When you schedule an appointment with us, we will send you a welcome packet which includes forms that you may fill out prior to your visit. These will include such things as a dental and medical history, and a form for personal and contact information. If you have trouble filling out any part of these forms, our staff will be more than happy to help you.
Your first visit will include a brief preclinical interview that will allow us to get to know you better. Please feel free to express any concerns you may have during this time. We are here to answer any questions that you may have. This will be followed by a comprehensive clinical exam which will include any necessary x-rays, a charting of all your existing restorations (crowns or fillings), charting of any possible problems that you may be having with your teeth. We will then check the bone levels around each one of your teeth as part of a periodontal (gum) exam. Included also will be full head and neck exam, a soft tissue exam and cancer screen, and finally an exam of your TMJ joint and its associated muscles. We may take some impressions of your teeth as part of our data collection. This will allow us to make a three dimensional model of your teeth that can be mounted on a jaw simulator. Using this, we can check your bite and look for any possible signs or wear or damage in your dentition. We may also take some photographs of your dentition. You may receive a cleaning during your initial visit if you have no active periodontal disease.
This data is then studied by Dr. Chen and you will be presented with an ideal treatment plan for optimal health. Any pressing problems that are found will be addressed first. You will also be provided with an estimated cost of your treatment once treatment options are discussed. All final treatment will be approved by you. As your guides, we will give you as much information as you need to make a sound decision.
