Dental consultation – the first step to a healthy smile

Yes – a dental consultation is essential before starting treatment. During this visit, the dentist:

• conducts a medical interview and learns about the patient’s needs

• assesses the condition of the teeth, gums, and bite

• performs necessary examinations (e.g., X-rays)

• creates a personalized treatment plan tailored to the patient

A consultation helps avoid unforeseen complications and ensures that the treatment will be effective, safe, and aligned with the patient’s expectations. In some cases, the consultation may be combined with minor procedures (e.g., tartar removal or pain management), but it always precedes the main treatment.

The duration of a dental consultation depends on the scope of the examination and the issues reported by the patient, but it usually lasts between 20 and 45 minutes.

During this time, the dentist:

• conducts a detailed medical interview

• performs an oral examination

• takes or reviews X-rays (if needed)

• discusses the diagnosis and proposes a treatment plan

If the consultation concerns a specific field (e.g., surgery, orthodontics, implantology), it may take a bit longer, especially if it includes additional examinations such as CBCT scans or 3D imaging.

Yes – in most cases, you will receive a preliminary treatment plan and an approximate cost estimate during your first consultation.

After conducting a medical interview, examining the oral cavity, and analyzing X-rays or other diagnostic tests, the dentist will:

• present the diagnosis and possible treatment options

• propose an individual step-by-step treatment plan, while the Patient Care Coordinator prepares a preliminary cost estimate

For more complex treatments (e.g., prosthetic, implant, or orthodontic cases), the final cost estimate may require additional analysis or a team consultation. In such cases, the patient will receive a detailed quotation in writing or by email within a few days.

This way, you can make an informed decision and plan your treatment according to your possibilities and expectations.

• Take care of oral hygiene – brush your teeth before the visit to help the dentist thoroughly assess the condition of your teeth and gums.

• Bring any existing documentation, if you have it – e.g., X-rays, CBCT scans, or treatment records from another clinic.

• Prepare a list of symptoms or questions – it’s worth noting what concerns you (pain, sensitivity, gum bleeding) so you don’t forget to mention anything during the visit.

• Inform the dentist about chronic conditions and medications – e.g., diabetes, hypertension, allergies.

• If pregnant – make sure to let the dentist know.