Your New Patient Exam: What Really Happens?

At Belvedere Family Dentistry we are committed to making your new patient exam and cleaning as easy and as convenient for you as possible. Below you will find additional information on what to expect at your first appointment so you can be as comfortable as possible!

All new patients will need to fill out new patient forms to help us meet your entire healthcare needs. These forms can be found on our website by clicking this link or by going to our “Patients” page and downloading them there. We recommend, and encourage, all new patients to fill out all of their paperwork ahead of time to save time the day of your appointment. We ask that all new patients try to arrive 15 minutes before their appointment to get checked in and ensure we have all of your paperwork filled out properly. If you are running behind for your appointment, please call us, and if you are more than 15 minutes late, you may have to reschedule your appointment.

Once you are fully checked in by our front office team, your dental hygienist will take you back to begin your appointment. At this time your hygienist will begin your comprehensive exam and cleaning. They will thoroughly check your gums and your entire mouth, and perform x-rays. X-rays are a great way to find further problems that may not be detectable during your regular visual or tactile exam. 

After this is complete, you will then be seen by your dentist. Did you know that your dentist completes an oral cancer screening every time you come in for a dental exam? This is done by checking your gums carefully, the inside of your cheeks, and your tongue, as well as looking at the roof and floor of your mouth. In addition to screening for oral cancer, your dentist will look for any cavities, gum disease, excessive wear, and many other issues!

If there are any concerns after your examination, your dentist will provide you with the proper treatment plan. Our front office will guide you through payment options to get the work completed, help you schedule your next appointment, and answer any further questions you may have. 

It is our goal to make your first appointment with us a great one. If you have any questions regarding your new patient exam, give us a call at (704) 927- 5499. We are happy to help!