We get it—seeing the dentist for the first time (or the first time in a while) can feel a little nerve-wracking. Whether you’ve just moved, switched providers, or are simply ready to take control of your oral health, we want you to know: you’re in the right place.
Your first visit is more than just a checkup—it’s the beginning of a personalized relationship built on trust, comfort, and care. In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly what to expect so you can feel confident walking through our doors.
Step 1: Welcome & Paperwork
When you arrive, you’ll be greeted by our friendly front desk team. We’ll collect a few important details—like your ID, dental insurance (if applicable), and medical history. If you'd prefer to fill out forms ahead of time, we offer digital intake options to make check-in even easier.
Our team is here to answer any questions and help you feel at ease from the moment you arrive.
Step 2: Full Mouth X-Rays & Imaging
To truly understand your oral health, we begin with digital X-rays. These high-resolution images allow us to examine what’s happening below the surface—things like bone density, hidden cavities, impacted teeth, or early signs of infection that can’t be seen with the naked eye.
The process is quick, comfortable, and safe, using a minimal amount of radiation compared to traditional X-rays.
We also take intraoral photos, which are detailed images of the inside of your mouth. These help us identify visible signs of tooth decay, cracks, gum issues, or other abnormalities. Plus, they give you a clear view of what we see, helping you better understand your oral health.
Together, these tools give us a complete view and allow us to build a personalized care plan tailored to your needs.
Step 3: Dental Cleaning by Your Dentist
Here, your cleaning is done directly by the dentist—not a hygienist. That means you get the benefit of expert attention every step of the way.
During the cleaning, we’ll:
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Gently remove plaque and tartar
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Polish your teeth for a fresh, smooth finish
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Floss and assess your gum health
This hands-on approach allows your dentist to closely observe your oral condition and personalize your care from the start.
Step 4: Comprehensive Dental Exam
After your cleaning, your dentist will perform a thorough exam to evaluate:
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Any signs of tooth decay or cavities
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The health of your gums and bone support
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Jaw function and bite alignment
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Any signs of TMJ issues or oral cancer
This is also your time to talk! We encourage you to ask questions, bring up concerns, or chat about any dental goals you may have—whether it’s getting back on track or improving your smile.
Step 5: Your Personalized Treatment Plan
If we spot anything that needs attention, we’ll walk you through your options clearly and without pressure. Your treatment plan is tailored to your needs, budget, and timeline. We’ll also review insurance coverage, financing options (e.g. CareCredit and Sunbit), and provide transparent pricing before moving forward.
If everything looks great? We’ll simply schedule your next check-up and cheer you on for maintaining a healthy smile!
One-on-One Care You Can Trust
We know every patient is unique—and we believe your dental visit should be too. When you visit our office, you’ll never feel rushed or overlooked. Our dentist is with you every step of the way, providing focused care in a relaxed, judgment-free environment.
We’ve designed our practice to be comfortable, welcoming, and stress-free—because your experience matters just as much as your results.
Ready to Take the First Step?
Whether it’s been six months or six years, your smile deserves expert care—and we’re here to help you feel confident every step of the way.
📞 Call our Walnut Creek office today at (925) 705-7093 to book your first appointment.
📅 Or schedule online in just a few clicks.
