Choosing to visit a new dentist (or even your previous dentist after a break) can be a little daunting! To make your first visit with us a much more comfortable experience, we wanted to let you know what typically happens when you first come to see us:
1. You will chat to one of our friendly reception team members.
You may have made your first contact with us online, over the phone or in person. Once you come in for your appointment, you will be greeted by one of our reception team members. Here, you will be asked to fill out a short medical history form, which will give us some necessary details about your general as well as your oral health. We recommend getting to the clinic approximately 10 minutes in advance to allow time to fill out these forms.
The girls in our team do their best to make you feel welcome, while looking after you in a caring and fun environment. While you are at Reception, they will be able to answer any questions you may have regarding the treatment and payment methods we have available.
2. Our caring dentists will meet with you.
At your first appointment, one of our friendly dentists will find out about you, your dental experiences and the reasons for your visit. You will be able to chat about your dental goals and your dentist will offer suggestions on the optimal ways of keeping your dentition clean and healthy.
3. Examination of your oral health
At this step, your dentist will examine your oral health. This is a painless procedure during which the dentist will assess the health of your gums and each individual tooth, as well as taking into account your bite and any missing teeth.
There are multiple areas in the mouth which are not visible to the naked eye. For completeness of the examination, dental x-rays are recommended at least once every two years and, if required, your dentist will take them at this stage. These will show any early decay present, as well as any abscesses within bone and the position of any teeth hidden within the bone.
4. A scale and polish
If any inflammation of the gums or dental calculus is noted on your teeth during the examination, your dentist will often perform the scale and polish procedure for you at this point or recommend that you have it done with a hygienist. This is a non-invasive procedure which allows your teeth to be as clean and shiny as possible!
5. We will schedule a follow-up appointment for you.
If, as a result of your dental check-up, your dentist recommends further treatment for you, we will schedule your next appointment to start the recommended procedures. This is also a good time to get an indication of the cost of treatment and our friendly Reception staff will be able to assist you with a quote for the proposed treatment plan, as well as find out on the spot how much will be covered by your health fund.
It is important that you see a dentist regularly and, when there is no further treatment you need, we will offer you the option of either booking in for your next check-up directly or being placed on our treatment reminder recall system.
Typically, your first appointment will take approximately 30 to 40 minutes and it is an easy process. If you are looking for a caring, friendly environment in a boutique dental clinic, come and see us at Fannie Bay Dental. Call and make your first appointment today!