Before the appointment
Ask the office whether new-patient forms can be filled out at home, which is usually quicker than doing it at the front desk. Gather the basics: your insurance card, a list of the medications you take, and a short note about your health history, including conditions such as diabetes or heart disease. If you have had X-rays taken by another dentist, ask both offices to help forward them. A new dentist may request copies instead of ordering new images.
Write down what you want to ask. People often forget their questions in the chair, and a short list helps. Questions about fees and options are the most common, and the office should be ready to answer them.
What happens at the visit
The dentist or hygienist will ask about your recent medical history and examine your mouth, then decide whether you need X-rays. Depending on your treatment plan, the hygienist may use special instruments to check your gums for signs of gum disease. The dentist evaluates your overall dental health and carries out an oral cancer screening, which involves holding your tongue with gauze to check it and the rest of your mouth, then feeling your jaw and neck.
Many offices also clean your teeth at the first visit or schedule a separate cleaning. If the dentist finds something that needs treatment, you should hear what it is, what the options are and what each costs before anything is scheduled.
X-rays at a first visit
New patients often have X-rays so the dentist has a baseline for spotting changes later. How often X-rays are needed depends on your oral health, your age, your risk of disease and any symptoms, so you may not need them at every visit. Dental X-rays use very low doses of radiation, and the equipment and techniques are designed to limit exposure. If you are unsure, ask the dentist why a particular X-ray is recommended. More detail is in cleanings and checkups.
Signs you should not wait
Do not wait for a routine visit if you notice any of these: sensitivity to hot or cold, gums that are puffy or bleed when you brush or floss, persistent bad breath or a bad taste, pain or swelling in the mouth, face or neck, trouble chewing or swallowing, a jaw that pops or hurts, or a spot or sore in your mouth that does not go away. A medical condition or treatment, a family history of gum disease or decay, a dry mouth, and tobacco use are also reasons to see a dentist regularly. If something hurts suddenly, read dental emergencies.
Leave with a plan
Before you go, make sure you know what the dentist found, what needs treatment now and what can wait, how much it will cost, and when to come back. Ask for the plan in writing if it involves more than a cleaning. If you are comparing offices, the first visit is also your chance to decide whether this is the right dentist for you. Start with the directory of St. Louis Park dentists to find an office nearby.
Common questions
How long does a first dental visit take?
It depends on the office and whether a cleaning and X-rays are included. Ask when you book so you can plan your day.
Will I need X-rays?
Possibly. The dentist decides after reviewing your history and examining your mouth. A new patient often has X-rays to set a baseline.
Can my old dentist send my X-rays?
Yes. Ask both offices to help forward them, and your new dentist may request copies instead of taking new ones.
What is an oral cancer screening?
It is a quick check of your tongue, the whole inside of your mouth, your jaw and your neck, done during a checkup.
What should I do if I feel anxious?
Tell the office when you book and again in the chair. Dentists are used to explaining each step and pausing when you need to.