Deciding when to go to the dentist is never easy. Many patients wait until they experience tooth pain or have a big event approaching and want a whiter smile. Our advice? Don’t wait. Your first visit to Hazen Smiles for a dental cleaning and exam is a seamless experience—here’s what to expect.
Afraid of Going to the Dentist? Read This.
If you’re feeling nervous about your first dental appointment, you’re not alone. According to the American Dental Association, nearly 73% of adults report they are afraid of going to the dentist. At Hazen Smiles, we understand fear, and Dr. Goter and our team are strongly committed to your confidence and comfort during your first dental visit, and every visit thereafter.
Preparing For Your First Dental Appointment
We know filling out your medical history at every office gets old, but certain medications can trigger dental conditions that are completely preventable. For example, many blood pressure medications can cause dry mouth, which is known to increase the risk of dental cavities. Therefore, it’s best to be prepared for your first dental visit with the following:
- Identification Cards (Driver’s License and Dental/Medical Insurance)
- Medical & Dental History
- Current List of Medications
- Previous Dental X-rays (if applicable)
- Questions & Dental Goals
Remember, it’s normal to be anxious about your first dental visit, so we always recommend that you write down your dental goals and questions ahead of time to ensure they are discussed in person with Dr. Goter.
New Patient Dental Cleaning & Exam in Hazen
As a new patient at Hazen Smiles, your dental hygienist will spend a little extra time evaluating your teeth, gum tissue, and tongue. It is important to accurately record the stability and structure of your teeth, any areas of sensitivity, gum health, and any pre-existing dental conditions. The following elements are not patient-specific, but vital pieces of any new patient exam:
- Dental X-rays
- Intra-oral Photography
- Periodontal Charting
- Oral Cancer Screening
- Dental Treatment Planning
- Dental Cleaning (Prophylaxis or Scaling)
Before your dental cleaning begins, Dr. Goter will discuss which type is recommended:
- Regular Cleaning (“Prophy” or Prophylaxis), or
- Deep Cleaning (“SRP” or Scaling & Root Planing)
First Dental Cleaning & Exam FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
How long is my first appointment for a dental cleaning and exam?
Your first dental visit will be between 60 and 90 minutes.
Do I have to get dental X-rays?
Dental X-rays can detect dental conditions occurring interproximally (between your teeth) and underneath your gum tissue—areas not easily seen by eye. Bone loss, tooth infections, and decay can all be detected by dental X-rays, so it is not recommended to decline dental digital imaging.
Will my teeth look whiter after my dental cleaning?
While teeth cleaning cannot lighten your natural tooth shade, you may notice whiter teeth after a dental cleaning, as it can remove surface stains left behind from drinks like coffee, tea, and red wine. Ready to say goodbye to stains for good?
Unanswered questions about your first dental visit?
Contact your trusted dental team at Hazen Smiles for answers and to schedule your first new patient visit. We look forward to meeting you!
Meet Your Trusted Hazen Dental Team at Hazen Smiles
While originally from Mandan, ND, Dr. Keely Goter eventually traded the hustle and bustle of a bigger city for right here in Hazen. She’s proud to serve a small community and have the benefit of truly getting to know each patient on a personal level. Dr. Goter earned an undergraduate degree from the University of North Dakota. She then completed her doctorate in dental surgery from the University of Minnesota. When she’s not in our office, she’s enjoying time with her husband and four children.
Hazen Smiles
204 2nd Ave NE Hazen, ND 58545
(701) 748-2730
