team. Once all the paperwork is done, you can take a seat and relax. When the team is ready you’ll be called through to the room where the dentist will introduce themselves and review your paperwork. He or she will verify the reason for your visit and discuss any oral health concerns you may have. Oh, and you may also be introduced to your hygienist.
In addition to a comprehensive examination of your gums and teeth by the dentist, our hygienist will give you a hygiene assessment focusing on gum health and preventative care. Note that if hygiene cleaning is needed, it might not always be part of your first visit. Instead, your hygienist may decide to schedule a separate appointment.
A word about X-rays
While not every dental visit requires X-rays, it’s normal to have them on a first dental appointment, X-rays allow us to take a closer look at what’s going on below the surface and coupled with your examination, will form the basis of any ongoing treatment plans. Don’t worry, modern X-rays are safe, quick and above all, comfortable.
Allow about an hour
In terms of time from start to finish, you should allow around one hour for a new patient assessment. First dental visits are normally longer than standard check-ups because there is more paperwork involved and the dental team is learning more about you and your oral health via processes like x-rays, checkups and hygiene assessments.
So, what happens next?
Once your appointment is complete you’ll be led back to reception where we’ll help you book your next appointment. Your dentist should have already gone through your personalised treatment plan with you, so an appointment may be required sooner if you need subsequent treatment, or in six months for your next check-up.
Our team can also advise on financing options and payment plans so you can spread the cost of successive treatment when needed so don’t forget to ask.
First dental appointment – The reality
As you can see, a first dental visit really is nothing to fear. It’s highly unlikely that any dental treatments are carried out at this stage other than a thorough examination and possibly cleaning. Instead, first dental visits are all about familiarising yourself with the team, and the dentist, with your current oral status.
At Mint Dental, we work closely with you to ensure you have a healthy, confidence-boosting smile. Our non-judgemental team are highly skilled at providing compassionate and gentle dental care in a relaxed setting and are ready to support you in your smile journey.
Schedule an appointment with Dr. McNeil and his team today! We guarantee you’re in safe and experienced hands.
