New Patients · First Visit
What your first visit actually looks like.
Step by step, with no surprises. Plan on roughly 60–90 minutes for a comprehensive new-patient appointment.
A first dental visit should feel like meeting a new neighbor — not like an interview. We move slowly, ask real questions, and earn your trust before anything else. Here is exactly what to expect, in order, so the visit feels familiar before you walk through the door.
Step 01
Arrival & welcome
Pull into our lot off Booker T Washington Highway. The front desk will greet you by name, confirm your paperwork is complete, and walk you back when the operatory is ready. Plan on a 10-minute settling-in window.
Step 02
The health conversation
Before any clinical work, your hygienist and Dr. Willis will sit with you to understand your medical history, current concerns, past dental experiences, and what you want out of your dental care. This is not a quick intake form — it shapes the rest of the visit.
Step 03
Comprehensive exam & imaging
Digital X-rays (low-radiation), an intraoral scan if needed, and a careful hand exam. Everything you see on the screen, we will explain on the screen. If you have not had imaging in two or more years, expect a full set today.
Step 04
Oral cancer & periodontal screen
A gentle check of your soft tissue, tongue, lips, and neck for any signs of concern, plus a periodontal probing to measure gum health. Quick, painless, and important.
Step 05
Cleaning, where appropriate
If your gums are healthy, your first visit usually includes a thorough prophylaxis cleaning. If we see active periodontal disease, we may schedule a deeper cleaning at a follow-up so it gets the time it deserves.
Step 06
Findings & treatment plan
Dr. Willis will walk you through what we found, what is urgent, what is optional, and what can be watched. You will leave with a printed plan, a clear cost estimate, and zero pressure to schedule anything on the spot.
Step 07
Next steps
If you want to schedule follow-up work, the front desk will set you up before you leave. If you would rather think about it, we will email a copy of your plan and check in the following week.
A few practical notes.
- How long does it take? A first visit typically runs 60–90 minutes. Block 2 hours if you can, to avoid feeling rushed back to the office or the lake.
- Will I need additional appointments? If everything is healthy, your next visit will be a six-month recall. If we identify work that needs follow-up, we will phase it logically across one to several appointments based on priority.
- What if I am anxious? Tell us before the visit, or as soon as you sit down. We will adjust pace, lighting, and noise to whatever helps. Headphones and warm blankets are always on the table.
- Bringing a child? See our family- and pediatric-friendly approach in General Dentistry. We are happy to schedule parent and child back-to-back.