Your first visit
Here’s what happens at a first visit to Dental Academy, in order, and what to bring. If you have a question this page doesn’t answer, call the office.
Patient forms
Visit the office
What happens, in order
- Request a visit. Send a request with the form on our contact page, or call the office. We’ll call you to confirm a time. If you’re in pain, call instead of using the form.
- Paperwork. We’ll ask about your health, your medicines, and your dental history. The office will tell you how to fill out your forms before your visit.
- Exam and X-rays. Dr. Minici looks at your teeth, gums, and bite, and checks the soft tissues of your mouth, including for signs of oral cancer. X-rays show what an exam can’t, like decay between teeth and the bone around the roots. Tell us about anything that’s been bothering you.
- Your plan. Dr. Minici shows you what he found and explains what needs attention now, what can wait, and what your options are. You’ll have time to ask questions, and treatment starts only when you’re ready.
Whether you also have a cleaning at the first visit depends on what the exam shows and how much time is set aside. The office can tell you when your visit is confirmed.
What to bring
- A photo ID
- Your dental insurance card, if you have one
- A list of the medicines you take, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and supplements
- Recent X-rays from a previous dentist, if you have them
If you don’t have your old X-rays, bring the name of your last dentist’s office. With your permission, that office can usually send copies.
Questions it’s fine to ask
Ask anything. These are a few questions people often have but don’t always say out loud:
- What do you see on my X-rays?
- What could happen if I wait?
- What are my options, and how do they compare?
- How many visits will this take?
- What will it cost, and what might my insurance pay?
- Will it be uncomfortable, and what will you do to help?
- Can we stop for a break if I need one?
If you’re nervous
Tell us when the office calls or when you arrive. Before we start anything, we’ll explain what we’re going to do and what you’ll feel. We’ll agree on a signal, like raising your hand, that means “stop,” and we numb the area first for any treatment that needs it. If you’d like to know more, see sedation options.
Insurance and payment
Before your visit, call the office with the name of your insurance plan to ask whether the office takes it. Our insurance and financing page explains how dental insurance usually works and what to ask your plan.
Plan a visit
Tell us a little about what’s going on, and we’ll call you to find a time.