What to expect at your first visit.
No surprises. Here is exactly what happens when you come to White Plains Dental for the first time, from a conversation about your health to a written plan and cost estimate you can take home.
Your first visit, in four steps.
- 1
Talk
We go over your medical history and listen to your concerns about your teeth.
- 2
Exam
Diagnostic tools show us what is happening: radiographs, CBCT, iTero scan and periodontal probing.
- 3
Clean
A professional cleaning leaves your teeth and gums fresh.
- 4
Plan
Your provider gives you a written treatment plan with a cost estimate.
1
We start by talking.
Before we look at your teeth, we want to know about you. Your health affects your mouth, and your mouth affects your health.
- Your medical history. Health conditions, medications, allergies and past surgeries all matter for safe dental care.
- Your dental history. Past treatment, how often you have been seen, and anything that has bothered you before.
- Your concerns. Pain, sensitivity, a chipped or stained tooth, bleeding gums, or how your smile looks. Tell us what you want fixed.
- Your goals. Whether you want to keep things healthy or make changes, we plan around what matters to you.
2
Then a careful exam.
We use several tools to see what a mirror alone cannot show. Your provider will show you what we find and explain it in plain language.
Radiographs (X-rays)
Show cavities between teeth, problems under fillings, the roots of your teeth and the bone that supports them.
CBCT 3D scan
A 3D image of your teeth, jaw bone and surrounding structures, for a closer look when your situation calls for it.
iTero digital scanner
A wand scans your teeth and bite into a 3D model on screen. You can see it too, and there are no messy impression trays.
Periodontal probing
A small, gentle measuring tool checks the space between each tooth and your gum, a key sign of gum health.
How periodontal probing works
Your provider measures several points around each tooth. Generally, readings of 1 to 3 mm are considered healthy, and deeper readings can signal gum disease. Illustration only.
3
A professional cleaning.
Once we know the condition of your teeth and gums, we clean them.
- Plaque and tartar removed. The buildup that brushing at home can miss, especially along the gumline and between teeth.
- Teeth polished. A smooth, fresh finish that also helps remove surface stains.
- Home-care tips. Simple advice for brushing and flossing based on what we saw in your exam.
- Gum health explained. If your exam shows signs of gum disease, we will explain it and recommend the right kind of cleaning for you.
4
A written plan with your costs.
Your provider reviews what we found and gives you a written treatment plan with an estimate. You will know what is needed, what can wait, and what it is expected to cost, before any treatment begins.
- Treatments in order of priority. What needs attention first and what can wait.
- A cost estimate for each one. Written down, so you can review it at home.
- Help with insurance. We check your coverage and help with claims.
- No pressure. Ask questions, take your time, and decide when you are ready.
| Treatment | Priority | Estimated fee | Insurance estimate | Your portion |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Treatment 1 | Needs attention | $ ______ | $ ______ | $ ______ |
| Treatment 2 | Recommended | $ ______ | $ ______ | $ ______ |
| Treatment 3 | Optional | $ ______ | $ ______ | $ ______ |
Layout shown for illustration. Your actual estimate is prepared by your provider after your exam.
Before you come in.
Bring your information
Photo ID, your insurance card, and a list of your medications and health conditions.
Bring past records
If you have recent X-rays or records from another dentist, bring them or ask that they be sent to us.
Bring your questions
Write down anything you want to ask. We are happy to go through it all.
First visit questions.
Something else on your mind? Call us at (847) 787-1155.
Will I get a cost estimate before any treatment?
Yes. Your provider gives you a written treatment plan with an estimate so you know the costs before you decide.
Do you take my insurance?
Call us with your plan and we will check your coverage before your visit. We also help with insurance claims.
I haven’t been to a dentist in a while. Is that okay?
Yes. We start with an exam, explain what we find, and let you decide the pace.
Are X-rays and the 3D scan always needed?
Your provider recommends the images that fit your needs and explains why. Tell us if you have recent images from another office.
Where do I park?
We are in the White Plains Shopping Center on Dundee Rd, with free parking at the door.
Ready to book your first visit?
New patients are always welcome. Book online or call us.