When you visit a new dental practice for the first time, it’s more than understandable to have mixed feelings. You may be a tad curious, a little nervous, or perhaps, even relieved that you’ve finally taken that important first step.
At Molonglo Dental Surgery, we want you to feel welcomed and appreciated. By giving you a heads up of what you can expect on your initial visit, we hope to make your first experience as positive and productive as possible. When you make an appointment the staff will send you a link to fill up the new patient form to be done at your convenience before the appointment.
Warm Welcome
Expect to be greeted with a warm welcome from our front desk team as you step in through the entrance. Our friendly team will guide you through a quick registration process if you have not been able to fill the form before coming. Here, you would be asked to complete a patient history form covering: Your general health; any medications you’re currently taking; and your dental history.
Do not rush but take some time to go through the form carefully. The information you provide would help us to tailor your care appropriately.
The Comprehensive Examination
Once you’re comfortably reclined on the chair, your Canberra dentist will proceed to conduct a thorough dental examination. The dentist would properly investigate your teeth, gums, jaw, bite and surrounding oral tissues for any underlying issues or areas that may warrant concern. More than just a quick glance and a polish, the initial examination involves a methodical assessment designed to establish a complete baseline for your oral health.
The dentist will be checking for the following:
- Tooth decay;
- Gum disease;
- Bite irregularities;
- Jaw joint issues, and;
- Any early indicators of oral cancer.
X-rays are often taken during your initial visit as it would give us a clearer picture of the state of your teeth and gums, and what may be hiding beneath the surface. The x-rays afford the dentist a visual understanding of what is happening in the roots, between the teeth and within the jawbone. These images are invaluable for detecting problems that simply aren’t visible to the naked eye. Left undetected, these problems could develop into something much more serious. The xrays are case specific but your dentist will decide if needed.
Scale and Clean
In most cases, a scale and clean will be performed during or shortly after your initial examination. This routine procedure is designed to remove the built-up plaque and tartar (also known as calculus). It thoroughly cleans what regular brushing and flossing alone cannot address. The hygienist or dentist would also provide personalised guidance on your brushing and flossing technique. It matters how you clean your teeth at home just as much as what we do in the dental chair.
The Conversation
This is perhaps the most important part of your first visit: The conversation that follows the examination. Once the dental exam and professional cleaning have been administered, our dentist will walk you through their findings They will explain the results and findings of the oral exam in plain language, outlining any treatment recommendations without the use of jargon.
Your teeth and gums are essential components of your overall health and wellness. Therefore it is imperative that you have a full understanding of what is exactly going on in your mouth and what your options are.
A fruitful session often involves your participation as well. The initial consult presents a great opportunity for you to: Raise concerns; ask questions; and share any past dental experiences that have shaped your attitudes towards dental care. Nothing you say will be dismissed or minimised.
What to Bring
Please remember to bring along the following:
- A list of any medications you’re currently taking (including over-the-counter supplements);
- Your private health insurance details, and:
- Any previous dental records or X-rays (if you have them). If you’ve had recent X-rays taken elsewhere, bringing them avoids unnecessary repetition and gives your new dentist a valuable point of comparison.
It helps to arrive slightly earlier (about 10 – 15 minutes) than the appointed time. That would give you a moment to settle in, complete any remaining paperwork without rushing and approach the appointment in a calmer frame of mind.Please let us know at the time of booking if there any concerns that your dentist or staff should be aware before they see you.
Building a Relationship
Your first visit to Molonglo Dental Surgery is as much about building a relationship as it is about examining teeth. The more we understand your concerns, your dental goals and your comfort levels, the better equipped we are to tailor our oral care maintenance or treatment to better suit your needs. Of course, it also means that every visit after this one feels even easier.
At Molonglo Dental Surgery, we believe that a well-informed patient is a more relaxed patient. We look forward to making your dental visit pleasant and welcoming.
To book your first appointment at Molonglo Dental Surgery, contact our friendly team on 02 6287 1222.
