Your First Dental Visit
We want your first visit to be comfortable, informative, and stress-free. Here’s what you can expect during your appointment and how to prepare beforehand.
What Can I Expect at my First Dental visit?
When you see a new dentist for the first time — or it’s been a while since your last dental exam — you may be wondering what to expect at your appointment. Although each dental office is different than the next, your regular checkup will general consist of the same steps in some way or another, including:
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Medical History Review
Your new patient paperwork provides your dentist with important information about your medical and dental background. Be sure to bring a list of all medications and supplements you take, along with the dosage of each. Certain medications or recent surgeries may affect dental treatment, so it’s important to share this information with your provider.
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Digital X-Rays & Photographs
To fully evaluate your oral health, we’ll take any necessary dental X-rays. This may include bitewing X-rays, a panoramic image, a full-mouth series, or a combination of images.
Additional digital photographs may also be taken to help explain any findings and make it easier to discuss your treatment options.
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Consultation with the Hygienist or Assistant
One of our hygienists or dental assistants will review your health history, discuss any concerns you have, and help prepare you for your examination with the dentist.
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Comprehensive Dental Examination
After speaking with the assistant or hygienist, your dentist will perform a comprehensive examination and consultation. Areas evaluated may include:
- Periodontal or gum health
- Oral cancer risk and screening
- Existing dental work
- Bite alignment
- TMJ function
- Your primary concerns
- Any newly diagnosed conditions
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Proposed Treatment Planning
Your dentist will review the findings from your examination, discuss recommendations, and explain any applicable treatment options.
If immediate care is appropriate, some treatment may begin the same day. In most cases, your treatment will be outlined in a personalized care plan and scheduled for a future appointment.
Our treatment or insurance coordinator will review your available benefits and take your existing coverage into account when estimating the cost of your care.
Some patients do not require any treatment, which is ideal. Treatment planning is only necessary when an issue needs to be corrected or when you are considering an elective service such as cosmetic dentistry.
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Professional Dental Cleaning
If your teeth and gums are generally healthy, your hygienist will usually complete your professional cleaning during your first dental checkup.
If signs of moderate or advanced gum disease are present, you may be scheduled for a separate series of deep cleanings designed specifically for your needs.
To maintain a healthy smile, we generally recommend scheduling preventive care appointments every six months.
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Your Partner in Oral Health
Dr. Torculas and our team believe patients should play an active role in their dental care. We’ll work with you to evaluate your needs, explain your options, and create a personalized care plan that supports your oral health goals.
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Patient Forms
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Insurance Information
At Collective Smiles, we make every effort to provide excellent care and convenient financial options. Our team works closely with you to help maximize your insurance reimbursement for covered procedures.
Please bring your insurance information with you to your consultation so we can verify your benefits and help expedite reimbursement.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding your insurance or initial visit, please contact our knowledgeable team at (619) 582-5380.
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Financial Policy
Patient Billing
For your convenience, we accept Visa, MasterCard, and Discover. Payment is due at the time services are rendered unless other arrangements have been made in advance.
If you have questions regarding your account, please contact Collective Smiles at (619) 582-5380. In many cases, a simple telephone call can quickly resolve questions or misunderstandings.
Please remember that you are responsible for all fees charged by our office, regardless of your insurance coverage.
We will send you a monthly statement. Most insurance companies respond within four to six weeks. Please contact our office if your statement does not reflect an insurance payment within that time.
Any remaining balance after your insurance company has paid is your responsibility. Monthly payment arrangements may be available, but they must be established before the procedure is completed.
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Dental Health Resources
The patient experience in the San Diego 92115 College East community is just as important to us as the quality of our dental care. Explore the resources below to learn more about common dental concerns and procedures.
Please call us at (619) 582-5380 with any questions or to schedule an appointment.
