Your First Visit

A visit to the dentist can put you on a path towards a beautiful smile and good oral health. Taking care of any problems today will help you avoid serious and expensive health issues down the road. That’s why at Associated Dental, we are here to help you have a convenient, stress-free experience during your first visit and every visit thereafter!

What to Bring

  • Your current dental insurance card.
  • Completed patient registration forms; you can find them here. It’s always good to arrive a few minutes early to your first appointment to take care of the forms.
  • X-rays (if applicable). X-rays from a previous dentist or physician can be forwarded to our office.
  • A list of your current medications.

What to Expect

  • When you arrive, you’ll be greeted by our front office staff. They will review your forms and discuss the reasons for your visit.
  • Your initial appointment typically includes a comprehensive review of your dental needs and concerns, a review of your health history, and an exam by your dentist. In most instances, your initial appointment also includes a dental cleaning with your dental hygienist. Additional treatment may be scheduled for a future date. This careful approach allows us to properly diagnose and thoughtfully plan any needed procedures.

Dental History, Cleaning, and Examination

  • When it’s time for your appointment, you’ll be taken to an exam room. You will meet your hygienist, who will review your dental needs and concerns, and your health history. He or she will evaluate and chart your existing restorations and gum/bone support, review any x-rays, conduct a head and neck exam, and perform an oral cancer screening.
  • If gum disease isn’t an issue, you’ll receive a dental cleaning. We will also take a new set of x-rays if needed.
  • You will then meet the dentist, who will perform an examination, including:
    • A tooth-by-tooth check for decay.
    • An oral cancer screening.
    • An assessment of periodontal (gum) health.
    • A bite evaluation.

The dentist will discuss your current oral health status, as well as your short-term and long-term dental goals. He or she will explain any recommended treatments and answer any questions you have. Additional treatment may be performed the same day.