What to Expect at Your First Dentist Appointment?
At Kinston Smiles Family Dental we want to provide the best personalized experience with a patient-first mindset. In order to provide the best care for you and your family, we will begin with a comprehensive exam to provide you with your personalized treatment plan.
We provide a range of services from routine cleanings, esthetic dentistry, general practitioner root canal therapy, removable dentures, crown and bridge, restoration of implants, and much more.
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Smile and Relax
Let’s face it… few things are more tedious than the process of scheduling and attending an appointment, dental or otherwise. That’s why we promise to make you comfortable, treat you with the utmost respect, and help you get on with your day. We pride ourselves on being friendly, understanding people who know what you are going through, and we promise to support you every step of the way!
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What Happens at My First Visit?
First, you should schedule a dentist appointment. You can schedule your appointment online, over the phone, or by stopping by our office. Then, at your initial appointment, we'll perform a detailed oral exam and check for issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, and other problems that can affect not only your mouth but your overall health. Lastly, we’ll discuss personalized treatment options that can help you achieve and maintain optimal oral health.
Helpful information
We're excited to see you!
Dental Cleaning Expectations
Below, you will find things to expect from a typical dental cleaning appointment:
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Teeth Cleaning: The main goal of cleaning is for the teeth to be cleaned and polished. Your dental professional will remove plaque and tartar buildup that may have accumulated.
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Flossing: Your general dentist or hygienist will floss in between each tooth, which is essential for removing built-up food and keeping the gums and teeth healthy.
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Troubleshooting: During your exam, your dentist will keep an eye out for cavities, gum inflammation, and other issues that may affect your oral health. If a problem is found, we may suggest a follow-up appointment to remedy the situation.
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Setting Up Future Visits: Consistency is key in maintaining good oral hygiene. This not only includes regularly taking care of your smile at home but also scheduling a dental exam at the recommended time frame. Scheduling your appointment while at the dentist is a great way to make sure your next visit is set!
What to Expect FAQs
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What is the Importance of Oral Health?
Oral hygiene is vital for eliminating harmful bacteria in the mouth. Bacteria accumulates and forms plaque that can harden, leading to long-term ailments such as gingivitis if not removed. A good dental care routine and regular 6-month checkups will keep your mouth healthy while preventing inflammation, infection, decay, and tooth loss.
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Why Get a Dental Exam?
Dental exams help us in evaluating the effectiveness of your current routine while providing suggestions to protect you from common complications such as cavities and gum disease. They also allow us to quickly and easily detect and fix problems.
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How Can You Prepare for a Dental Exam?
Practicing good oral hygiene is the best way to prepare for your upcoming dental exam. We recommend brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing at least once a day. Before you arrive for your appointment, make sure to brush your teeth. We’ll clean your teeth for you, but it’s helpful to remove as much plaque as possible beforehand so we can focus on more urgent areas. Be prepared to share your medical history, insurance coverage, and current dental care methods with us. Don’t be embarrassed – it's best to be honest about your oral hygiene habits. We are not here to judge you, but to work with you to improve your oral health!
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Don’t forget to bring:
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Dental X-rays from the last six months or we can take them
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Your medical and dental history information, including any medications you’re currently prescribed
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Your dental insurance card (if applicable)
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Your parent or guardian (if you’re under 18)
How Long Does a Dental Cleaning Take?
Depending on a patient’s oral health, the average dental cleaning procedure can take anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes. During the exam, a dental hygienist will first check your gums for disease and your teeth for cavities. Then, they’ll remove any plaque or tartar build-up with various instruments. Typically, once the hygienist completes their job, the dentist will step in to give a quick but thorough once-over and add any necessary input to the hygienist's conclusions about the status of your oral health. Keep in mind - more is involved in a dental cleaning than just the physical act of cleaning! During your appointment, the dentist and staff may:
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Take X-rays
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Check the space between your teeth and gums for signs of gum disease
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Examine your teeth, tongue, and other oral cavities to ensure they are healthy and not an impediment to your health
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