New Patient
Your First Visit Is the First Step Towards a Confident Smile
We look forward to a patient’s first visit with us because it is where we get to know you and start building a relationship. Do not worry — we will make everything as simple and comfortable as possible.
At your initial appointment, we will first listen carefully to your needs and concerns. Then we will intake your dental records, and survey your teeth, using our digital cameras and x-rays (either taken in our office or from your previous dental provider). After that, you will be thoroughly examined by Dr. Simon, then discuss your treatment options and create a personalized plan designed to lead you to optimal oral health.
Whether you are a young person on their first dental visit, an adult changing dentists, or someone suffering from a dental emergency, we will do whatever it takes to put you at ease and treat you with compassionate care.
What to Expect
Welcome to the Office!
You will be greeted by our attentive and friendly staff when you arrive. We will gather information about your dental and medical history, then help you through the insurance and financial forms. You can conveniently fill out our New Patient Forms online. These records are critical in giving Dr. Simon the information he needs to do a thorough, comprehensive examination and develop your custom oral care plan. If you want to take care of this at the office, we kindly ask you to arrive 10-15 minutes early.
It is Time for Your Close-Up
After your onboarding documents are complete, you will not be waiting long. That is because we see patients on time. We know your time is valuable — and just as valuable as ours. If your appointment is late because of us, you will get a coffee gift card on us.
You will be called back to a clean, modern treatment room with Dr. Simon, who will survey your oral condition thoroughly with the goal of giving you the most needed, minimally invasive, and conservative treatment possible.
The oral survey will consist of quick, comfortable digital x-rays; and digital photos of conditions that can not be captured with x-rays, such as gum issues or tooth staining. We will measure your “gum pockets”, the small spaces between your teeth and gums, in order to determine the appropriate professional cleaning necessary.
Dr. Simon’s Examination
Dr. Simon will sit with you and go over your dental and health history, x-rays and photos, and listen to your needs and concerns. He will do a comprehensive exam of your teeth and gums, including an oral cancer screening. He will explain the findings, and discuss treatment options with you. You will be able to ask questions and get to know Dr. Simon as you collaborate on creating a personalized treatment plan. During your exam, we will do whatever it takes to keep you comfortable and at ease. We are here to steer you through your options, and will respect your feelings, concerns and decisions.
Next Steps
Additional Care and Treatment
If your visit is for an emergency dental situation, we will take care of that right away.
In normal circumstances, after your initial examination, we will go ahead and schedule any additional dental treatment needed as soon as possible — and may even be able to accommodate you the same day. Our goal is to create your personalized treatment plan and accommodate you in a timely manner, according to your schedule, needs, goals, and financial situation.
Cleanings
At your first appointment, if there are not any pressing issues that must be treated first, you will often have your initial visit with one of our experienced dental hygienists. Occasionally, Dr. Simon sees new patients for their initial hygiene visits, so he can spend more time getting to know you.
Depending on how recently your last cleaning was, and the condition of your teeth and gums, other cleaning options and treatments may be recommended. There are multiple types of professional cleanings, both for preventive and therapeutic purposes. If the current condition of your teeth and gums are healthy, you will receive a routine “prophylaxis” cleaning.
For those with active gum and bone disease problems, other professional cleanings may be recommended. These are often called “scaling and root planing” and are done prior to “perio maintenance” cleanings. We take a non-surgical approach to treating periodontal problems. If surgical intervention is necessary, then we refer you to our specialist partners. Dr. Simon will carefully go over all the available options to treat your condition before any cleanings, procedures, or treatments.
Following your cleaning, we’ll provide you with tips to optimize your oral home care regimen so your teeth and gums stay healthy and strong.
Restorative or Cosmetic Issues
After your routine hygiene visit, if additional restorative or cosmetic dental services are necessary, a separate appointment will be made. If your condition is more complex, additional consultations, treatment planning or specialty services may be recommended prior to treatment.
Patient Comfort
At all times, your comfort and ease is our top priority — even after the appointment. After any invasive or extensive treatment, we will call you at home the same night to check on how you are doing. We want you to leave the office feeling informed, confident, and cared for throughout the entire process of creating your new, confident smile.
Take the First Steps Towards a Confident Smile
LOCATION
MALAGA COVE DENTAL ARTS
MICHAEL SIMON DDS
36 MALAGA COVE PLAZA, SUITE #310
PALOS VERDES ESTATES, CA . 90274
Phone: (310) 377-4666