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New Patients
Getting Ready for Your First Appointment
Here are some general guidelines to help you prepare for your first appointment at Specialty Dental Care:
1. Arrive 10 minutes early– Also plan for a 90-minute appointment. Patient needs vary, and we want to allow enough time for a complete evaluation. This time is reserved for you – should you need to reschedule your appointment, we request 48-hour notification.
2. Turn off cell phones and pagers– This limits distractions and avoid interference with medical equipment and software programs. This also assures a more relaxing atmosphere for our patients and guests.
3. Medical History Review and Screening– On your first visit, we will review you’re your medical and dental history and any x-rays from your referring dentist. We will provide a head, neck and oral cancer screening as well as a comprehensive periodontal and dental examination and any necessary diagnostics. You will also be shown brushing, flossing and cleaning methods to help treat your oral health problems at home. These instructions as well as the oral cancer screening are part of our new patient exam and are provided at no additional cost to you.
4. After the Examination– Dr. McVaney will explain your oral health needs and present a personalized treatment plan. Our treatment coordinator will then review the treatment plan with you, and our financial coordinator will then discuss insurance and payment options. A summary letter will be sent to your referring dentist outlining these treatment options.
Lastly, make sure to print off and fill out the patient form below and bring it with you to your first appointment.
Patient Forms
What You Can Expect From Us
In most instances, new patients are referred to us by their general dentist who has already detected a special dental need beyond what can be performed by a general dentist. At Specialty Dental Care P.C., it is our utmost goal to make new patients feel welcomed and at ease. Here are a few things you can expect being a patient:
Be treated as family.
Be treated with respect in all interactions.
Receive treatment by a staff who is educated, well-trained, and committed to excellent patient care.
Be educated about periodontal disease and ways you can participate in improving your oral health. You are a participant in your treatment, not a bystander.
Be treated as an individual regarding your treatment plan, treatment provided, and any special needs to ensure your comfort.
Be advised of sedation options appropriate for your situation to alleviate any anxiety and discomfort.
Be provided with treatment appropriate for your oral health needs. As specialists in periodontal and implant care, please do not expect what we do to be typical or customary. Each treatment plan is designed with that individual patient’s oral health in mind.
Be advised of payment options to make treatment possible in most cases.
Have your primary dentist informed of your treatment recommendations and progress.
