WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE GROVE PRACTICE
Your first visit to The Grove Practice in Leamington Spa marks the beginning of your journey to optimal oral health and a confident smile.
We've designed this initial appointment to be thorough, comfortable, and informative, setting the foundation for personalised dental care that meets your unique needs.
At your first appointment you can expect:
About You: We will spend time getting to know you, learning about your general health and previous dental experiences. We want to understand any dental fears or anxieties you may have.
The Oral Health Assessment:
Examination of the teeth
We examine your teeth and existing dental work for stains, chips, cracks, decay, malformations, excessive wear and mobility.
Soft tissue examination
We will examine your cheeks, roof of the mouth, throat, tongue, floor of the mouth, and your lips. We look for any problems that you may have including ulcers and early signs of mouth cancer.
Gum screening
The BPE (basic periodontal exam) is a routine part of every examination for patients 18 and older. It is a simple test specially designed for early detection of gum/periodontal disease. This is important because gum disease is still the number one cause of tooth loss in adults. Early detection means early treatment for healthier gums. Based on this assessment, we will recommend the appropriate treatment.
X-ray examination
If necessary, we will take digital dental radiographs of your back teeth, and supporting structures of the jaws. With the aid of these x-rays we will be able to determine the presence and position of teeth and any problems such as decay, gum disease or abscesses.
Jaw joint and muscle examination
This examination determines if the jaw joints and muscles are healthy and functioning properly and includes physical tests on the jaw joint such as seeing how the jaw moves and if there is any clicking or tenderness.
Evaluation of your bite
This check determines how the upper and lower teeth function in relation to one another. This helps us to see how the teeth are aligned and if there are any problems relating to the way the teeth fit together that may be producing excessive wear or headaches.
for better diagnosis
At The Grove Practice, we utilise state-of-the-art technology to enhance our diagnostic capabilities and treatment planning. During your first visit, you may experience:
This technology not only improves the accuracy of our diagnoses but also helps us explain your dental conditions more clearly, empowering you to make informed decisions about your care.
your first visit
Will I need treatment at my first visit?
The first visit is primarily diagnostic, focusing on assessment and planning. Unless you have an urgent issue, treatment typically begins at subsequent appointments once we've developed your personalised care plan.
What if I'm nervous about dental visits?
Please let us know about any dental anxiety when booking your appointment. Our team is experienced in helping nervous patients feel comfortable, and we can discuss options to make your visit less stressful before any treatment begins.
How long will my first appointment take?
Your initial appointment will last approximately 45 minutes to allow sufficient time for a thorough assessment and discussion about your dental health and goals.
Should I bring anything to my first appointment?
Please bring any dental records or X-rays from previous dentists if available, a list of current medications, and your insurance information if applicable. Arriving 10-15 minutes early to complete registration forms is also helpful.
