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Port Dover Family Dentistry
New Patient Dental Exams in Silver Hill
Starting with a new dentist? See what a first comprehensive exam covers, which records to bring and how Silver Hill residents can make the first visit count.
New patients welcomeCDCP accepted
Let’s get you smiling
Book an appointment
Tell us how we can help. Our team will follow up to confirm a time.
Silver Hill patients are cared for at our Port Dover office
Every dental service for Silver HillGetting to know your mouth
A first exam builds the baseline for all future care.
A new patient exam is more thorough than a routine checkup, because the dentist is learning about your mouth for the first time. It usually covers your health history, a full examination of teeth, gums and soft tissues, and any X-rays needed to see what cannot be viewed directly. It is also your chance to talk about concerns, past experiences and goals.
Whether you have just moved to Silver Hill or are looking for a new dental home closer by, you are welcome to start with a new patient exam at our Port Dover office. Gathering your records beforehand helps the visit go smoothly and may reduce the need for repeat X-rays.
Gather your records
A little paperwork ahead of time saves effort on the day.
Dental records and X-rays
If you have seen another dentist recently, ask them to send your records and X-rays to our office. Recent images may be usable, which can spare you from having new ones taken. Note any major dental work you have had, such as root canals, crowns, implants or orthodontics, along with roughly when it was done.
Health and medication details
Bring a complete list of medications and supplements, and be ready to discuss health conditions, allergies, surgeries and pregnancy. Some medical issues affect dental treatment or healing, so accurate information matters. If you have dental benefits, bring the details so the front desk can help you understand what information they may need to submit.
Sharing your history
The conversation is as important as the examination.
Past experiences and concerns
Tell the dentist about anything that worries you, whether it is a sensitive tooth, bleeding gums, jaw discomfort or anxiety about dental care. If past visits were difficult, explaining why helps the team adjust their approach. There is no need to feel embarrassed about the condition of your teeth or how long it has been since your last appointment.
Goals for your smile
Share what you would like from your dental care, such as keeping your teeth for life, fixing a specific problem or improving the appearance of your smile. Goals help the dentist explain options in a way that is relevant to you. You can also ask about scheduling preferences, which may matter if you are travelling in from the country.
The examination
A comprehensive exam looks at your whole mouth.
Teeth, gums and existing work
Each tooth is examined for decay, cracks and wear, and existing fillings, crowns or bridges are checked. Gum health is assessed, often by measuring the space between gums and teeth. X-rays are taken as needed to look between teeth, at roots and at the surrounding bone. Photographs may be used to document your current condition.
Soft tissues, bite and jaw
The dentist checks the tongue, cheeks, palate and throat for any unusual changes, examines the jaw joints and muscles, and looks at how your teeth come together. Signs of grinding or clenching are noted. All of this builds a baseline against which future changes can be measured during routine visits.
Planning ahead
You leave with a clear picture of your oral health.
Understanding the findings
The dentist explains what they found, shows you X-rays or photos where helpful and answers your questions. If treatment is recommended, ask about priorities, alternatives and what might happen if you wait. You can request a written treatment plan and take time to think it over before making any decisions.
Scheduling your next steps
Many new patients book a cleaning, either during the same visit or soon after. If treatment is needed, appointments can be arranged in an order that makes sense for your health and schedule. Ask whether some visits can be combined, which may be practical when you are making the trip from Silver Hill.
Planning your appointment
Your first trip to our Port Dover office
Call our Port Dover team to book a new patient exam. Mention any urgent concerns, as a focused appointment may be suggested first. Ask your previous dentist to send records before your visit.
Arrive a little early to complete forms. Bring your medication list, any dental benefit information and questions you would like answered during the visit.
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 does a new patient exam take?
It is typically longer than a routine checkup because it includes a full history, examination and any needed X-rays. Ask when booking so you can plan your day, particularly if you are travelling from outside Port Dover and want to allow extra time.
Will I have my teeth cleaned at the first visit?
Sometimes a cleaning can be done the same day, while other times it is scheduled separately, especially if gum treatment is needed. Ask when you book whether a cleaning can be included so you can make the most of the trip.
Do I need to bring my old X-rays?
It helps if your previous dentist can send recent X-rays and records directly. The dentist will review them and decide whether additional images are needed, which may reduce the number of new X-rays you require at this first appointment.
What if I have not seen a dentist in years?
That is common and nothing to be embarrassed about. The new patient exam is a good place to start fresh. The dentist will assess your current condition and explain priorities so you can move forward at a pace that feels manageable.
Can my whole family become new patients?
Yes. Let the team know the ages of family members and the care each is looking for. They can discuss appointment arrangements, including whether visits can be scheduled close together to reduce the number of separate trips your family needs to make.
What often follows a first exam
General Dentistry →Dental Exams and Checkups →
A regular checkup looks for decay, gum changes and early warning signs. See what an exam includes at our Port Dover office and how Silver Hill patients prepare.
Second Opinion Consultations →
Unsure about a treatment plan you were given? Silver Hill patients can bring records to Port Dover for an independent look at the findings and options.