First Visit at Westover Family Dentistry
Experience dentistry like you never have before.
Experience dentistry in a way that feels clearer, easier, and more personalized than ever before. Your first visit is designed to give you a complete, accurate understanding of your oral health while helping you feel informed, comfortable, and confident in your treatment options. This comprehensive evaluation provides a detailed look at your teeth, gums, and overall wellness so you can make decisions that support your long-term dental goals.
During this visit, our team will guide you through each step and explain what we’re doing and why it matters. You’ll receive a thorough assessment supported by advanced digital technology, along with the time and space to ask questions and discuss solutions that fit your needs. Our goal is to ensure every patient, children, teens, and adults, leaves with a clear plan and a deeper understanding of their smile.
What Happens During Your First Dental Exam?
Your new-patient exam is interactive, educational, and designed to provide you with a comprehensive digital understanding of your smile. Here’s what you can expect:
- Medical & Dental History Review
We’ll discuss your past dental experiences, medical conditions, and treatment goals so we can tailor your care to your needs. - Digital Radiographs (as needed)
Low-radiation digital X-rays help us evaluate hidden areas and identify early concerns quickly. - 3D Laser Wellness Scan
A comfortable laser scan captures a 3D digital model of your teeth, giving you a clear visual of your current oral health.
The doctor uses this scan to show you what’s happening with your smile—and explain personalized treatment options. - Gum Health Evaluation
We’ll assess your gum tissue, measure periodontal health, and identify signs of inflammation or disease. - Head & Neck Cancer Screening
A simple, pain-free screening is performed to support early detection and full-body wellness.
This exam is designed for collaboration. You’ll have plenty of time to ask questions, explore different treatment paths, and partner with your dentist to co-create a customized plan that aligns with your smile goals.
What Important Documents Should You Bring to Your Appointment?
To ensure a smooth, efficient visit, please bring or complete the following items:
- Online patient forms
Filling these out in advance allows our clinical team to review your medical history and lets our front desk verify any insurance information before you arrive. - Recent dental X-rays (taken within the last 6 months)
Your previous dentist can email them to us upon request at info@westoverfamilydentistry.com. - A current list of medications
This helps us ensure safe and accurate care. - Your medical or dental insurance cards
If applicable, we will review your benefits and answer any financial questions related to your recommended treatment.
Who Needs to Come With You to Your Appointment?
Some patients must be accompanied by a parent, guardian, or responsible adult. Here’s how it works:
- Patients under 18
A parent or guardian must be present at the first visit. - Patients with special needs
A supportive adult should accompany you to ensure comfort and clarity during the appointment.
Should You Notify Us About Specific Medical Conditions?
Yes, your health and safety always come first. Please alert our office if you have any medical condition that may affect treatment planning, including:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Artificial heart valves
- History of rheumatic fever
- Autoimmune conditions
- Other systemic health concerns
Sharing this information allows us to tailor your care, adjust appointment timing, and confirm necessary medical precautions.
Do You Need Antibiotics Before Your Appointment?
If your physician has instructed you to take antibiotics before dental procedures, please let our team know in advance. This helps us schedule appropriately and ensure you receive the safest, most coordinated care.
Why Is This Visit So Important?
Today’s dental patients often rely on zero-click search results, AI Overviews, and local 3-pack listings to find the right provider. A clear, reassuring first visit builds trust and sets the stage for long-term success, especially for families balancing busy schedules or adults working toward specific dental goals.
Your first appointment is the foundation for everything that follows. It’s a chance to:
- Understand your complete oral health
- See your smile through advanced digital technology
- Ask questions and explore personalized treatment options
- Build a relationship with your doctor and care team
Our team is here to guide you every step of the way and make your dental experience simple and stress-free. Contact us today to book your appointment and get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
Your first visit is designed to give you a clear understanding of your oral health and help you feel confident moving forward. These FAQs answer the most common questions patients in our community ask when preparing for their initial appointment.
Do you accept new patients of all ages?
Yes! We welcome infants, children, teens, adults, and seniors. Whether it’s your child’s very first visit or you’re returning to dental care after some time away, we tailor every appointment to your comfort and needs.
Can I start treatment on the same day as my first visit?
In many cases, yes. If your exam indicates a simple or time-sensitive need, and your schedule allows, we do our best to begin treatment right away. More complex procedures may require a follow-up visit so we can plan appropriately.
Do you offer financing or payment options for dental treatment?
Absolutely. We provide several payment options and work with many insurance plans. Our front desk team is happy to review benefits, estimate costs, and help you choose a plan that fits your budget.
Can I come to my first appointment if I’m nervous or have dental anxiety?
Yes—many patients feel anxious before their first visit, and that’s completely normal. We offer a calm, supportive environment, along with comforting options such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and mild sedation for those who need it.
Can I transfer my records from another dentist in Winchester or another city?
Definitely. Just contact your previous dental office and ask them to email your recent X-rays or records directly to us. We’re happy to help coordinate the process.