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Port Dover Family Dentistry
New Patient Dental Exams in Selkirk
Starting with a new dentist? Selkirk residents can learn what a new patient exam covers and how to prepare for a first visit at our Port Dover practice.
New patients welcomeCDCP accepted
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Serving patients from Selkirk at our Port Dover office
See every service for Selkirk patientsGetting to know your mouth
A first visit builds the baseline for future care.
A new patient exam is a thorough first look at your teeth, gums, bite and overall oral health. It gives the dentist a baseline to compare against at future visits and a chance to understand your history, concerns and goals. It is also your opportunity to get a sense of the team and how they communicate.
Whether you have recently moved to Selkirk, have been without a dentist for a while or simply want a change, our Port Dover office welcomes new patients. Knowing what the exam involves and what to bring can help the visit feel more relaxed and make the most of the time.
Before your visit
Preparation makes the first appointment more useful.
Health history and records
Bring a list of current medications, including vitamins and supplements, and details of medical conditions, allergies and recent surgeries. If you can, ask your previous dental office to send X-rays and records ahead of your visit. These help the dentist understand past treatment and may reduce the need for new images, depending on how recent they are.
Questions and concerns
Write down any concerns you have, such as sensitivity, bleeding gums, a tooth that feels different, jaw discomfort or cosmetic goals. Mention any past dental experiences that were difficult, including anxiety. Sharing this information early helps the team adapt the visit and focus on what matters most to you, rather than discovering it later.
During the exam
The exam is more detailed than a routine checkup.
A comprehensive look
The dentist examines every tooth for decay, cracks and wear, checks existing fillings, crowns and other restorations, and evaluates gum health. The tongue, cheeks, palate and throat are checked as part of oral cancer screening. Your bite, jaw joints and muscles may also be assessed. The dentist will explain what they are looking at as they go.
Imaging and records
X-rays are often recommended at a first visit if recent images are not available. Photographs may be taken to document your teeth. Gum measurements may be recorded to assess periodontal health. These records create a reference point, so changes can be tracked accurately over time and treatment decisions can be explained clearly.
Reviewing findings
Clear explanations guide your next steps.
Understanding your oral health
The dentist will explain what was found, what is healthy and what needs attention. Ask about the reasons behind any recommendations and how urgent each one is. If you have been away from dental care for a while, the findings may include several items, and the dentist can help you understand which to prioritize and which can wait.
Planning any treatment
If treatment is needed, you can request a written plan and take time to consider it. The dentist can discuss alternatives, sequencing and how visits might be arranged around your schedule and travel from Selkirk. It is reasonable to ask questions or seek a second opinion for larger treatment plans before deciding.
Ongoing care
The first visit begins a long-term relationship.
Booking cleanings and follow-ups
A cleaning may be scheduled at the same visit or separately. The dentist will recommend how often you should return for checkups and cleanings based on your oral health. Booking the next appointment before leaving can make it easier to stay consistent, especially when coordinating family schedules and trips to Port Dover.
Staying in touch
Between visits, contact the office if you notice pain, swelling, a broken tooth or other changes. Let the team know about new medications or health conditions. Keeping your information current helps the dentist provide care that reflects your situation and avoids surprises at future appointments.
Planning your appointment
Your first visit from Selkirk.
Call our Port Dover office to book a new patient exam and mention any concerns you want addressed. Ask how long the appointment usually takes so you can plan your day.
Bring your medication list, insurance information if you have it, and arrange for records or X-rays from your previous dentist to be sent ahead.
Port Dover Family Dentistry
697 Norfolk County Hwy 6, Unit 2, Port Dover, ON N0A 1N2519-583-2929Directions to our office (opens in a new tab)Office hours & contact detailsBefore you book
New patient questions
Have a question about your situation? Our team can help you plan a visit.
How long is a new patient exam?
It is usually longer than a routine checkup because the dentist gathers a full history and examines everything in detail. Ask the office when booking how much time to allow, so you can plan the trip and the rest of your day accordingly.
Do I need to bring X-rays from my old dentist?
It helps if you can arrange for them to be sent. Recent images may reduce the need for new X-rays, depending on their quality and date. The dentist will explain whether any additional images are recommended at your first visit.
Will I have a cleaning at the first visit?
Sometimes a cleaning is included or scheduled right after the exam, depending on your needs and availability. If you have significant tartar or gum concerns, a separate appointment may be recommended. Ask the office when booking what to expect.
I have not seen a dentist in years. Is that a problem?
Not at all. Many new patients have had a gap in care. The dentist will examine your mouth without judgment, explain the findings clearly and help you prioritize any treatment so it feels manageable and fits your circumstances.
Can my whole family become patients?
Ask the office about booking appointments for family members. Let the team know everyone’s ages and any specific concerns. Arranging visits close together may reduce the number of separate trips needed from Selkirk, depending on availability.
What may come after your first visit
General Dentistry →Dental Exams and Checkups →
Regular dental checkups help catch decay, gum disease and other changes early. Selkirk residents can book routine exams at our Port Dover dental office.
Second Opinion Consultations →
Unsure about a recommended treatment plan? Selkirk patients can bring their records to our Port Dover office for an independent second opinion.