Your first visit back

An exam and a cleaning for an adult who has not seen a dentist in a long time. It comes after the first visit, once you have decided to come back.

What happens

Usually two visits: the exam first, then the cleaning, sometimes on the same day.

01
Step 1: Look and talk
Dr. Zand looks at your teeth and gums, and tells you what she sees as she goes.
02
Step 2: X-rays, if needed
She takes X-rays only if she decides they will help. You can ask what each one is for.
03
Step 3: A plan in writing
She lists what she found, what can wait and what can't, and gives you the fee for each step before you agree to any.
04
Step 4: The cleaning
Nhung cleans your teeth and shows you what she is doing. If it is too much for one visit, she stops and books another.

How many visits you need depends on your teeth and gums. Dr. Zand will tell you what to expect for yours.

Comfort
A cleaning is done without numbing unless you need it, and we can numb the gums if you ask. You may feel scraping and pressure. Raise a hand and we stop.
If you wait
Buildup under the gums can make gum disease worse, and a small cavity can grow. Some people choose to start with one visit and think it over. Dr. Zand will say what to watch for.
Risks and after-care
Your gums may be tender or bleed a little for a day or two, especially if they have not been cleaned in a long while. Call us if the soreness gets worse or doesn't ease.
How it's billed
The fee is in your written estimate before we start. If your plan covers exams and cleanings, we file the claim for you.
How fees work

There is no number that is too long. Dr. Zand will look at where your teeth are now.

Maybe. She decides at the exam, and tells you why.

Yes. Many people split them.

Raise a hand. We stop and talk, and you decide whether to go on.

Dr. Mina Zand, DDS, general dentist, licensed in Indiana.