First Visit. What to Expect

At Four Bridges Family Dentistry we believe that quality care begins with a thorough exam and treatment plan. By listening to your desires, our team will be able to formulate a clear plan that works best for your needs. When you become a patient at Four Bridges Family Dentistry, you can expect your first visit to go as follows:

  • Phone interview. When you call to schedule an appointment, we’ll ask for basic information regarding your oral health, medical history, insurance, fears, etc.
  • Upon arrival. We are proud of our office and want you to feel comfortable in it. We’ll take you on a quick tour to get you acquainted and help you meet the team.
  • Meet the Dentist: Dr. Venza will spend time discussing your smile concerns, desires, and goals. We believe our first step in caring for patients is to listen to your needs in order to give the most personalized care possible.
  • Tour of the Mouth in Images: Using photographs and necessary X-rays, we will discuss four areas: the Esthetics, Function, Structure, and Biology of the teeth and mouth. This is important to provide an understanding of your oral health and a framework for desired treatment.
  • Comprehensive Exam and Treatment Plan: Comprehensive dental care looks at the interrelationship of the teeth, gums, supporting bone and jaw muscles. During your initial comprehensive exam, Dr. Venza will look at the health of each of the structures contributing to a healthy mouth and educate on ways to achieve and maintain oral health for the rest of your life.
  • Review insurance and financing: We are happy to provide an explanation of insurance benefits and file insurance papers. We are also happy to provide interest free financing through Care Credit.
  • Receive care from our hygienist: Your registered dental hygienist will remove plaque and calculus to enhance your oral health and reduce your risk of gingivitis and periodontal disease. The cleaning is finished with polishing, a pleasant procedure that cleans the surface of teeth, removes stains, and leaves the mouth feeling clean and refreshed.

FAQ

Appointment lengths for our new patients.

  • Comprehensive exam, X-rays, and Cleaning: Approx. 1 hour
  • Comprehensive exam, X-rays, and Periodontal Disease Treatment (Deep Cleaning): Approx. 2 hours

What to Bring

We know your time is valuable and in order to save time for you. Please be sure to bring the following information along with you to your first office visit:

  • Dental Insurance Card
  • Photo ID (Driver's License)
  • Completed new patient forms 

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide (“Laughing Gas”) is one of the most common forms of sedation used in dentistry. The gas can be safely inhaled along with oxygen to create a relaxed sensation. Effects of the gas start within the first few minutes, causing patients to feel calmer and experience warmness throughout the body, or even a tingling in their fingers and toes. As soon as the procedure is complete, the patient is placed back on 100% oxygen for 5 minutes, as the nitrous oxide gas clears their respiratory system.

weighted Blanket

The weight of a weighted blanket is very close to the weight of the lead apron used on patients while getting x-rays, and for people with sensory integration issues or dental anxiety, they both have the same calming effect. The blanket is draped over your lap to reduce the level of anxiety you would otherwise be feeling during your visit. The serotonin produced by your body with the aid of the weighted blanket will leave you feeling calmer and more relaxed.