What to Expect During Your New Patient Wellness Exam: A Wellness Approach to Dentistry

At Dr. Katie To’s Center for Wellness Dentistry, we believe that your smile is a window to your overall health. If you have never visited a biological dental office before, you will quickly notice that our approach goes far beyond a standard "cleaning and checkup".

Our New Patient Experience is one of the most important appointments in our office. From comfort menus to a spa-like atmosphere, our goal is to provide the highest standard of dental wellness while getting to the root cause of your health concerns.

Here is a step-by-step look at what you can expect during your comprehensive New Patient Wellness Exam.

1. Welcome and Office Tour

Coming to a new dental office can sometimes feel intimidating, which is why we start your visit with a welcoming office tour. This allows you to become familiar with our surroundings, our philosophy, and our high-tech equipment. During the tour, we will highlight:

• The Consultation Room: Where we use a Phase Contrast Microscope to evaluate your oral bacteria.
• The Imaging Center: Featuring our advanced PANO/CBCT machine, which provides multiple functions with minimal radiation.
• The Photo Studio: Our dedicated space for cosmetic cases and Digital Smile Design (DSD), a customized blueprinting process to create your ideal aesthetic smile.

2. Comprehensive Data Collection and Biomarker Testing

Before the doctor's exam, our clinical team will collect detailed data to understand the current state of your systemic and oral health. This is much more comprehensive than a traditional dental visit and includes:

• Vitals: We record your blood pressure and use a pulse oximeter to check your oxygen levels.
• pH Testing: We place a small strip under your tongue to measure your pH levels, which helps us understand the acidity of your mouth.
• Nitric Oxide Testing: Using a specialized test strip, we check your Nitric Oxide levels to evaluate vital indicators of cardiovascular and oral health.
• Microbiome Evaluation: We take a small sample of your plaque/saliva and place it on a microscope slide so you can see your oral bacteria in real-time. We may also use an OralDNA saliva test for deeper pathogen analysis.

3. Advanced Imaging and Structural Records

To properly diagnose any underlying issues, we capture a complete view of your teeth, jaw, and airway.

• We take a Full Mouth Series (FMX) of radiographs, including panoramic and bitewing images.
• We use a TRIOS scanner to take digital impressions.
• We capture comprehensive intraoral photos, measuring your maximum jaw opening and evaluating your tongue posture.

4. The Doctor’s Exam 

Dr. Katie To, Dr. Luu, or Dr. Jones will sit down with you to discuss your medical history, any specialists you are seeing, and your wellness goals. 

5. Your Customized Wellness Plan and "Homework"

We don't just treat your teeth; we provide you with a roadmap for whole-body wellness. At the end of your visit, the doctor will confirm all findings and outline the next 2 to 3 prioritized steps in your wellness plan.

Because true healing happens at home, you will receive an email containing personalized Patient Homework. Depending on your unique needs, your homework may include:

• Dynamic tongue exercises or cheek stretches.
• Adopting a low-inflammation diet and prioritizing hydration.
• Nightly mouth taping.
• Using specific products like a WaterPik, Xlear Sinus Rinse, or MI Paste.

Ready to Start Your Wellness Journey?

Nothing happens overnight, but taking the initiative on your oral health is the first big step. Our care team is passionate about guiding you toward your wellness goals.

Contact us today to schedule your New Patient Wellness Exam!