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 Question: “I recently switched dentists and was pleasantly surprised. My new dentist and his staff conducted the most thorough exam and cleaning I ever received. Do all dentists deliver this high-quality initial exam?”
Answer: I don’t know about other dental practices but your experience sounds terrific and is good to hear. I also believe that a new patient’s first examination is the most crucial dental appointment a patient will ever receive. Not only does the initial visit create the all-important positive first impression about the office itself, but establishes future patient expectations about the quality of their future service.
A highly competent and professional dental team allows ample time to ask and listen to a new patient’s concerns. This discussion should also include a patient’s feelings about past dental experiences as well as their current treatment expectations and oral health goals. Once we understand your specific needs and have reviewed your dental and medical history with you, we will tell you what you can expect from our team during your appointment. Most likely, digital x-rays and digital photos will be taken. Oftentimes, dentists will make an oral impression in order to have a model of your teeth. A comprehensive examination featuring an oral cancer screening, periodontal and TMJ evaluations, and a close inspection of all of your teeth typically follows. During this protocol, the dentist, hygienist, or assistant should thoroughly explain to you what they see as well as provide information as to how to better care for your teeth and gums. While the periodontal (gums and the bone that support your teeth) exam is taking place, a decision will be made as to the “type” of cleaning that will be required and how much time it will take. If the initial scheduled time is insufficient, a follow-up appointment or appointments will need to be made. If an extended period of time has elapsed since a patient’s last examination and cleaning, it is likely they will have a certain amount of gum (or gum and bone) disease. The level of the disease’s severity will determine their need for multiple appointments and/or anesthetic required to ultimately restore a patient’s oral health. Most importantly, new patient examinations need to be thorough. The dental team must allot sufficient time to establish both a positive, professional relationship with the patient and to truly understand all their needs. If new patients are rushed through the process, the outcome is certain to be detrimental to all. Again, it is good to hear about your great experience. Dr. Thompson maintains his private dental practice (Imagecare Dental) in Plano, TX. For more information on this or any other dental topic, please visit: www.imagecaredental.com . If you have questions for Dr. Thompson, please send an e-mail to:
This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or mail him a 6841 Coit Rd, Plano, TX 75024 |
