• Location and convenience
• Available services
• The dentist’s experience and approach to patient care
• Office environment and staff friendliness

When you call to schedule, be prepared to provide basic information, including your medical history, insurance details (if applicable), and any specific concerns you may have about your oral health.

• Complete New Patient Forms- Many dental offices offer online forms that you can fill out before your visit. If not, you may need to arrive early to complete paperwork.


• Gather Medical and Dental History- Be ready to discuss any health conditions, medications, allergies, and past dental treatments.


• List Your Concerns- If you have tooth pain, sensitivity, or cosmetic concerns, write them down so you don’t forget to discuss them with your dentist.


• Brush and Floss Your Teeth- While the dentist will clean your teeth, arriving with good oral hygiene is recommended.


• Bring Dental Insurance Information: If you have dental insurance, bring your insurance card to help with billing.

• Confirm your appointment details
• Collect any necessary documents and insurance information
• Provide any additional forms to complete

If you have dental anxiety, let the staff know. Many offices are equipped to help patients feel more comfortable through calming techniques, explanations, and personalized care.

• The Dental Hygienist- A trained professional who will assess your oral hygiene, clean your teeth, and educate you on proper care.


• The Dentist- The doctor who will examine your teeth, gums, and overall oral health, discuss any concerns, and create a treatment plan if needed.


• Dental Assistants- They may assist the dentist and hygienist with procedures and take X-rays.

• Any pain or discomfort you are experiencing
• Previous dental work or surgeries
• Daily oral hygiene habits
• Lifestyle factors like smoking, diet, or medication use
• Family history of dental conditions

Providing accurate information allows the dentist to create a personalized care plan tailored to your needs.

• Hidden cavities between teeth
• Bone loss or gum disease
• Impacted teeth
• Jaw alignment issues

X-rays are quick, painless, and essential for detecting problems that may not be visible during a visual exam.

• Checking for Cavities and Tooth Decay- Using special dental tools, the dentist will inspect each tooth for signs of decay, cracks, or damage.


• Examining the Gums- Healthy gums are pink and firm. The dentist will check for swelling, redness, or bleeding—signs of gum disease that may require treatment.


• Evaluating Your Bite and Jaw- Your bite alignment will be assessed to ensure proper function. The dentist may also check for signs of teeth grinding (bruxism) or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues.


• Oral Cancer Screening- The dentist will check your mouth, tongue, throat, and soft tissues for any abnormal growths, lumps, or sores that could indicate oral cancer. Early detection is key to successful treatment.

• Removing Plaque and Tartar- Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that can harden into tartar if not removed. The hygienist will use special tools to clean your teeth, especially in areas you may miss during daily brushing and flossing


• Polishing Your Teeth- After plaque removal, your teeth will be polished using a special paste to remove surface stains and leave them smooth and clean.


• Flossing and Rinsing- Your hygienist will floss between your teeth and rinse your mouth to remove any remaining debris.


• Fluoride Treatment (If Needed)- For added protection against cavities, the dentist may recommend a fluoride treatment, which strengthens tooth enamel.

• Review any findings and discuss any concerns
• Recommend treatments if necessary (fillings, crowns, orthodontics, etc.)
• Provide guidance on improving daily oral hygiene
• Answer any questions you have about your dental health

If follow-up treatment is needed, the dentist will explain your options and schedule your next appointment.

• Arrive on time and bring all necessary documents.
• Be honest about your dental history and concerns.
• Ask questions if you do not understand something.
• Follow the dentist’s recommendations for at-home care.
• Schedule your next visit before leaving to maintain regular checkups.

• If No Issues Are Found- Maintain your routine with daily brushing, flossing, and regular checkups.
• If Treatment Is Needed- Follow the dentist’s recommendations and schedule necessary procedures.
• If You Experience Discomfort- Some sensitivity after a cleaning is normal, but persistent pain should be reported to the dentist.