Whether you haven’t been to the dentist in years or have never sought professional dental care, you might be wondering what to expect from the first appointment. Although many people find new experiences nerve-wracking, dentists work hard to make appointments easy for patients. Here are three steps to expect from your first trip to the dentist. 

Standard Dental Appointment Procedures

1. Medical History Paperwork

Before your dentist inspects the smile, you will be asked to fill out patient information and medical history paperwork. The goal of this paperwork is to establish overall health, as well as gathering valuable information, like insurance ID numbers and emergency contacts. Also, since certain medications can change the health of a smile, you may be asked to provide a list of medications and dosages. 

2. X-Rays 

After you are walked back into an exam room, you will be fitted with a paper guard and the hygienist will start collecting X-rays. Most dentists require them of every quadrant of your smile, and some may ask for panoramic X-rays to check the condition and alignment of the jaw. 

3. Dental Cleaning & Exam

Next, your teeth will be carefully cleaned by a hygienist, who will remove plaque and tartar deposits to keep the teeth healthy. A gritty toothpaste and rotating power toothbrush will be used to polish the surfaces of the teeth, and then the dentist will inspect your teeth for the signs of tooth decay. If issues are discovered during the exam, your doctor will schedule a follow-up appointment. 

If you are due for a dental appointment, don’t hesitate to call to schedule a visit with Cherry Hill Dentistry in Lincoln, NE. As a dynamic father-daughter dental duo, Dr. Tanya Powell and Dr. Jerry Kroeger work hard to create a family-friendly, welcoming environment for their patients—while simultaneously offering an excellent dental care experience. To learn more about how they can help, visit them online or call (402) 488-2383.