Your First Visit To Piedmont Dental
Your First Dental Appointment: What to Expect
Is everything in order for your dental appointment? If you’ve never been to a dentist before or it’s been a while since your last visit, here’s what to anticipate when you go to your first appointment.
Start Preparing For Your First Dentist Visit
X-rays
Your first dental appointment will almost definitely require new X-rays unless your dental records have been exchanged with another dental facility. Usually, a full mouth series of x-rays are taken at your comprehensive initial exam. Bitewing X-rays are used to identify dental decay (cavities), gum disease, and bone loss. Periapical x-rays are used to look at single teeth which are used to identify pathology, infection, and issues with individual teeth. Panoramic X-rays (sometimes referred to as “pan”) are used to detect impacted teeth, bone abnormalities, and malignancies.
Your radiation exposure will be minimized thanks to the use of a lead or lead-free apron. We always take precautions, even if this is a small amount of exposure equivalent to flying from South Carolina to Nevada.
The Exam
If you haven’t been to the dentist in a while, or if you’re seeing a Dr. Areheart at Piedmont Dental for the first time, expect a thorough examination. Your teeth and mouth will be thoroughly examined by Dr. Areheart throughout the examination for any signs of dental decay, gingivitis, or periodontal disease (commonly known as gum disease). In addition, he will discuss any issues you may be having, such as toothaches, sensitivities, or worries about your appearance, with you.
A specific treatment plan will be created for you by Dr. Areheart following your dental checkup.
Teeth Cleaning
You may also undergo a dental cleaning after your checkup (known as dental prophylaxis). Cleanings are essential to achieving and maintaining excellent oral health and are typically done every six months. Special equipment used by a dental hygienist remove the built-up plaque from the outside of your teeth during your cleaning. For that freshly cleaned feeling, your dentist will use a specialized polishing paste.
Various Dental Treatments
Dental procedures like tooth fillings and cosmetic treatments such as teeth whitening may be included in your first dental visit, depending on your treatment plan and the dentist’s schedule.
Scheduling and Payments
The office staff will go over your treatment plan and any necessary treatments at your dental appointment or will schedule a consultation to discuss your dental needs, such as more frequent cleanings. If you have dental insurance, the dental staff will work with you and your insurance company to determine what portion of your treatment will be paid for by your policy.
Piedmont Dental in Rock Hill, SC, provides dental services for the entire family. Make an appointment with Dr. Areheart now and discover a new level of dental care.
SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT
Get the smile you deserve. At Piedmont Dental, we serve family members of all ages, that include professional pediatric dentistry. Use the contact form to schedule your appointment and one of our staff members will be in touch ASAP!
