What To Expect / FAQ
What should I expect to experience during my first appointment?
Welcome! Our team wants to make sure your first experience is as smooth as possible here at Bernal Heights Smiles. If you do not have any recent full-mouth X-rays from a previous dental office, then X-rays are required to provide an accurate and current picture of your teeth and jaw. Our advanced digital X-ray machines give off much lower radiation than traditional film X-rays. A comprehensive exam will then be provided by the doctor followed by a cleaning if appropriate. Most new patient appointments take one visit. However, if you have a complex treatment plan then sometimes it may take two visits in order to provide adequate time for your questions or concerns. We want to provide the best possible care for you and your family.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
After setting up an appointment, you will receive a text and email link to our online new patient forms. Please fill them out within a week as they do expire. Please come 10 minutes early if there are any concerns/issues not addressed in the new patient forms with our front desk team.
I am a new patient and I only want a teeth cleaning.
We look forward to meeting you! A teeth cleaning (or dental prophylaxis) is a specific dental treatment. Each person's mouth and body is different. It is inappropriate to provide any treatment without a proper diagnosis. In order to provide appropriate treatment for you, especially as a new patient, a thorough exam with appropriate X-rays are needed to properly assess the condition of your mouth. It is the standard of care. Right after your first exam, you may have your teeth cleaned during your first appointment.
Do you offer emergency dental services?
Yes, we provide emergency dental care to existing and new patients. Please give us a call at 415-641-8900 immediately and we will do our best to relieve your dental pain or address any pressing concerns. If you have a life-threatening condition, please call 911 or seek a hospital emergency room.
Do you take my insurance?
Bernal Heights Smiles accepts all PPO plans. We are in-network with Delta Dental, Cigna, Metlife & Guardian. Do keep in mind that most dental insurance plans differ vastly than medical plans. They are often very limited in coverage. We will do our best to maximize your current dental insurance benefits while providing high-quality, comprehensive dental care. Please give us a call at 415-641-8900 to inquire about your specific plan.