First Visit at Wilshire Smile Studio
Taking care of your teeth means more than brushing and flossing.
For complete care, it’s important to visit a dentist every six months for a regular checkup and professional cleaning.
The first step in this process is to schedule an appointment with Wilshire Smile Studio.
On your first visit, we will ask you for your full health history. On follow-up visits, if your health status has changed, make sure to tell your dentist. Here’s what you can expect during most trips to the dentist.
In the waiting room, you will be greeted by our friendly administrative staff who will get you started on your new patient paperwork.
Please come in 15 minutes before your appointment so you have time to complete your paperwork. Also mention whether you are taking medications and the most important aspects of your medical history, including allergies to pain medication and antibiotics.
You will meet with Dr. Elyassi and his team to talk about your medical history. If you have any oral health worries or fears, we encourage you to ask questions. Let Dr. Elyassi and his team know at the time of your dental exam what you remember about your prior treatments and procedures and your current concerns.
We will likely examine your teeth, gums, and mouth, and take x-rays and/or panoramic radiographs.
This initial comprehensive exam is a no-risk way to learn the status of your oral health and to learn how our professional team can help you. If you want a second opinion, no problem – you can obtain a copy of your exam results and x-rays.
There’s a good reason why you may or may not receive teeth cleaning at your first appointment: Each new patient relationship often starts with an initial exam so your dental team can understand your needs and concerns first, then tailor your hygiene treatment to you. This way, you’ll get the most out of your cleaning appointments, the time and attention you deserve.
A Thorough Cleaning – a dental hygienist or dentist will scale along and below the gum line to remove built-up plaque and tartar that can cause gum disease, cavities, bad breath, and other problems; then polish and floss your teeth.
A Full Dental Examination – your dentist will perform a thorough examination of your teeth, gums, and mouth, looking for signs of disease or other problems.
Periodontal Probing may be done to measure any pockets between your teeth and gums if there is a possibility of periodontal disease.
X-rays – X-rays can diagnose problems otherwise unnoticed, such as damage to jawbones, impacted teeth, abscesses, cysts or tumors, and decay between the teeth.
Panoramic radiographs – help your dentist view un-erupted or impacted teeth, as well as sinus conditions, and can detect lesions or fractures in the jaw.
If your teeth and gums are in good shape, you probably won’t need to return for three to six months.
If further treatment is required — say to fill a cavity, remove a wisdom tooth, or repair a broken crown — we will make an appointment before you leave the office.
And don’t forget to ask our team any questions you may have —this is your chance to get the answers you need.