What happens during your first visit to the dentist: Your ‘What to Expect’ dental guide

At Foxley Lane Dental in Purley, we believe that being well-informed is the first step to a healthy smile and a stress-free appointment. This 'what to expect' dental guide breaks down each step and walks you through the entire dental check-up experience, from your first examination to ongoing care planning, so you feel prepared, supported, and empowered at every stage of your journey with us.

Key takeaways

• A dental check-up consists of an examination, potential X-rays, and a discussion about findings, along with any future treatment planning - crucial for maintaining oral health both now and into the future.
• Understanding different dental treatments, including common, cosmetic, and emergency services, prepares you for informed decision-making regarding your care.
• Regular dental visits enhance preventative care, promote early detection of issues, and foster a strong relationship with your local dentist - leading to better overall oral health outcomes.

What to expect during a dental check-up, like those we offer at Foxley Lane Dental, Purley

A dental check-up ensures your oral health is in top condition, and usually consists of three primary stages: an initial examination, potential X-rays, and a discussion about findings and future treatment planning. The plan is tailored to maintaining good oral health, preventing serious dental issues in the future, and working towards your perfect smile if you’re considering cosmetic changes too.

Step 1: Initial examination

The initial examination sets the stage for understanding your oral health. Your dentist evaluates your mouth, teeth, and gums to identify potential issues. This thorough check-up involves looking for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and even mouth cancer. Tools like a probe, a small device that blows air, and a mirror are used to ensure a comprehensive review.

Your dentist addresses immediate concerns and plans any necessary further treatment during this process. This initial examination is essential whether you’re a new visitor or a long-term patient.

Step 2: Dental X-rays

As part of your dental check-up, your dentist may recommend dental X-rays to gain a clearer, more detailed view of your oral health. While not required at every visit, X-rays are a valuable tool that helps detect issues that may not be visible during the visual examination.

These images allow us to assess areas beneath the surface - such as in between the teeth, below the gumline, and even inside the bone. We use them to identify early signs of decay, infections, impacted teeth, bone loss, or problems with restorations like fillings or crowns.

At Foxley Lane Dental, Purley, we use modern, low-dose digital X-ray technology to ensure your comfort and safety. The process is quick, painless, and typically completed in just a few minutes.

Your dentist will review the X-rays with you, explain any findings, and answer your questions. This step gives us a complete picture of your oral health and helps guide any treatment recommendations moving forward.

Step 3: Discussion, advice and onward treatment planning

The final stage of your dental check-up involves a discussion with your dentist. If any issues are identified during the examination, your dentist will explain your treatment options and provide personalised recommendations.

This is your opportunity to ask questions and receive tailored advice, including:

• Brushing tips
• Flossing techniques
• Advanced cosmetic dental treatments

You’ll leave with a clear understanding of how to care for your teeth and gums at home, and clarity on next steps if you're also looking to elevate your smile with treatments such as whitening or veneers.

We also recommend regular teeth cleanings by an experienced hygienist to avoid plaque build-up between check-ups, and to maintain long-term oral health.

Hygienist professional cleaning

Professional dental cleaning is an essential part of routine dental care, something we always recommend to book alongside your dental check-up. Typically carried out by a skilled dental hygienist, such as our expert team at Foxley Lane Dental, this treatment focuses on removing the build-up of plaque and tartar that everyday brushing and flossing can’t reach. Using specialised instruments, the hygienist carefully removes deposits from the teeth and around the gumline - helping to prevent gum disease, protect against decay, and keep your breath fresh.

At Foxley Lane Dental, we’re proud to be one of the only providers in Purley and Croydon to offer Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT), a modern, gentle, and clinically-advanced approach to dental hygiene. GBT uses state-of-the-art airflow technology combined with a warm, fine powder spray to remove plaque, biofilm, and surface stains from the teeth, gums, and even difficult-to-access areas.

This technique is suitable for both adults and children and is especially effective for patients with dental implants, orthodontic appliances, or sensitive teeth.

Unlike some traditional scaling methods, GBT is minimally invasive and far more comfortable, delivering a superior clean without any scraping or discomfort. After the GBT clean, your teeth are polished and professionally flossed to leave a smooth, sparkling finish, and a noticeably fresher, healthier smile.

