Your First Visit—What to Expect at Dr. David M. Boyd’s Office

Thank you for choosing Dr. David M. Boyd for all your dental care needs. We’re honored to welcome you into our practice family and want you to feel completely comfortable from the moment you arrive. Our office has been designed to create a calm, caring atmosphere where patients can relax and feel confident in the quality of care they receive.

We know that visiting a new dentist can bring questions or a bit of nervousness, especially if it has been a while since your last appointment. That’s why we take extra time to explain what to expect, answer every question, and make sure you feel supported throughout your visit.

What to Expect at Your First Appointment

Your first appointment is about getting to know you—not just your teeth, but also your goals, history, and expectations for your smile. When you arrive, you’ll be greeted by our friendly front-desk staff and asked to complete new-patient forms and insurance information if you haven’t already submitted them online. We recommend arriving a few minutes early to give yourself time to get settled.

During your first visit, Dr. Boyd will review your medical and dental history, discuss any concerns or symptoms, and perform a comprehensive oral evaluation. This exam gives us a complete picture of your current dental health and helps us develop a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your needs and preferences.

Please bring the following to your first visit:

• Any panoramic or full-mouth X-rays taken within the last six months
• Your dental insurance card (if applicable) so we can help estimate costs and coverage
• A list of any medications you’re currently taking

Providing these items allows us to start your care efficiently and accurately.

Comprehensive Exam and Cleaning

Your initial exam typically lasts about one hour. During this appointment, Dr. Boyd will perform a thorough evaluation of your teeth, gums, jaw, and overall oral health. In most cases, a professional cleaning is also completed at the same visit.

Digital X-rays will be taken to help us detect early signs of cavities, bone loss, or infection. Dr. Boyd will examine your teeth for decay, check the health of your gums, evaluate your bite and jaw alignment, and screen for oral cancer. These diagnostic steps allow us to identify potential concerns early and address them before they become more serious.

After reviewing your results, Dr. Boyd will explain his findings clearly and outline any recommended treatments. You’ll receive a complete overview of your oral health, including preventive steps you can take at home to maintain or improve your smile.

We encourage you to ask questions at any time. Our team believes that informed patients make the best decisions about their care, so we’ll take the time to discuss every detail—from treatment options to payment plans—in a way that’s easy to understand.

Open Communication and Trust

At the office of Dr. David M. Boyd, open communication is at the heart of everything we do. We believe that strong doctor-patient relationships lead to the best outcomes. You can expect complete transparency about your diagnosis, treatment options, and any alternative approaches available.

If Dr. Boyd identifies a condition that may require specialized care, such as advanced periodontal or orthodontic treatment, he will refer you to a trusted specialist while continuing to coordinate your overall care. Our team will stay in touch to ensure you receive consistent support every step of the way.

By working together, we can achieve a shared goal—maintaining a healthy, confident smile for life.

Call our office today at (573) 379-3650 or email julie_appointments@sbcglobal.net to schedule your first visit. We’ll help you complete your forms, review insurance details, and make your appointment as easy as possible.