Your First Visit
A first appointment is easier when you know what is coming. Here is how your visit to our Sarasota office works, from the front desk to your treatment plan.
What to Bring
A few items help us prepare for you and keep your check-in short.
Insurance card
Bring your dental insurance card if you have coverage. We use it to check your benefits and file the claim for you.
Photo ID
A driver's license or other photo ID lets our front desk confirm your details and set up your patient record correctly.
Health details
Bring a list of your medications, allergies and health conditions. Your dentist uses this information to plan care that is safe for you.
Completed forms
Finish your new patient forms ahead of time if you can. If you have recent dental X-rays, ask your previous office to send them over.
What Happens During Your Visit
Most first visits follow the same four steps.
Check-in
Our front desk team greets you, collects your forms and insurance details, and answers any questions about your coverage before you head back to a treatment room.
X-rays
We take a full set of X-rays so your dentist can see areas that are not visible in a regular exam, such as between the teeth and below the gumline.
Comprehensive exam
Your dentist checks your teeth, gums and bite, reviews your X-rays with you, and listens to any concerns or goals you want to talk through.
Cleaning
If your gums are healthy, a hygienist cleans and polishes your teeth. If we find signs of gum disease, your dentist will explain a different type of cleaning.
How Long It Takes and What Comes After
A first visit includes more steps than a routine checkup, so plan for extra time. Let us know when you book if you have a tight schedule, and our team will do its best to plan your appointment around it.
Before you leave, your dentist explains what they found and which treatments, if any, they recommend. If you need further care, our team reviews your insurance benefits and payment options with you so you can decide what to do and when.
If everything looks healthy, we simply schedule your next checkup. Questions that come up after you get home are welcome. Call us at (941) 877-5262 during office hours and a team member will be glad to help you.
First Visit Questions
Short answers to what new patients ask before they come in.
How much does a first visit cost?
New patients can use our $130 special, which covers a comprehensive exam, full-mouth X-rays and a cleaning. The cleaning is included in the absence of periodontal disease. If you have insurance, we will file your claim for you.
Will I get a cleaning at my first visit?
In most cases, yes, as long as your gums are healthy. If your exam shows signs of gum disease, your dentist will explain what kind of cleaning you need and why.
How early should I arrive?
Arriving a little early gives you time to finish any paperwork. [Confirm with office: how early new patients should arrive].
Can my previous dentist send my records?
Yes. Ask your previous office to send your recent X-rays and records to us before your visit. Your dentist will review them and decide whether any new X-rays are needed.
What if I feel nervous about dental visits?
Tell us when you book or when you arrive. Our team can explain each step before it happens and go at a pace that feels manageable for you.
