Walking into a new dental office for the first time can feel a little nerve-wracking. There’s the unfamiliar building, the new faces, and the question of whether it’s the right fit.
We understand that feeling completely. That’s why we’ve designed our first dental appointment to be welcoming, thorough, and completely pressure-free. Here’s exactly what you can expect when you visit us at 47 State Road in Media.
Before You Arrive
When you schedule your first appointment, our front desk team will ask for some basic information. We’ll also send you our new patient forms. Filling them out ahead of time saves you from sitting in our waiting room with a clipboard.
If you have dental insurance, bring your card. We’ll verify your benefits and explain any costs before any treatment begins. We don’t have surprise bills.
Walking Into Our Historic Farmhouse
Our office isn’t like most dental practices in Media, PA. The building is a restored 1916 farmhouse that once belonged to Dr. Hillyard’s great-uncle. It has charm, character, and a warm, welcoming feel that you just don’t get in a strip mall dental office.
When you walk through the door, you’ll see the front desk, comfortable seating, and a team member ready to greet you with a smile. There’s no clinical, cold atmosphere here. It feels more like visiting friends who happen to be excellent dentists.
The Check-In Process
We’ll confirm your information, make a copy of your insurance card, and take a quick photo. Nothing complicated. Just the basics to get you set up in our system.
If you haven’t filled out your forms yet, we’ll give you a few minutes to complete them. And if you have questions about anything, just ask. We’re here to help.
Meeting Your Clinical Team
Before you see the dentist, one of our hygienists will bring you to an operatory. They’ll ask about your dental history, any concerns you have, and what you’re hoping to achieve with your care.
We take the time to listen. We want to know about any anxiety you might have, any past negative experiences, and anything we can do to make your appointment more comfortable.
The Exam and X-Rays
Next comes the exam. We’ll take digital X-rays to see what’s happening beneath the surface. Digital X-rays use significantly less radiation than traditional film X-rays, and they provide instant, clear images that help us spot issues early.
Then Dr. Hillyard or Dr. Monroe will do a comprehensive exam.
- They’ll check your teeth, gums, bite, and jaw.
- They’ll look for any signs of decay, gum disease, or other issues.
- They’ll also do an oral cancer screening, a quick, painless check that could be life-saving.
Throughout the exam, they’ll explain what they’re seeing. There’s no jargon or mystery. We believe patients should understand their own oral health.
The Conversation About Your Care
At our office, we don’t rush through the diagnosis and move on to the next patient. We sit down with you and have an honest conversation.
- We’ll explain what we found, what it means, and what options are available.
- We’ll talk about what’s urgent, what can wait, and what’s purely cosmetic.
- We’ll answer every question you have, no matter how small.
- If treatment is recommended, we’ll lay out a clear plan with costs and timing.
We prioritize things based on your health, your budget, and your preferences. There’s no pressure to do anything you’re not comfortable with.
Treatment or Not?
Sometimes we can do a cleaning and any minor treatment during that first appointment. Other times, we’ll schedule a follow-up visit to handle more complex work. It all depends on what we find and what you’re comfortable with.
Either way, you won’t leave confused or uncertain. You’ll understand what’s happening with your teeth and what comes next.
Heading Home
When you walk out the door, you’ll have a clear picture of your oral health and a plan moving forward. You’ll meet our team, see our office, and get a feel for how we care for patients. And we hope you’ll feel like you’ve found your dental home.
If you’re ready to experience what a first appointment can be, we’d love to meet you. Call us at 610.566.0291 to schedule your visit. We’re located at 47 State Road in Media, right in the heart of the community we’ve served for generations.