New Patients
New patients of all ages are always welcome at Advanced Dental Practice.
We have put together a list of answers to questions that we get asked most by our new patients.
Why do I need an initial consultation?
All new patients will need an initial consultation. Whether you are after a simple check-up or more complex treatments, this appointment allows us to understand your concerns and treatment wishes in detail so that we can gather the right information to provide you with a custom made solution for your oral health needs.
What happens at the initial consultation?
When you visit us for the first time, our dentists will conduct a thorough examination. They will not only examine your mouth, teeth and gums but also your bite, jaw joint, jaw muscles and the soft tissue of your mouth and throat. We use digital imaging to show you your mouth and teeth the way you see it, the way other people see it and the way dental professionals see it – a full tour that allows you to understand your mouth in a way you have never experienced at the dentist before!
As a matter of routine, our dentists check every patient for signs of oral (mouth) cancer when they visit. We use the Velscope Vx – a sophisticated non-invasive tool which allows us to detect a number of conditions, including oral cancer, much earlier than conventional screening methods.
We also use the CarieScan, a high-tech device which allows us to detect tooth decay at a much earlier stage than x-rays and visual examination.
Based on the examination results and your individual requirements, we will agree on an appropriate treatment and maintenance regime of regular dental check-ups and visits with the hygienist.
Regular dental check-ups give us the opportunity to identify and address potential problems as early as possible, as well providing you with on-going advice and support to enable you to achieve and maintain optimum dental health.
Our dentists and hygienist work together to help you keep your mouth healthy. Managing your treatment plan and ongoing care is very much a two-way process. You will be able to tell us your concerns and ask questions so that you are well informed about your specific needs and become confident at looking after your oral health in between regular visits.
How long will the initial consultation take?
General new patient consultation is 45 minutes.
If you are referred by your dentist for a particular treatment or you have booked yourself in for specific concerns that require us to spend more time in understanding and gathering the necessary information, the consultation may last up to 90 minutes. You will be informed on this when you book your consultation.
Can I just see the hygienist?
All our patients are prescribed a regular hygiene visit that is tailored to their individual needs.
If you would like to see our hygienist through direct access, your first appointment will be for one hour so that she can do an initial assessment of your oral hygiene needs and also provide the treatment. At the end of the appointment, she will be able to recommend you a personalised hygiene regime to keep your mouth healthy and tell you how frequently she would like to see you.
