What will happen at my first visit?

Our goal is to become acquainted with you and your oral health needs through a comprehensive initial examination.

You will help us review your Health History questionnaire and discuss any medications, medical conditions or health issues that may affect your general health or dental care. Your blood pressure will be taken and recorded. If you have a severe congenital heart defect or malformation, artificial heart valves or previous history of endocarditis, or have an artificial joint, please call our office before your visit to discuss premedication. (if you ever want a list of your blood pressure readings for your M.D. to review, we will be glad to fax him/her a copy).

The examination itself includes an observation and palpation of your head, neck, face and mouth for any abnormalities (this includes a cancer screen). There will be a recording of all existing dental work, mal positioned or missing teeth, your bite position (also called occlusion), weak enamel, cavities, loose teeth and receding gums.

A gum exam checks around each tooth for pockets, swelling, bleeding or any sign of infection (that includes six measurements on each tooth times 28 teeth for a total of 168 measurements!).

Radiographs (x-rays) will be taken as needed and range from two on each side to check between the back teeth for cavities or a full series of x-rays which will record all teeth, the bone that supports the teeth and sinuses and nerves associated with the teeth. The type of x-rays depends on your dental health.

Depending on the findings of the exam, recommendations may be made for alternate methods of cleaning your teeth at home. Changes in your diet for optimum dental health will also be suggested.

Time is allowed before and after your visit to disinfect and sanitary-wrap the equipment, clean and sterilize the instruments and generally make the treatment area a safe and pleasant place for you. As sterile instrument packs are made up in advance specifically for your visit, a 24-hour notice is needed to reschedule your appointment. A fee will be charged for notice of cancellation less than 24 hours.

Your future treatment needs will be discussed at the initial examination or a special consultation appointment.

What will this examination cost?

The fee for this hour-long adult initial examination is $68.00.

What does a cleaning cost?

Cleanings are not done at the initial examination but will be appointed after determining the type of cleaning needed. This is based on the amount of plaque, tartar, infection and/or bleeding present during the examination. Basic adult cleaning fees are $56.75 per one half hour. If a special periodontal cleaning is recommended you will be presented with a treatment plan and fees or possible referral to a gum specialist (periodontist).

What about the cost of x-rays?

If needed, the cost of the x-rays depends on the number taken. The range is about $47.00 to $128.75.

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Office Financial Policy

We accept all major credit cards as well as personal checks and bank debit cards. Payment is expected when services are rendered. All accounts with a balance remaining after 60 days will be charged 1.5% interest. If you have dental insurance, please provide a card that we can copy or a company form that includes an address where the claim is to be sent. We request an estimated personal payment when services are rendered. If your insurance company has not made payment within 30 days of your treatment, the balance is your responsibility and should be paid in-full at billing. Checks received from your insurance company will be refunded to you if the account balance is zero, otherwise it will be applied to your account balance.

Thank you so much for choosing this office. We welcome questions and comments.