First Dental Visit
Many individuals, both adults and children, often feel anxious about their initial dental appointment. A more soothing first visit can significantly reduce this anxiety. It is essential for patients to understand the steps involved in the procedure to alleviate any fear of the unknown. We prioritize minimizing discomfort for our patients during dental treatments.
First Dental Visit Steps
Healthy Smiles offers comprehensive first dental exam
For Children
During the initial dental visit for a child, our dentist prioritizes creating a comfortable and relaxed environment. This first appointment is usually short and non-invasive to avoid causing any stress for the child. The dentist will conduct a careful examination of the child’s gums and teeth, looking for any early indications of dental issues. A gentle cleaning and fluoride treatment may also include. Additionally, the dentist will provide guidance on dietary choices, oral hygiene practices, and habits related to eating, teething, thumbsucking, and the use of pacifiers. The dentist recommends that the child undergo dental exams, cleanings, and fluoride assessments every six months as they transition from primary to permanent teeth.
For Adults
Time needed: 45 minutes
How is your first dental visit?
- Health History Review
In the initial consultation, our physician will assess your medical history prior to performing dental cleaning. Patients with significant health conditions, such as heart disease or joint replacements, their primary care physician might require additional antibiotic prophylaxis. The primary care physician will determine the prescribing of prophylactic antibiotics. It is essential to take these antibiotics one hour before the dental cleaning appointment to achieve sufficient medication levels in the bloodstream.
- Digital X-rays
Our objective is to minimize the number of X-rays taken while ensuring that we obtain sufficient diagnostic information. We utilize digital X-rays, which emit significantly lower radiation compared to conventional film X-rays. Together with a clinical examination, X-rays enable the dentist to develop a thorough dental treatment plan.
- Screening
Our dental professional will conduct both an intraoral examination (inside the mouth) and an extraoral examination (outside the mouth). This assessment encompasses a screening for oral cancer as well as an evaluation of the teeth and gums. Additionally, the dentist will assess for issues such as decay, fractures, erosion, abrasion, and wear facets. To check for periodontal disease, the dentist will measure pocket depths using a periodontal probe.
- Treatment Plan
Following a detailed assessment and utilizing digital x-rays, our dentist will develop a complete dental treatment plan. This plan encompasses periodontal procedures such as routine cleanings or deep cleanings, as well as restorative options including dental implants, root canal treatment, dental bonding, dental veneers, dental crowns, dental bridges, dentures, extractions, etc. The dentist will collaborate with the patient to establish the treatment priorities and outline the necessary number of visits for the procedures.
- Dental Cleaning
At the conclusion of the treatment planning process, the dentist or hygienist will perform a dental cleaning. However, the dentist will reschedule the patient if a deep cleaning is deemed necessary, as he typically needs about 45 minutes to an hour to perform a thorough cleaning.
The dental cleaning procedure consists of several steps. Initially, the dentist utilizes an ultrasonic scaler to eliminate larger deposits of plaque and calculus. The dentist will follow up with the use of a hand scaler to address plaque in between the teeth and in hard-to-reach areas. A dental professional subsequently cleans the teeth with dental floss and polishes them with prophy paste, a type of abrasive polishing compound.
During the final moments of the dental cleaning appointment, our doctor will discuss proper brushing techniques and emphasize effective oral hygiene practices.