Understanding different dental treatments

While the world of dentistry and dental treatments can be overwhelming, understanding the options available to you within your community can significantly improve your oral health. At Foxley Lane Dental, we offer a comprehensive range, from common procedures like fillings, to advanced cosmetic enhancements like Invisalign and dental implants, and emergency services.

Common treatments

Common dental treatments are the backbone of maintaining oral health. These include:

• Bridges
• Crowns
• Fillings
• Wisdom tooth removal

These treatments are vital for restoring and maintaining your teeth’s function and appearance. Specifically, fillings repair teeth affected by decay, preventing further damage and restoring their normal function.

Extractions and root canals are other common treatments that address more advanced dental issues. Extractions involve removing damaged or decayed teeth that pose a risk to overall dental health, while root canals save infected teeth by removing the nerve and pulp. If these services are required, our dental experts can gently walk you through these, step by step.

Cosmetic dental treatments

Cosmetic dental treatments enhance the appearance of your teeth and smile. Cosmetic dentistry, such as teeth whitening, veneers, and Invisalign are popular choices for improving dental aesthetics.

Veneers and Invisalign offer more permanent solutions for transforming your smile. Veneers are custom-made shells that cover the front surface of teeth, improving their shape, colour and overall appearance. Invisalign, on the other hand, is a clear aligner system that discreetly straightens your own teeth over time.

While NHS dental treatments focus on necessary care, cosmetic procedures for a private patient are generally handled through private payment plans. At Foxley Lane Dental, we offer a range of flexible payment options, so if a new smile is something you're considering, just speak to our friendly team in Purley – we're happy to help.

Emergency dental services

Emergency dental appointments address urgent issues requiring immediate attention. These services are usually same-day, and include treatments for pain relief and trauma to the teeth, such as broken or knocked-out teeth, infections, or other issues requiring swift and effective care.

Promptly addressing emergencies prevents further complications and alleviates severe pain. We hope that knowing that emergency dental services are available from Foxley Lane Dental in Purley provides our local community with peace of mind, ensuring that you can access the help you need when issues arise.

Making the most of your dental appointment

Proper preparation and thoughtful follow-up can help you get the very best out of your dental appointment. Whether it’s arriving in good time or simply knowing the right questions to ask, a little planning goes a long way. Managing dental anxiety and following post-treatment guidance can also make a real difference to your overall experience – and your dental team is here to support you every step of the way.

Preparing for your visit

Taking a few simple steps before your appointment can really help you feel more at ease and prepared:

• Try to arrive around ten minutes early – this gives you time to complete any necessary forms and settle into our warm, welcoming waiting area
• Bring along any relevant medical information to share with your dentist
• Jot down any questions or concerns you may have so we can be sure to address everything during your visit

This kind of preparation allows our friendly and experienced dentists to tailor your care, making sure nothing gets missed. You’ll feel more in control, and more confident about your oral health when you leave.

Managing dental anxiety
Feeling anxious about visiting the dentist is more common than you might think – and we completely understand. There are lots of gentle, effective ways to ease that nervousness. Simple relaxation techniques like deep breathing can make a big difference before your appointment. Listening to music during treatment can also help you feel more comfortable and distracted.

At Foxley Lane Dental in Purley, we’re also highly experienced in children’s dentistry. Our team is especially skilled at helping young patients feel safe, calm and supported - creating positive dental experiences from the very beginning.

Building a trusting relationship with your dentist can be especially helpful over time. That connection brings a number of benefits:

• Regular visits help create a sense of trust and familiarity, allowing for more personalised, compassionate care
• Open communication becomes easier, helping you express any worries or preferences
• You’ll feel more supported and understood at every step of your dental journey

Post-appointment care
Taking care of your mouth, gums and teeth after treatment is an important part of maintaining your results and healing well. We’ll always give you clear, easy-to-follow aftercare instructions – whether that’s avoiding certain foods, taking extra care with brushing, or using a recommended product.

Financial considerations for dental care

Understanding the financial aspects of dental care helps manage costs and ensures access to necessary treatments - for everyone. From payment plans to insurance coverage, there are various options available to help you afford the dental care you need.

Discussing options with your dental provider helps find the best solution for your financial situation.

Payment plans and financing

Many dental practices - such as Foxley Lane Dental in Purley - offer flexible payment plans to manage treatment costs over time, including interest-free payment plans, making dental care more accessible without added financial burden.

