What to Expect at Your First Visit with Dr. Nason
Choosing a new dentist is an important decision. Whether you're new to Gastonia, transitioning from another practice, or finally prioritizing your oral health, your first visit sets the foundation for a long-term partnership. As a trusted new patient dentist, Dr. Nason is committed to making your initial appointment welcoming, informative, and comfortable from start to finish.
If you’re preparing for your first dental visit in Gastonia, here’s exactly what you can expect when you walk through our doors.
A Warm Welcome from Our Team
From the moment you arrive, our goal is to help you feel at home. Our front office team will greet you, assist with any paperwork, and answer your questions.
If you completed your new patient forms online, we’ll verify your information and review any concerns you shared ahead of time. If not, we’re happy to help you complete them in the office.
We value your time, and we make every effort to keep your visit smooth and stress-free.
A Conversation About Your Health and Goals
At your first appointment, we take time to understand the full picture of your oral and overall health. This includes:
Your dental history
Any current concerns or discomfort
Past dental experiences (good or bad)
Your goals for your smile
Relevant medical information
We believe great dentistry starts with great communication. This conversation allows us to create a truly individualized care plan that aligns with your health, comfort, and long-term goals.
Comprehensive Dental Exam & Digital Imaging
Your first visit typically includes a thorough, full-mouth evaluation.
This may involve:
✔ Digital X-rays
These give us a complete view of your teeth, jaw, and bone health, allowing us to detect concerns that aren’t visible during a visual exam.
✔ Periodontal (gum) evaluation
Healthy gums are essential for a healthy smile. We check for signs of inflammation, recession, or early gum disease.
✔ Oral cancer screening
We perform a gentle, noninvasive screening to ensure the health of your soft tissues.
✔ Assessment of existing dental work
We check the integrity of fillings, crowns, bridges, or other restorations.
This comprehensive exam helps us identify anything that might need attention and allows us to tailor your care moving forward.
Professional Cleaning (If Appropriate)
For many new patients, a professional dental cleaning is part of the first appointment.
However, depending on the health of your gums and the findings from your exam, we may schedule your cleaning for a follow-up visit to ensure that the treatment you receive is exactly what your smile needs.
Either way, we always take time to explain the steps involved and answer questions so you feel confident and informed.
Personalized Treatment Recommendations
Once the exam and imaging are complete, Dr. Nason will sit with you to review:
Your current oral health
Any areas of concern
Preventive tips specific to your needs
Recommended next steps
Timeline options for care
We never rush this conversation. Our goal is open communication, trust, and clarity — so you always understand the “why” behind your care plan.
A Comfortable, No-Pressure Experience
Many new patients tell us they feel nervous before their first dental visit — especially if it’s been a while. At our office, compassion and respect guide everything we do.
You can expect:
Gentle, patient-focused care
Honest recommendations
A calming environment
Kind, welcoming team members
Time to ask questions without judgment
Our hope is that you leave feeling informed, supported, and confident in the path ahead.
Tips to Prepare for Your First Appointment
To make your visit even smoother, we recommend:
✔ Completing your new patient forms online
This saves time and allows us to learn your concerns before you arrive.
✔ Bringing a list of medications and medical history
Some conditions can influence oral health — and we want to be thorough.
✔ Arriving a few minutes early
This helps ensure a relaxed, stress-free start.
✔ Writing down any questions
We want you to feel comfortable asking about anything that’s on your mind.
Your First Visit Is the Start of a Trusted Dental Partnership
Your first dental visit is more than just an exam — it’s the beginning of a relationship built on trust, communication, and genuine care.
Whether you’re seeking a more compassionate provider or simply looking for a new patient dentist you can rely on, we’re honored to welcome you into our dental family.
If you're ready to experience a warm, thoughtful first dental visit in Gastonia, we’d love to meet you.
Schedule your first appointment with Dr. Nason today.
