Walking into a new dental office can feel like starting at a new job: you’re not quite sure where to go, what to expect, or if everyone will be friendly. But here’s the good news. Your first dental exam at our practice is designed to be straightforward, comfortable, and maybe even a little bit educational. We’ll walk you through your oral health history, take a close look at your teeth and gums, and create a plan that actually makes sense for your life.
At Green Lake Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Cherryl Ellison and our team focus on making your first visit as welcoming as possible. We know that dental cleanings and examinations might not be at the top of your fun-to-do list, but we also know that a positive first experience sets the stage for a lifetime of better oral health. So let’s break down what happens during that initial appointment, step by step.
Before You Arrive at Our Office
Your first visit starts before you even walk through our door. We’ll send you new patient forms to complete, either online or at the office. These forms ask about your medical history, current medications, previous dental work, and any concerns you might have. It might seem like a lot of questions, but this information helps us understand your complete health picture. For example, certain medications can affect your gums, and knowing about past dental experiences helps us tailor your care.
If you have dental insurance, bring your insurance card. We accept most major plans and can help you understand your coverage. If you don’t have insurance, ask about our in-house membership plan, which costs $36 per month and includes preventive care.
The Welcome Tour
When you arrive, our team will greet you and give you a quick tour of the office. We’ll show you where the restrooms are, where you can hang your coat, and introduce you to our technology. This isn’t a formal presentation; it’s just a friendly orientation to help you feel comfortable in the space. We want you to know where everything is and feel at ease.
An Honest Conversation Comes First
Before anyone looks in your mouth, we’ll sit down and talk. Dr. Ellison will ask about your dental concerns, what brought you in, and what your goals are for your smile. Maybe you’re dealing with sensitivity, or you’ve been thinking about teeth whitening for an upcoming event. Whatever it is, this is your chance to share what matters to you. We listen first, then plan accordingly.
This conversation also covers any dental anxiety you might have. Many people feel nervous about dental visits, and that’s completely normal. Letting us know helps us adjust our approach so you feel more comfortable throughout the appointment.
The Clinical Examination
Next comes the actual exam. We’ll start with digital X-rays if needed. These images help us see what’s happening below the gum line and between teeth, areas that aren’t visible during a visual exam. According to the American Dental Association, modern dental X-rays are safe and effective, using very low levels of radiation to provide important information about your oral health.
Dr. Ellison will then examine your teeth, gums, jaw, and soft tissues. She’s looking for cavities, gum disease, worn enamel, and any other issues that need attention. She’ll also check your bite and jaw alignment. If you’re interested in cosmetic dentistry options such as porcelain veneers or Invisalign, this is a great time to discuss them.
The exam usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes. We’re thorough but efficient, and we’ll explain what we’re doing as we go. You’re welcome to ask questions at any point.
The Cleaning
After the exam, if there are no signs of gum disease, we’ll professionally clean your teeth. This involves removing plaque and tartar buildup, polishing your teeth, and flossing. If it’s been a while since your last cleaning, you might feel some sensitivity, but most people find it tolerable. We can adjust our technique if you need us to be more gentle in certain areas.
If you’re showing signs of gum disease, we may recommend a different kind of cleaning to better address your needs. We’ll explain the differences and walk you through what that treatment will look like. Gum disease can often be stopped, and sometimes even reversed, with appropriate treatment.
The Discussion and Treatment Plan
Once the exam and cleaning are complete, Dr. Ellison will review her findings with you. She’ll show you the X-rays, point out any areas of concern, and recommend treatment if needed. This might include dental fillings for cavities, gum disease treatment, or referrals for more involved procedures.
We’ll create a treatment plan together, prioritizing what needs immediate attention and what can wait. We’ll also discuss costs, insurance coverage, and payment options like Cherry financing, which offers 0% interest for 12 months. You’ll leave with a clear understanding of your oral health and next steps.
Start Your Dental Care With Green Lake Cosmetic Dentistry
Your first dental exam provides us with a foundation to help you maintain a healthy, confident smile. Dr. Ellison brings a patient-centered approach to every appointment, taking time to understand your needs and explain your options clearly. Whether you need routine preventive care or you’re interested in transforming your smile with cosmetic treatments, we’re here to support your goals.
Our Green Lake practice accepts most major insurance plans, including Delta Dental, Premera Blue Cross, Cigna, GEHA, and Principal. We also offer flexible financing through Cherry and an affordable in-house membership plan for patients without insurance. Ready to schedule your first visit? Contact us today to get started.
