The New Patient Experience 

To invite you to our office for an “examination” would give you a misconception of what we accomplish on your first visit.  Although a meticulous examination of the teeth and gums is important, it is only a fraction of our first time together.

When you come in for your New Patient Experience, we will sit together to learn more about what brings you to our office and what you are hoping to achieve.  It’s also a good opportunity for you to learn more about us.  Your questions, as always, are encouraged.  Naturally, we’ll talk about your general health and how that might affect your dental care.  We know that it takes lots of time to get to know each other, but this is a good start.

Not until you feel we’ve heard your concerns do we begin to examine your gums and soft tissue, jaw joints, chewing muscles, and, finally, teeth.  A thorough evaluation of all these different areas helps us not only diagnose any current conditions, but also helps predict future problems. 

X-rays are still the best way to see what’s hidden beneath the surface. The appropriate digitalx-rays will be taken to maximize your health and safety.  Digital photographs will also be taken.  Pictures of the teeth are invaluable when we sit down to study the information gathered at the New Patient Experience.

The final piece of the puzzle is supplied by plaster models set on a mechanical device that recreates your bite.  It allows Dr. McGonigle to look at how your upper and lower teeth work together.  We can see what it would take to improve your bite or how cosmetic treatment could be done in the most long-lasting way. This step is especially important if you have any concerns about your TMJ (temporomandibular joint.)  

With this extensive amount of information, we have all we need to evaluate your current conditions.  When you return, we will help you understand your treatment options so that you can make the best decisions to meet your oral health goals.