Your First Visit to Southview Dental Care

Arrive a Little Bit Early to Get Acquainted with Our Practice

We look forward to welcoming you to the dental practice. As with any new experience, it takes a few extra minutes to settle in, whether that’s to give yourself time to park, meet our friendly front desk staff or spend a little time familiarising yourself with our waiting room.

On your first visit, please arrive 10 minutes early. This allows sufficient time to complete your medical and dental questionnaire. This information is really important, as it allows us to get to know you, and any medical conditions or medications we should be aware of when recommending and customising your dental treatments. During your appointment with the hygienist and dentist, we may ask some additional questions to ensure we offer you the best care possible.

After we’ve collected your medical information, you can make yourself comfortable in our tranquil and inviting waiting room, and browse a range of interesting magazines.

Meet Your Dental Practitioners

You will be called through to meet your dentist and their dental care assistant. We want our patients to feel comfortable with our practitioners and have confidence in the care they provide. The dentist and their care assistant use this time to discuss your dental needs, and listen to any concerns you may have.

This is the time for you to tell us about the best way to provide you with the dental care you require. If you are a nervous patient, have recurring dental issues, or even if you want to discuss your home hygiene habits, we’re happy to listen and provide you with options or instructions to solve your dental issues and put you at ease.

Your First Dental Examination

Following the introductory conversation with our team members, it’s time for your first dental exam at Southview Dental Care. You will receive a thorough dental examination, including screening for oral cancer. The dentist may take radiographs (X-rays) if required. Please note that our dental practice uses digital X-rays, which reduce radiation by up to 50 percent.

If Dental Treatment is Required

During your examination, we may come upon some dental issues that need to be addressed. We pride ourselves on not telling you what to do, but giving you a range of possible treatment options, along with their pros and cons, so you can weigh the risks and benefits. By explaining your treatment options in their entirety, you are able to make an informed decision about your care and together, we can formulate a treatment plan and pick an appointment time that works best for you. 

No matter which treatment you select, we will always provide you with a detailed treatment plan and a written estimate of costs, so there are no surprises on the day of treatment. We operate a pay-as you-go policy, although laboratory items will require advance payment. If cost is a barrier for you to get the help you need, please ask us about our finance options.

Regular Dental Check-Ups to Maintain Your Oral Health

Once we complete your course of treatment, your dentist will discuss how often you will require maintenance treatment, or routine check-ups. For many patients, scheduling a check-up every six months is a good frequency. You can make your maintenance appointment for the dentist and hygienist over the phone, in person or online, and we can send you a reminder closer to the time.

You are encouraged to give us your feedback at any time, and you can speak to our practice manager — Kayleigh Hanmer, or indeed any member of our friendly, professional staff.

Welcome to Our Dental Practice

Many of our patients have been coming to Southview Dental Care for years, and we hope you become one of them. We look forward to meeting you and to helping you smile with confidence.