At Oak Grove Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Harris and our dental care team understand that some patients may develop dental anxiety regarding their first appointment at a new dentist’s office. Whether you have had previous bad experiences in another dental office or you are unsure of what to expect during your first dental appointment, we are here to help you through this process of transitioning to our Durham, NC dentist office.
To help ease some anxiety over your first dental appointment, read below to find out what you can expect during your first appointment at our practice.
What To Expect At Your First Dental Visit
When you first walk into our Durham, NC, dentist office, you will be greeted by our friendly front-desk staff. They will check you in and ensure that you have filled out all of the required documents. If you have not filled out any patient forms prior to your first appointment, you should bring any documentation that you think would help you fill out these forms. We suggest bringing along the following:
- Photo ID / Drivers License
- Dental Insurance Card
- Dental records from your previous provider, if applicable
- Any referral slips or letters
- A list of current prescriptions
- Preferred payment method
Once the required patient forms are on file for you, we will call you back for your dental appointment. One of our team members will escort you to an exam room, where a dental hygienist will begin to clean and evaluate your teeth. They will ask about any previous dental work you’ve done or any dental concerns that you are currently experiencing.
During the dental cleaning, they will perform a periodontal screening to assess your gum health. Additionally, they will remove any plaque or tartar buildup around your teeth and gums.
Once the dental cleaning is complete, your dentist will come and examine your teeth. Oak Grove Family & Cosmetic Dentistry is home to Dr. Chavala Harris, who is experienced in all aspects of general, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry. She will examine your teeth and address any dental concerns brought up during your appointment.
If necessary, she will provide you with a treatment plan for your dental concerns and inform you of what services would best meet your dental health needs and goals.
After your meeting with Dr. Harris, one of our team members will escort you back to the front desk, where you will discuss payment and insurance information. We will schedule your next dental appointment before you leave our office. Then, you are free to go. We look forward to seeing you soon!