Your First Visit

Everything to Know Before You Arrive

Welcome to Westport Family Dental! We’re thrilled that you’ve chosen our practice for your dental care needs. Whether you’re new to the Kansas City area or simply looking for a new dental home, we want your first visit with us to be comfortable, informative, and the beginning of a lasting relationship. Dr. Aaron Smitka and our entire team are committed to making every patient feel valued and cared for from the moment they walk through our doors.

What to Expect During Your First Visit

Your first visit to our Kansas City dental office is designed to be comprehensive yet relaxed. We understand that visiting a new dentist can feel overwhelming, so we’ve created a welcoming environment where you can feel at ease while receiving top-quality care.

When you arrive, our friendly front desk staff will greet you and help you complete any remaining paperwork. We recommend arriving about 10-15 minutes early for your first visit to allow time for this process. If you prefer, you can also complete new patient forms online before your appointment to save time.

Comprehensive Examination and Assessment

During your first visit, Dr. Smitka will perform a thorough examination of your teeth, gums, and overall oral health. This includes checking for cavities, gum disease, and any other concerns that may need attention. We use advanced diagnostic technology, including digital X-rays, intraoral cameras, and cone beam 3D imaging when necessary, to get a complete picture of your oral health.

Our team will also review your medical and dental history with you. It’s important that we understand any medications you’re taking, previous dental treatments you’ve received, and any specific concerns or goals you have for your smile. This information helps us create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.

Professional Cleaning and Preventative Care

In most cases, your first visit will include a professional dental cleaning performed by one of our skilled dental hygienists. This cleaning removes plaque and tartar buildup that regular brushing and flossing can’t eliminate. We’ll also polish your teeth to remove surface stains and leave your smile feeling fresh and clean.

During your cleaning, we’ll perform an oral cancer screening as part of our commitment to comprehensive preventative care. This quick, painless screening helps detect any abnormal tissue or lesions early, when treatment is most effective.

Personalized Treatment Planning

After your examination and cleaning, Dr. Smitka will discuss his findings with you in detail. If any dental issues are discovered, we’ll explain your treatment options clearly and help you understand the benefits of each approach. Our goal is to ensure you feel informed and empowered to make the best decisions for your oral health.

We believe in conservative, patient-centered care. This means we’ll never recommend unnecessary treatments, and we’ll always prioritize your comfort and long-term dental wellness.

Building a Partnership in Oral Health

Your first visit is just the beginning of our partnership in maintaining your oral health. We’ll work with you to establish a preventative care schedule that fits your needs, typically recommending visits every six months for cleanings and checkups. We’ll also provide personalized guidance on at-home oral hygiene practices to help you maintain a healthy smile between visits.

What to Bring to Your First Visit

To make your first visit as smooth as possible, please bring the following items:

• Your dental insurance card (if applicable)
• A valid photo ID
• A list of any medications you’re currently taking
• Any relevant medical or dental records from your previous dentist
• A list of questions or concerns you’d like to discuss

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long will my first visit take?

A: Plan for approximately 60-90 minutes for your first visit. This allows time for paperwork, a comprehensive exam, X-rays, cleaning, and discussion of your treatment plan.

Q: Will my dental insurance cover my first visit?

A: Most dental insurance plans cover preventative visits, including exams, X-rays, and cleanings, at 100%. Our team will verify your benefits before your appointment and help you understand your coverage.

Q: What if I have dental anxiety?

A: We understand that many patients feel anxious about dental visits. Our team is trained to provide compassionate, gentle care, and we’ll work at your pace to ensure your comfort throughout your appointment.

Q: Can I schedule treatment on the same day as my first visit?

A: Depending on the treatment needed and our schedule, we may be able to address minor issues during your first visit. More complex treatments will be scheduled for a future appointment.

Schedule Your First Visit Today

At Westport Family Dental, we’re dedicated to providing exceptional dental care in a warm, welcoming environment. As your trusted dentist in Kansas City, we look forward to meeting you and helping you achieve optimal oral health. Contact us today to schedule your first visit and experience the difference that personalized, compassionate dental care can make. We can’t wait to welcome you to our dental family!