Are you a new patient at R. Renan Williams DDS? If so, welcome to our practice! We are proud to offer comprehensive dental care to families in North Richland Hills, TX and the surrounding communities, and look forward to getting to know you. Before you arrive for your first appointment, this guide will help you know what to expect and how to prepare.
What the First Dental Visit Entails
Your first dental visit will typically include the following steps:
- Comprehensive oral evaluation. A thorough assessment of your current oral health will be conducted, including an oral cancer screening. This provides us with valuable information that is used to determine your dental care needs.
- Teeth cleaning. Plaque and tartar are removed and your teeth are flossed and polished until smooth.
- Dental X-rays. Digital radiographs (X-rays) are made to provide insight below the surface, which can detect cavities and other potential oral health issues.
- Medical history. A complete medical history will be gathered to determine if you have any health conditions that may affect your oral health.
At your first dental visit, these services may be recommended:
- Fluoride treatment. For children, fluoride treatments are typically recommended at each visit. They are also beneficial for adults, especially those who are prone to cavities. Fluoride is a natural mineral that strengthens tooth enamel to resist decay.
- Custom oral appliances. Custom mouthguards and nightguards can be made to prevent dental injuries during sports or to treat bruxism (teeth grinding).
What to Bring to Your First Visit
To make your first visit go smoothly and efficiently, please bring the following items:
- Dental insurance card. Bring your most current dental insurance card. This will be used to establish your insurance coverage before you receive any services.
- Completed paperwork. Filling out your new patient paperwork prior to your visit can save time. Please bring your completed paperwork with you to your appointment.
- Form of payment. Depending on the services you receive, you may have an out of pocket balance due at your first appointment. Please bring your preferred form of payment, such as an HSA or FSA card or a valid credit card.
Benefits of Choosing a Family Dentist
Families can benefit from going to the same office for dental care. These are some of the reasons families choose R. Renan Williams, DDS.
- Schedule appointments together. You can make dental appointments for the whole family at once. The more convenient it is to receive dental care, the easier it is to stay on schedule with routine visits.
- File insurance once for everyone. If everyone in your household is on the same insurance plan, you can file it once with us and it will be on file for each member of the family.
- No need to change offices. Children who see a family dentist can avoid the transition from a pediatric dentist to another when they reach adulthood.
- Parents can set a positive example. By going to the dentist with your children you can model a positive mindset and reduce potential feelings of fear or anxiety.
Frequently Asked Questions About Your First Dental Visit
Does insurance cover the first dental visit?
If you have dental insurance, preventive care is often covered in full. This includes the oral examination, the dental cleaning, and X-rays in most cases. We can look into your insurance benefits and provide information at the time of your visit, or you can contact your insurance provider.
Will I have the opportunity to ask questions during my visit?
Yes, we will be happy to answer any questions you have about your dental care. For the first visit we schedule extra time for consultation.
At R. Renan Williams DDS we are dedicated to providing the highest quality dental care to families in North Richland Hills, TX and the surrounding communities. Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.