What to Expect at Your First Visit
A Relaxed First Visit
Your first visit is a relaxed 60 to 90 minutes with our team, and much of that time goes to getting to know you. We check your teeth and gums, talk through what we find and answer your questions. You leave with a take-home checklist and a clear plan from your new dentist in Orange, CA.
A Visit That Starts With Your Story
Many people feel a little nervous at a new dental office, often because of a past visit that didn't go well. We'll ask about your earlier experiences and what would help you feel comfortable, and then we plan the visit around your answers.
Our comfort menu is available from the moment you sit down. If you need treatment later on, we can also talk with you about sleep dentistry. Our goal is to make you comfortable and listen to your needs, so just raise your hand whenever you'd like a break.
Your First Appointment, Step by Step
You spend your whole first visit with our team, and it usually follows these five steps.
- 01
History & Goals
We start by talking with you about your medical and dental history, any concerns and what you'd like to improve. We also ask about your comfort preferences, such as how you feel about numbing shots or if you would like a few planned breaks.
- 02
Comprehensive Exam
Next, we check your gums, look for cavities and examine any fillings, crowns or implants you already have. The exam also includes an oral cancer screening, a bite analysis, a dry mouth screening and a TMJ (jaw joint) evaluation.
Because sleep, stress, nutrition and daily habits can affect your mouth, we may ask about these as well.
- 03
Imaging & Scan
We take X-rays as needed, along with close-up intraoral photos and an iTero digital scan of your teeth and bite. The scanner is a small wand that builds a 3D image of your teeth on the screen as it moves, with no messy impression trays.
- 04
Results Review
We review your own scan and photos on screen with you and explain what we see in plain language. If we spot a worn area or an old filling that is starting to break down, you'll be able to see it too.
For any treatment we recommend, we explain the benefits, risks, alternatives and cost. We also show you which needs are urgent and which can wait. You can take the plan home and think it over, since nothing needs to be decided on the day of your visit.
- 05
Next Steps
Before you leave, we go over your take-home checklist, which covers your next steps, home-care tips and symptoms that should prompt a call. We also explain your next appointment, including any hygiene care we recommend, and our team can help with insurance or financing questions.
Settling In for Your First Exam
Your mouth stays open for a while during the photos and scan, so lip balm and a soft blanket are nice to have before we begin. If the overhead light feels too bright, you're welcome to ask for an eye mask during the exam.
- Neck Pillow
- Warm Towel
- Warm Blanket
- Eye Mask
- Aromatherapy
- Lip Balm
- TV in Your Treatment Room
- Noise-Canceling Headphones
Just ask. Any of these are yours at every visit. Learn about sedation options