THE FIRST APPOINTMENT
Your first visit to our office is the most important one.
It gives both of us an opportunity to get to know each other. Establishing a good relationship is vital to achieving our common goals of improving and maintaining your dental health.
For some patients, the first visit is an emergency or a specific urgent concern. Of course, we will attend to the emergency situation first and make you comfortable. If there is not an emergency concern, the first visit typically involves taking any necessary x-rays, a comprehensive exam, diagnosis, cleaning and treatment planning. This takes approximately one hour. This time is necessary to accomplish several goals.
After taking the necessary x-rays and intraoral photographs, your hygienist will sit down with you to discuss your concerns and desires of improving your dental health. She will review your x-rays along with your medical and dental histories.
After the hygienist cleans your teeth the doctor will then do a thorough evaluation of your oral health. This will include an examination of all of the "soft tissues" including an oral cancer screening and evaluation of the supporting gums. Each tooth will be examined for decay or defective restorations. Drs. Etheridge, Harrell, Balino, Doan, Rice, Doan or Spruill will then discuss and outline a plan for any recommended treatment.
