Atlantic Dental Group · Wilmington, NC
What Happens at Your First Visit
Our comprehensive new patient exam takes longer than a standard check-up because it covers things a quick look does not.
It takes longer than a check-up, on purpose
A quick look finds cavities. A comprehensive exam finds the things that turn into next year's emergencies: a cracked cusp, early gum disease, a bite that is grinding itself down, a lesion that needs watching.
What is included
A tooth-by-tooth assessment, digital x-rays, a full periodontal charting with six measurements per tooth, an oral cancer screening, a TMJ and bite pattern evaluation, and an aesthetic consultation if you want one.
You will see what we see
Intraoral photographs and x-rays go up on the screen and we walk through them with you. Nobody should agree to treatment they have not been shown the reason for.
Then a plan, in writing
What needs doing now, what can wait, what we would leave alone, and what each part costs against your benefits. You leave with the document.
If it has been a long time
That is a large share of our new patients and it is not a conversation we make awkward. We start where you are.
Bring these with you
Your insurance card, a list of medications and medical conditions, and any recent x-rays from a previous dentist if you can get them.
Questions we get asked
How long does the first appointment take?
Longer than a routine check-up, because the comprehensive exam covers periodontal charting, an oral cancer screening and a bite evaluation alongside the decay check.
Will I get a cleaning at the first visit?
Often, though not always. If the charting shows active gum disease, a standard cleaning is the wrong treatment and we will explain why before doing anything.
Do I need to bring x-rays from my old dentist?
If you can get them, yes. Recent images mean we do not repeat imaging unnecessarily. We can also request them for you.
What if it has been years since my last visit?
That describes a large share of our new patients. We start with where you are and build a plan forward. There is no commentary about the gap.
Do I have to commit to treatment on the day?
No. You leave with a written plan and you decide in your own time.
Ready when you are
One trip. Everybody seen.
We block consecutive appointments so a family visit is one morning rather than three separate afternoons.
- General, cosmetic, orthodontic and surgical care under one roof
- Consecutive family scheduling on request
- Sealants and preventive care for children
- Most major dental plans accepted
Nervous child? Tell us before the appointment and we will slow the whole thing down.
Request an appointment
We reply the next business day.
Please do not include Protected Health Information. For anything urgent, call (910) 762-0958.