Interest-free financing options let you pay for treatments without additional costs, spreading the expense over manageable instalments. Discussing these options with your dental provider helps find a suitable payment plan, ensuring financial concerns do not prevent necessary care.

Insurance coverage

Reviewing your dental insurance policy beforehand is crucial for understanding your coverage and benefits. Most dental insurance plans cover preventive services at a higher percentage, reducing out-of-pocket costs for routine check-ups and cleanings. This coverage ensures maintaining your oral health remains affordable and accessible.

Dental insurance typically covers a portion of restorative treatments, such as fillings and crowns, but verifying specific details with your insurer is essential. Understanding your insurance coverage helps plan for additional costs and make informed dental care decisions.

Navigating NHS dental care

Navigating the NHS dental care system can seem daunting, but understanding the options available can help you access the care you need – and in many cases, receive treatment free of charge at the point of use if you qualify (such as being under 18, in full-time education, or on certain benefits). NHS dental treatments focus on maintaining the health of your teeth and gums, offering a range of clinically necessary services to ensure good oral health.

It’s important to note that cosmetic treatments are not routinely included under NHS care, as the NHS only covers treatments that are medically required to keep your mouth, teeth and gums healthy. So, procedures like teeth whitening, veneers, or Invisalign are considered private treatments and would need to be arranged separately.

Finding an NHS dentist

The NHS website’s search function allows you to locate nearby dental practices that offer NHS services. New patients can find practices accepting registrations through this platform, ensuring that they receive the necessary care as an NHS patient.

NHS dentists can offer a range of services, including check-ups, emergency care, and treatments for dental issues. To receive NHS dental care, you need to make an appointment with an NHS dentist, ensuring that you are registered and can access the services you need.

NHS treatment bands

NHS dental treatments are categorised into bands determining the level of care and cost. These bands cover a range of treatments, from basic check-ups to more complex procedures. Clinically necessary treatments are provided under these bands, with private options available for those seeking additional care.

NHS dental treatment costs depend on the type of treatment and corresponding charge bands. In England, individuals under 18, and those under 19 and in full-time education, are entitled to free NHS dental treatment. This includes routine check-ups, fillings, and other necessary treatments. For those not in full-time education, free NHS dental treatment is available for any course of treatment that starts before their 18th birthday, so understanding your eligibility and the financial aspects of your - and your family's - treatment is essential.

Private vs NHS treatment

Knowing the differences between NHS and private dental treatments helps you make informed decisions about your care. NHS treatments include clinically necessary procedures determined by the dentist’s assessment, ensuring that your basic dental needs are met. Private dental care, on the other hand, offers a broader range of options, including cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening and veneers.

Weighing the benefits and limitations of both options can help you decide the best path for your dental care.

The importance of regular dental visits

Regular dental visits are vital for maintaining overall health and preventing serious oral health issues. These visits allow early detection of potential problems and provide opportunities for your local dentist in Croydon, Purley - or beyond - to offer personalised advice and care.

Preventative care benefits

Preventative dental care significantly reduces the chances of requiring extensive treatments later. Regular check-ups and cleanings can prevent cavities and gum disease, leading to better overall oral health.

Early detection of issues

Regular dental visits increase the likelihood of identifying dental problems before they escalate into severe conditions. Early detection of issues like cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer allows for less invasive treatments and significantly better outcomes. This proactive approach ensures minor issues are addressed promptly, preventing them from becoming major problems.

Building a relationship with your dentist

Establishing a solid relationship with your dentist fosters trust and ensures personalised care tailored to your needs. Regular visits help build a rapport, allowing your dentist to understand your specific concerns and preferences. This relationship enhances the quality of care you receive, making each visit more effective and comfortable.

A strong relationship with your dentist can also reduce anxiety and improve your overall dental experience. Open communication and trust ensure that you feel supported and understood during your visits - leading to better oral health outcomes, increased confidence, and a positive attitude towards dental care.

Ready to prioritise your oral health?

At Foxley Lane Dental, we know that understanding what to expect at your dental check-up can make all the difference – especially if you're a new patient, or feeling unsure or anxious about what’s involved.

Whether you're looking for a dentist accepting new patients in Purley or Croydon, or simply want a more comfortable, comprehensive dental experience, get in touch with our friendly team today. We’re here to answer your questions, put you at ease, and help you feel completely confident about your dental care.

Get in touch with Foxley Lane Dental today - and take the first step towards a healthier, happier smile.