Your First Dental Visit in South Hadley, MA
Here at Baltazar Dental, we’re dedicated to keeping you informed, and we want you to know exactly what to expect during your first visit with us. Your first appointment begins with a consultation, where Dr. Felicia Baltazar will review your current situation, explain any diagnosis, and walk you through your treatment options. Knowing what’s ahead helps you feel relaxed and prepared, so you can focus on getting the care you need.
What to Bring to Your Appointment
To help your visit go smoothly, please bring the following with you:
- A list of any medications you are taking
- Any known allergies or medical conditions
- Your medical or dental insurance information to be filed
If you’ve had X-rays taken in the last six months, please have your previous dentist forward them to our office. If there isn’t enough time for them to reach us before your appointment, please arrange to pick them up and bring them with you.
What Happens During Your Consultation
Your first visit is all about understanding your oral health and your goals. Dr. Baltazar will:
- Review your medical and dental history
- Perform a comprehensive exam of your teeth, gums, and bite
- Take low-radiation digital X-rays as needed
- Use our intraoral camera to show you close-up images of any concerns
- Complete an oral cancer screening
- Check for signs of tooth decay and gum disease
- Explain your diagnosis and discuss your treatment options
Same-Day Treatment and Follow-Up Visits
Occasionally, treatment can be completed on the same day as the consultation. However, complex treatment plans or complicated medical histories may require additional evaluation and a second appointment. Common follow-up treatments include professional cleanings, tooth-colored fillings, scaling and root planing, porcelain crowns, and bridges.
Important Health Information
Please let our office know before your appointment if you have a medical condition that may be a concern prior to treatment, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, artificial heart valves or joints, rheumatic fever, or blood disorders. This helps us plan the safest possible care for you.
Patients Under 18
A parent or guardian must accompany all patients under the age of 18.
Payment and Insurance
We accept most major dental plans and will submit your claim for you. We also accept Visa, MasterCard, and Discover. Visit our financial information page to learn more, see our new patients overview, or browse our full list of dental services.
First Visit FAQs
How long does the first dental visit take?
The length of your first visit depends on your needs, but plan for extra time compared to a routine checkup so we can complete your history, exam, X-rays, and consultation without rushing.
Will I get my teeth cleaned at my first visit?
In many cases, yes. If your gums show signs of disease or you need a deeper cleaning, we may schedule that treatment for a follow-up appointment.
Can treatment be done on the same day?
Occasionally treatment can be done the same day as the consultation. Complex treatment plans or complicated medical histories may require a second appointment.
Do I need to send my old X-rays?
If you’ve had X-rays taken within the last six months, please have your previous dentist forward them to our office or bring them with you.
What medical conditions should I tell you about?
Please tell us about conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, artificial heart valves or joints, rheumatic fever, or blood disorders before your appointment.
Does my child need a parent at the appointment?
Yes. A parent or guardian must accompany all patients under the age of 18.
How do I schedule my first visit?
Call Baltazar Dental at (413) 538-7546 or request an appointment online.
Questions Before Your First Visit?
We’re happy to help you prepare. Contact us or call Baltazar Dental at (413) 538-7546 to schedule your first appointment in South Hadley, MA .