New patients
Welcome. Here is how your first visit works.
We are accepting new patients of all ages from age 3 and up. Whether it has been six months or sixteen years since your last visit, the first appointment is unhurried, thorough and free of judgment.
What to bring
- Photo ID
- Dental insurance card
- List of medications and supplements
- Recent X-rays, if you have them
- Questions. We want them.
Your first visit, step by step
No surprises. This is exactly what happens.
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Call or request an appointment online. Tell us if anything hurts so we can prioritize.
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Complete your new patient forms before the visit so your first appointment is about you, not paperwork.
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Arrive a few minutes early with your photo ID, insurance card and a list of medications.
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Meet your hygienist for X-rays as needed, periodontal charting and a thorough cleaning.
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Dr. Carter examines your teeth, gums and bite, screens for oral cancer, and reviews everything with you on screen.
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Leave with a clear, prioritized plan and a written estimate for anything beyond preventive care.
Insurance and payment
We verify your benefits before you arrive and explain costs before treatment.
In-network plans
- Delta Dental of California (Premier)
- Cigna PPO
- MetLife PPO
- Dental Benefit Providers
Many other PPO plans can be used out of network. Call and we will explain how your plan works with our office.
Financing
CareCredit offers low minimum monthly payment plans for treatment not covered by insurance. All financial arrangements are pre-approved with our financial coordinators before treatment begins.
Insurance & financing detailsNew patient questions
How long is a new patient visit?
Plan on about 60 to 90 minutes for a comprehensive exam, X-rays and cleaning. If your gums need a deeper cleaning, we may schedule that separately.
What should I bring?
A photo ID, your dental insurance card, a list of medications and supplements, and any recent X-rays from a previous dentist if you have them.
I have not been to a dentist in years. Will I be judged?
No. A large share of our new patients have been away for a long time. We start where you are and build a simple plan, one step at a time.
Do you see children?
Yes, from age 3. Younger children and those who need a pediatric specialist are referred to a pediatric dental office.
Can I transfer my records from another office?
Yes. Ask your previous dentist to send X-rays and records to our office, or sign a release with us and we will request them.
What if I am afraid of the dentist?
Tell us when you schedule. We can plan a slower first visit, agree on a hand signal to pause, and discuss oral sedation for treatment appointments.
Ready to book? We are accepting new patients.
Call (707) 453-1776 or request an appointment online. Our front office will verify your insurance and find a time that fits, Monday through Thursday.