Kelly and Patient

Emergency Exams:

 At the very least we will try to get you in the same day for a problem focused exam, an x-ray when necessary, a local anesthetic if necessitated to stop the pain within 2-3 minutes and prescriptions for pain medications or antibiotics if needed. If time permits and you need a filling, extraction of a tooth or a complete new patient exam, we will make every effort to accommodate you. Mainly we want to get you comfortable as quickly as possible and that is our first objective.

New Patient Exams:

This involves you coming to the office for your appointment about 15 minutes early to complete a personal data form, a general health and dental information section as well as any information on any dental insurance you may or may not have. If you are transferring to our office from another provider, it can be very helpful (and possibly save you some money) if you request in advance (give at least 1 week notice where possible) all written treatment records and x-rays taken within the last 3 years. This information belongs to you and you have a right to it.  We have a request form which we can send requesting this information, and you have signed it.

Once the above information is available, we will seat you for a thorough dental evaluation including x-rays and a first rate cleaning by our very competent Registered Dental Hygienist, Emily. Dr. Lofgren will check your TMJ’s, do an oral cancer screen, look for any signs of gum disease, bite problems and of course, a tooth by tooth examination. All missing teeth, loose teeth, previously done fillings, crowns and prostheses will be noted.

Diagnodent - This is a new, state of the art technology we often use. It is a quick, painless device that helps us to find cavities in the earliest beginning stages which are otherwise undetectable with the old standby, the dental explorer. Cavities detected in this early stage can often be filled pain free and quickly with no local anesthetic needed!

Dr. Lofgren feels it is his job to advise you of all dental problems found and any different ways those problems can be solved. A computer printed treatment plan along with a cost estimate based on what you think sounds the best for your personal situation will be provided. There will be absolutely no pressure to talk you into doing something you’re not ready for. The main thing is for you to get a plan in mind that you’re comfortable with in terms of cost, length of treatment time involved and what seems most urgent.