Building a Relationship of Trust
Going to the dentist for the first time can feel nerve-wracking. It’s normal to have some anxiety about what will happen and whether you’ll feel comfortable. The good news is most dentists focus on building a relationship of trust and compassion with new patients.
Learning About Your Oral Health History
During a first visit, the dentist will likely ask questions to understand your oral health history. This helps them assess your current oral health status and determine if you have any risk factors for dental disease. The dentist may ask about:
- Your general health conditions and medications
- Previous experiences with dental care
- Frequency of brushing, flossing, and other hygiene habits
- Food and drinks you consume frequently
- Use of tobacco or vaping products
Conducting an Oral Health Examination
After discussing your health history, the dentist will conduct an examination of your teeth, gums, tongue, and other areas of your mouth. They’ll check for signs of:
- Tooth decay
- Gum disease
- Oral cancer
- Bite and alignment issues
- Damage to tooth enamel
- Excessive wear of tooth surfaces
In most cases, an exam is quick and painless. The dentist uses a small mirror and probe to look at all surfaces of each tooth and surrounding gum tissues.
Taking X-rays of Your Teeth
The dentist will likely take x-rays during your first visit as well. X-rays allow them to see in between teeth and understand what’s happening with tooth roots, gum tissue, and the jawbone – not just the visible crown portion. Getting x-rays establishes a baseline to monitor dental health over time.
Discussing a Prevention and Treatment Plan
After the exam and x-rays, the dentist has the information they need to discuss next steps for protecting your oral health. They may talk about:
- Options for restoring cavities or other tooth damage
- Steps you can take at home to prevent new issues
- Dental cleanings and how often you need them
- Ways to protect against gum disease
Developing a customized prevention plan helps ensure you understand exactly what you can do for the best oral health possible.
FAQs About First Dental Visits
What procedures should I expect during a first visit?
At a first visit, expect an oral health exam, dental x-rays, a discussion of your teeth and gums, and recommendations for prevention and treatment of any issues.
Will I have my teeth cleaned at the first appointment?
Not always. Some dentists prefer to spend the first visit focused on a thorough exam, x-rays, and planning. A future appointment will center around a professional cleaning.
Are the x-rays safe?
Modern dental x-ray equipment uses very low radiation doses. Your dentist takes precautions to minimize exposure. The benefit of understanding your oral health outweighs negligible risks.
Do I need to bring my previous dental records?
It can be helpful but is not always necessary. Your dentist will ask for relevant details related to your oral health history and previous treatment.
What if I’m nervous about the visit?
Let your dentist know you feel anxious. They can walk you through each step so you know what to anticipate. Many dentists also have supports available if you feel very uncomfortable.
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