Starting with a new dentist can bring up a lot of questions. What will they look at? How long will it take? Will someone actually listen to what you’re concerned about, or will you leave with a long list of treatments and no real answers? For many people, the thought of sitting in an unfamiliar dental chair is enough to put off making the call at all. Knowing what to expect ahead of time can go a long way in making that first appointment feel a lot less intimidating.
At Church Family Dentistry & Cosmetics in Durham, NC, we built our practice around making that first visit a positive one. Dr. Will Church, a graduate of the UNC School of Dentistry, takes a different approach to new patient care. Rather than rushing through a checklist, he takes the time to listen to your goals and concerns before recommending anything. Our general dentistry services are designed to give you a full picture of your oral health from the very first appointment, and we make sure you leave feeling informed, comfortable, and confident about the road ahead.
Before You Arrive
Preparing for your first visit is simple, and a little bit of preparation can help things go smoothly. We recommend completing your new patient forms before your appointment, if possible. These forms typically include your medical and dental history, any medications you take, and basic insurance or payment information. Having this ready in advance means less time on paperwork and more time focused on you.
It also helps to make a short list of any concerns you want to bring up. Maybe you’ve noticed some sensitivity, have a tooth that’s been bothering you, or have questions about a cosmetic option you’ve been curious about. No concern is too small. Dr. Church genuinely wants to hear what’s on your mind before anything else.
What Happens During Your First Appointment?
Your first visit will include a comprehensive oral examination. Dr. Church will carefully review your teeth, gums, and bite to get a full picture of your current oral health. This exam helps identify anything that may need attention, from minor issues like early-stage cavities to concerns that may benefit from a longer-term treatment plan.
According to the American Dental Association’s MouthHealthy resource, regular dental visits are important because they help catch problems early, when treatment is often simpler and more straightforward.
Digital X-Rays and Advanced Imaging
We use advanced dental technology to get a clearer, more complete view of what’s happening in your mouth. Our technology includes cone-beam imaging, which provides detailed, three-dimensional views that standard X-rays simply cannot provide. This level of detail helps Dr. Church make more informed decisions and spot concerns that might not be visible to the naked eye. It also reduces the need for follow-up imaging appointments.
A Conversation About Your Goals
One of the things that sets our practice apart is the time Dr. Church spends talking with you. Once the examination is complete, he walks you through what he found, explains your options clearly, and answers any questions you have. There’s no pressure and no information overload.
If you’ve been thinking about something like porcelain veneers or a smile makeover, this is a great time to bring it up. Our goal is to make sure you understand your oral health and feel good about whatever decisions you make.
A Look at Our Services
Our practice offers a wide range of care, so whether you’re coming in for a routine cleaning or something more involved, we have you covered. We also offer virtual consultations for patients who want to discuss their options before committing to an in-office appointment.
Here is a quick overview of some of the areas we address:
- General and preventive care, including cleanings, exams, and x-rays
- Cosmetic dentistry, including veneers, clear aligners with Candid Pro, and smile makeovers
- Restorative care, including dental implants and crowns
- Emergency dentistry for unexpected dental issues
- Surgical services including extractions and bone grafting
Every treatment plan is personalized. We don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to dental care, and your first visit is where that personalization begins.
What to Expect After Your Appointment
After your exam, Dr. Church will outline any next steps, whether that means scheduling a cleaning, moving forward with a treatment, or simply returning for a routine checkup in a few months. You’ll never leave our office wondering what comes next. We make sure every patient has a clear plan and knows exactly what to expect going forward.
Schedule Your First Visit at Church Family Dentistry & Cosmetics
Taking that first step toward better oral health is easier when you know you’re in good hands. Dr. Church and the team at Church Family Dentistry & Cosmetics are committed to making your experience comfortable, thorough, and personal. We take pride in building lasting relationships with our patients, and it all starts with that very first appointment.
We also believe cost should never be a barrier to quality dental care. We offer flexible financing options through Cherry, Sunbit, and Proceed to help you move forward with the care you need on a schedule that works for you. Reach out to us today to schedule your first visit. We look forward to meeting you.
