Get ready for your first dentist appointment
Overview
Booking a dentist appointment is a simple step you can take for your oral health. Whether it’s your first visit or a routine checkup, knowing what to expect can help you feel more prepared. Here’s what happens during a dental appointment at Aspen Dental, how to get ready and what comes next.
What to expect at your first dentist appointment at Aspen Dental
Your first visit helps us understand your oral health, your goals and what you need next. It usually includes:
Check-in and a quick health history review
A comprehensive exam
Digital X-rays
A clear explanation of what we found
A care plan built around you
A cost and payment options review
Next steps, follow-up appointment if needed
6 easy ways to prepare for your appointment
A little prep can help your visit go smoothly:
Arrive about 15 minutes early
Bring a photo ID
Bring your dental insurance card, if applicable
Make a list of medications or medical conditions
Write down questions you want to ask
Check-in online ahead of time
How long does a dentist appointment take at Aspen Dental?
Most dentist appointments take about 30 to 60 minutes. Timing can vary based on the type of visit and what you need. First-time visits and appointments that include X-rays or more treatment planning may take a little longer.
After your dental appointment
Before you leave, your Aspen Dental care team will help you understand what’s next. That may include:
At-home care instructions and recommended next steps
A walkthrough of your personalized treatment plan
A review of costs and payment options
Scheduling follow-up appointments, if needed
Questions after your visit? Call your local Aspen Dental office. We’re here to help.
Have an emergency? Schedule same day dentist appointment
Dental emergencies can happen without warning. If you have tooth pain, swelling, a broken tooth or another urgent concern, Aspen Dental offers same-day dentist appointments to help you get care quickly. Call your local office to schedule an emergency visit.
How much does a dentist appointment cost?
Dentist appointment costs can vary based on your visit and the care you need.
If you have dental insurance, routine dental checkups may be partially or fully covered depending on your plan. We accept most dental insurance plans. Please note, we do not accept Medicaid.
Before any treatment begins, we’ll review your recommended care and costs so you know what to expect. Paying out of pocket? Ask about flexible financing options and the Aspen Dental Savings Plan.¹
¹The Aspen Dental Savings Plan is NOT insurance. Please see plan terms and conditions for details.
Frequently asked questions about dentist appointments
Most patients describe their dentist appointments as comfortable. Your care team focuses on comfort and can explain each step as you go. If you feel nervous or sensitive, tell us so we can adjust the approach.
No. Your first dentist appointment is usually focused on an exam and a conversation about your oral health. If treatment is recommended, we’ll walk you through your options so you can decide what works for you.
Not always. X-rays are recommended when they’re needed to check areas that can’t be seen during a visual exam. How often you need X-rays depends on your history and your current needs.
You’re not alone. Many people come back to care after a long break. We’ll meet you where you are, explain what we’re seeing and help you take the next step at your pace.