What to Expect at Your First Dental Visit with Gentle Care Dentistry

Whether you're new to Hornsby, haven’t seen a dentist in years, or are simply looking for a gentler experience, visiting the dentist for the first time can feel a little daunting. At Gentle Care Dentistry, we’ve built our reputation on making patients feel at ease — from the moment they walk through the door.

In this article, we’ll walk you through what to expect at your first visit and how we tailor our care to suit your comfort, goals, and oral health needs.

A Warm Welcome from the Start

When you arrive at our Hornsby clinic, you’ll be greeted by our friendly reception team. We encourage you to arrive a little early to complete a medical and dental history form. This gives us valuable insight into your current health, any medications you take, and past dental experiences — all of which help us provide personalised care.

If you feel nervous or have had negative experiences in the past, please let us know. Our team is here to listen without judgement and help you feel comfortable throughout the entire appointment.

Comprehensive Examination and X-rays

Your first visit includes a thorough examination by one of our experienced dentists. We’ll check your teeth, gums, tongue, and jaw, looking for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, bite problems, and oral cancer. In many cases, we’ll also take diagnostic X-rays to assess bone health and identify any issues that can’t be seen with the naked eye.

We use modern, low-radiation digital imaging for accurate and efficient results.

Scale, Clean and Polish

For most patients, the first visit also includes a professional clean to remove plaque, tartar, and surface stains. We use gentle ultrasonic scalers and polishing tools to ensure a deep clean without discomfort.

This not only leaves your teeth feeling smooth and fresh, but also reduces your risk of gum disease and future dental issues.

Open Conversation and Tailored Advice

Your oral health goals are just as important as your clinical needs. We take time to discuss your concerns, lifestyle, and habits — whether you're interested in teeth whitening, concerned about grinding at night, or curious about braces or Invisalign®.

We’ll also provide advice on oral hygiene routines, diet, and preventive care, ensuring you're well-informed and confident about your next steps.

Follow-Up and Ongoing Care

At the end of your appointment, we’ll provide a treatment plan if any follow-up work is recommended. Whether it’s a simple filling or a more complex procedure, we’ll talk you through your options, costs, and timeframes.

Regular check-ups (every six months) are encouraged to maintain your oral health and catch issues early.

At Gentle Care Dentistry, our aim is simple: to help you enjoy a healthy smile for life — comfortably and confidently.