Your Visit

Your first visit to our office is usually a new patient examination, (unless there are other pressing concerns). On this first visit, you will be asked to fill out a medical and dental questionnaire. A comprehensive exam will be performed and X-rays may be taken. Any recent X-rays from other offices can be transferred over to our office, by signing a release form at our front desk. Sometimes it is helpful to do this prior to your first visit.

During your examination we check:

• The health of the jaw joint (TMJ or temporomandibular joint),
• The lymph nodes under the chin, and neck for any enlarged lymph nodes, your body’s natural response to fighting infection, or in rare circumstances a sign of cancer,
• Soft tissues in the mouth; an oral cancer screen,
• The gum tissues for gingivitis and gum disease,
• And finally the teeth for cavities, signs of wear, cracks, and much more….

At this appointment, we deal with any individual questions or concerns you may have. We truly encourage dialogue and questions from our patients. It is the way that we can help you best!

On a child’s first visit, children’s teeth are checked for proper eruption patterns, cavities, infections and jaw development. Habits such as extended pacifier use, thumb or finger sucking, can effect proper jaw development, and need to be assessed. Your child’s teeth are cleaned and fluoride applied if age appropriate. We also review home oral hygiene. Going to the dentist can be an intimidating experience for a child. Our dentists and team work very hard to make these visits enjoyable and establish lifelong positive attitudes. That first visit is very important and every effort is made in establishing rapport with your child. At the end of their appointment, your child’s picture is taken and added to our “wall of fame”. Most of our young patients look forward to their visits to our office.

We run a family practice that focuses on patient care. We have a preventative philosophy in our treatment scope. Your questions and concerns are welcomed, so please feel free to share them with us.

Dr. Stacey Sotiroff