Here’s Exactly What Happens at Your Dental Exam
Our team in Las Vegas walks you through every step, from check-in to checkout. New patients always welcome.
Your appointment, step by step
Whether it’s your first visit to our Las Vegas office or you’re returning after a gap, here’s what to expect from start to finish.
Check-in and health history
When you arrive, you’ll check in at the front desk. New patients fill out a brief health history form covering current medications, any health conditions, dental concerns, and insurance information. This gives your care team a complete picture before the appointment starts. You can complete the form online before you come in if that’s easier.
X-rays — if you’re due
For most new patients, a full set of X-rays is taken to establish a baseline. For returning patients, bitewing X-rays are typically taken once a year or every other year depending on your risk level. X-rays show what a visual exam can’t reach: decay between teeth, bone levels, and root health below the gumline. We take them when they’re clinically useful and explain why each time.
Gum health check
The hygienist uses a gentle probe to measure the depth of the small pockets between your gum tissue and each tooth. Healthy pockets measure 1–3mm. Deeper readings can indicate gum disease. The step is brief and comfortable.
The dental exam
Your dentist examines each tooth for decay, cracks, wear, and any changes since your last visit. They’ll review your gum measurements and X-rays, check how your bite comes together, and look at the soft tissue in your mouth.
Cleaning — if same appointment
Most patients have a cleaning at the same visit as their exam. The hygienist removes tartar buildup, polishes your teeth, and flosses. That fresh, smooth feeling at the end is the result. If a deep cleaning turns out to be more appropriate than a routine one, your care team will walk you through what that involves and why before anything changes.
Review and recommendations
Before you leave, your dentist walks you through what was found, in plain language. If something needs attention, you’ll hear what it involves, what it costs, and when to schedule it. If everything looks good, you’ll hear that too.
You leave with a clear picture of where things stand.
Book a visit
No rush. No judgment. No surprises.
What to bring to your first visit
For new patients at our Las Vegas office:
That’s it. Everything else, we’ll handle.
• Your insurance card (or plan name and member ID)
• A list of current medications and health conditions
• Any dental records or X-rays from a previous dentist (optional, but useful if you have them)
How long should you plan for?
If it’s been several years since your last dental visit, plan closer to 90 minutes. A thorough baseline assessment takes a bit longer. We’ll let you know at booking so you can plan around it.
At a glance
- New patient exam + cleaning 30–60 min
- Returning patient exam + cleaning 30–60 min
- Exam only 30–45 min
Book a visit
No rush. No judgment. No surprises.
Book a visit
No rush. No judgment. No surprises.
What if they find something?
This is the part many patients are most anxious about. Here’s how we handle it at American Dental Center.
If your dentist finds a cavity, gum concern, or anything that needs attention, they’ll explain it clearly: what it is, what it means, and what your options are. You’ll know what any recommended treatment involves and what it will cost before anything is scheduled.
We don’t proceed with treatment on the same day without your consent. If follow-up work is needed — a filling, a crown, anything — you’ll schedule that separately on your timeline.
Nothing about your treatment plan moves forward without you.
Getting started is easy
Book online or call
Pick a time that fits your week. We’re open Mon & Fri 8 AM–4 PM · Tue & Thu 9 AM–4 PM · Wed 9AM–4:30PM. Our office is at 6901 W Charleston Blvd, Las Vegas in Las Vegas.
We prep the details
We verify your PPO benefits before your visit so you know what’s covered. New patients get a quick heads-up on what to bring and can fill out paperwork online beforehand.
Leave knowing where you stand
After your exam, your dentist walks you through findings in plain language. You’ll leave with a clear picture and a plan if anything needs follow-up.
Common questions
What should I do if I’m nervous about the dentist?
I haven’t been to the dentist in years. Will I be judged?
Do I need to do anything to prepare?
Can I ask questions during the exam?
Is parking available at your office?
Book a visit
No rush. No judgment. No surprises.