New Patient Experience
What To Expect At Your First Appointment
Regular visits to your dentist are an important part of maintaining overall good oral health. Our mission here at Bender Dental Group is to help you achieve and maintain your oral health goals. Visit our office in Mountville, PA, today!
When You Arrive At Your First Visit
When you arrive, you will be greeted by a patient coordinator who will check you in, notify the team of your arrival, verify insurance if applicable, and guide you through any necessary new patient paperwork. You can save time by completing the new patient forms in your appointment confirmation email before you arrive. A link to the new patient forms is also available here.
Once completed, a member of our team will escort you from the waiting room to a treatment room where they will review your dental history, medical history, and any dental health concerns or issues. The dental hygienist will then take your blood pressure and any digital radiographs and intra-oral photographs needed for the doctor to review. This is a great time to let us know if you are anxious about your appointment. Your comfort is a priority, and we will work to make your appointment as smooth and comfortable as possible.
Your Comprehensive Exam
As a new patient, you will first see the dentist for a comprehensive exam. During this exam, the dentist and his team will discuss your health history and any concerns you may have and may take your blood pressure to ensure you are in good health. During your exam, your dentist will review your dental x-rays and complete an oral cancer screening, which includes an examination of your jaw, neck, tongue, and inside of your mouth.
This initial exam will take about an hour and a half and is important so your dental team can identify any issues like gum disease or cavities. Based on your exam, your dentist will develop a personalized treatment plan and discuss options with you. If specialist care is needed, then we will provide you with a referral and direct you to who you should see for the best dental care.
Your Hygiene Visit
During your visit, the dental hygienist will discuss your dental history and answer any questions you may have regarding oral hygiene habits, signs of gum disease, or brushing and flossing techniques. You can discuss any concerns, sensitivity, or issues you are experiencing at this time.
An overview of your mouth and gums will be followed by oral cancer screenings, then a thorough cleaning and polishing of your teeth. Your hygienist may clean your teeth manually with traditional tools or use an advanced water-powered instrument based on what is best for your specific needs. Fluoride treatments are recommended by the ADA for patients of all ages.
Finally, your hygienists will review tips for caring for your teeth and preventing gum disease, and you will leave with a toothbrush, floss, and toothpaste to keep on track with your home health routine.
What’s Next?
Once you review your treatment plan with the dentist, a patient coordinator will meet with you to schedule any follow-up appointments, review payment options, and answer questions about insurance coverage of your recommended services.
For each service, you will receive a comprehensive breakdown of cost and insurance coverage. Financing options such as CareCredit are available. We can assist you in applying in the office. Our goal is to help you get the treatment you need quickly and comfortably.
Don’t forget to schedule your next hygiene appointment and exam before you leave. It’s a great way to make sure you stay on track with your dental health. When you provide us with a cell phone and email address, you will receive text and email reminders of your upcoming appointments.
FAQs
How long is my first appointment?
Please plan at least 90 minutes for your first visit. The length may vary depending on your specific needs.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
New patients should arrive with identification, insurance card if applicable, and any forms that may be relevant, including health history or medication list.
Can my first appointment just be a cleaning?
In the past, you may have been able to schedule your first appointment with a new dentist for a cleaning. However, current standards in the dental field strongly recommend that a patient’s first visit with a new dentist includes a comprehensive oral examination, any necessary X-rays, and a thorough evaluation of periodontal (gum) health. This ensures that the dentist has a full and clear picture of your mouth and oral health before proceeding with care.
If gum disease is caught early and hasn’t damaged the structures below the gum line, a professional cleaning should be done. If the pockets between your gums and teeth are too deep, however, scaling and root planing may be needed, which will require other visits.
Are your offices accessible to patients with disabilities?
Our office makes every accommodation possible for patients with disabilities.
What do I do if I have a dental emergency?
For serious injuries to your mouth or jaw or swelling, go to the nearest hospital emergency room.
For other dental emergencies, including toothaches and pain, contact our office for a same-day appointment. If your emergency is taking place when the office is closed, please call to leave a message or for instructions on how to reach you.
Are you ready to schedule an appointment? Contact us today at 717-285-3030 to get started!
Phone: 717-285-3030
Fax: 717-285-2906
Hours:
Monday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thursday: 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM