Your initial appointment usually will consist of an examination and review of your treatment options. Usually, treatment can be done or started the same day as the consultation. However, a complex medical history or treatment plan will require an evaluation and a second appointment to provide treatment on another day.
Please assist us by providing the following information at the time of your consultation:
- Any x-rays taken by a previous dentist, if applicable.
- A list of medications you are presently taking.
- If you have dental insurance, bring the necessary completed forms. This will save time and allow us to help you process any claims.
IMPORTANT: All patients under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Please alert the office if you have a medical condition that may be of concern prior to treatment (i.e., diabetes, high blood pressure, artificial heart valves and joints, rheumatic fever, etc.) or if you are currently taking any medication (i.e., heart medications, aspirin, anticoagulant therapy, etc.).
X-Rays
If your dentist or physician has taken x-rays, you may request that they forward them to our office. If there is not enough time, please pick them up and bring them to our office. If additional x-rays are necessary, they can be taken at our facility.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I allow for my first appointment?
Plan on about an hour, though it varies with what we find and how much we need to look at. The first visit is an examination and a conversation about options rather than a rushed run-through. If treatment can sensibly begin at that same appointment, we will discuss it with you first rather than springing it on you.
Should I arrive early to fill in paperwork?
Arriving ten or fifteen minutes early is helpful if you have not completed forms in advance. Bringing a list of your current medications, any X-rays from a previous dentist and your insurance details if you have them will save the most time. If you would rather fill everything in beforehand, call us on 713-723-7200 and we will sort that out.
Can I bring someone with me?
Of course. Plenty of people bring a partner, a friend or a family member, and there is no reason not to. If you would like someone with you in the treatment room while options are being explained, just say so. For anyone anxious about dental visits, having a familiar person there genuinely helps.
What if I am nervous about coming in?
Tell us when you book, and then tell us again when you arrive. It is far more common than people assume and it is not something to be embarrassed about. Knowing in advance means we can go at a slower pace, explain each step before it happens, and agree a signal for you to pause at any point. If anxiety is the thing that has kept you away, we also offer nitrous oxide and oral sedation, and we can talk through whether either would suit you.
What happens after the examination?
We go through what we found and what your options are, including the option of doing nothing for now where that is reasonable. You will get a clear picture of what needs attention first, what can safely wait, and what order makes sense. Nothing is booked or started without you agreeing to it.