What happens at a first dental visit?
Short answer: A first visit covers your medical and dental history, a full examination of teeth, gums and soft tissues, X-rays if clinically needed, and a discussion of what was found. You leave with a clear plan and an understanding of costs. No treatment is carried out without your agreement, and there is no obligation to commit on the day.
Step by step
- Medical and dental history. Medications, allergies, medical conditions, previous dental experiences and any anxiety. This genuinely matters — several common medications affect treatment and healing.
- What you want. A conversation about any problems you have noticed and what you would like to change. Some people want everything perfect; others want to be out of pain and keep their teeth. Both are valid, and the plan should reflect which one you are.
- Examination. Every tooth surface, your gums, your bite and jaw joints, and the soft tissues of your cheeks, tongue, palate and throat — including screening for oral cancer.
- X-rays if needed. Based on clinical need, to see what an examination cannot. See are dental X-rays safe?
- Discussion and plan. What was found, what needs doing, what is urgent versus what can wait, what the options are, and what each costs.
- A cleaning, sometimes at the same appointment if time allows and it is appropriate.
What to bring
- Photo identification
- A list of medications and supplements you take
- Relevant medical history — heart conditions, diabetes, blood thinners, allergies, pregnancy
- Previous dental records or X-rays if you have them
- Your questions, written down — they are easy to forget in the chair
If you are anxious
Say so when you book, not when you are already sitting down. It changes how the appointment is planned: more time, every step explained before it happens, and an agreed signal to pause whenever you need to.
Dental anxiety is very common, frequently rooted in a bad experience years ago, and it is not something to apologise for. Being told about it in advance genuinely helps us do a better job.
How long it takes
Usually around 45 minutes to an hour for a first visit — longer than a routine check-up, because of the history and the discussion at the end.
To book, message WhatsApp 396-8447 or call 622-6893. We open at 7:00am on weekdays if you would rather come before work.
Common questions
Will I get treatment at my first appointment?
Usually the first visit is examination and planning, sometimes with a cleaning if time allows. Treatment is normally arranged for a follow-up, and nothing is done without your agreement.
How long does a first dental visit take?
Typically 45 minutes to an hour, longer than a routine check-up because of the medical history and the discussion of findings.
What if I haven't been to a dentist in years?
That is common and not a problem. Expect a thorough examination and an honest, prioritised plan. You will not be lectured.
Will it hurt?
An examination itself should not hurt. If your gums are inflamed, some areas may be tender. Tell us about any anxiety or sensitivity beforehand and we will work around it.