New Patients: What to Expect on Your First Dental Visit

Starting a relationship with a new dentist in Grosse Pointe Shores can feel a little intimidating, especially if it’s your first time visiting the dentist in a while. Our team at Faircourt Dental strives to make your first visit as smooth and stress-free as possible

Here’s a step-by-step guide of what you can expect when you walk through our doors.

1. A Warm Welcome

When you arrive at Faircourt Dental, our friendly team will greet you and help you with check-in and any necessary paperwork. We’ll make sure you’re comfortable and answer any questions you might have about your visit.

2. Medical and Dental History

After check-in, you’ll be taken to a treatment room where we’ll ask you to fill out a form that provides your medical and dental history. This helps us understand your overall health and any dental concerns you may have, such as:

• Previous dental treatments

• Any current oral health issues (e.g., pain, sensitivity, etc.)

• Current medications and medical conditions

• Allergies or sensitivities

If you’ve had dental work done in the past, we recommend bringing along any records or X-rays from your previous dentist. This will give us a complete picture of your oral health.

3. Comprehensive Exam

Once we have your history, it’s time for the dentist to come in and meet you.  

The dentist will conduct a thorough exam of your teeth, gums, and mouth to assess your oral health. This includes checking for cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues.

4. Teeth Cleaning

If your first visit is for a routine check-up, you’ll also receive a professional cleaning from our dental hygienist. A teeth cleaning involves removing plaque and tartar buildup, which regular brushing and flossing can’t always fully eliminate.

During the cleaning, the hygienist will:

• Use a special scaler to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth.

• Polish your teeth to remove surface stains.

• Floss between your teeth to ensure every spot is clean.

A professional cleaning helps prevent cavities, gum disease, and other oral health problems, leaving your smile feeling fresh and clean.

5. X-Rays (If Needed)

Depending on your oral health, we may take digital X-rays to get a detailed view of your teeth and jaw. This helps us spot issues that might not be visible during the exam.

6. Personalized Treatment Plan

After your exam, the dentist will discuss their findings and create a treatment plan if needed. This could include filling cavities, addressing gum disease, or other treatments. We’ll also provide tips for maintaining good oral health.

7. Questions and Concerns

We encourage you to ask questions! We want you to feel informed and comfortable with any decisions about your treatment. Our goal is to ensure you understand your dental health and the available options.

8. Scheduling Your Next Appointment

Before you leave, we’ll schedule your next visit. This could be for a follow-up or a routine check-up in six months. Regular visits are key to maintaining your dental health.