What to Expect
Your first visit
Whether it's been six months or six years, your first visit to Roanoke Dental Center is designed to feel easy — not intimidating.
Reviewed by our dentists — Updated April 2026
Before you arrive
Complete your patient registration through our secure portal before your appointment — it saves time and lets us focus on you when you arrive.
When you arrive
Plan to arrive about 15 minutes early for your first visit. A member of our front-office team will greet you, verify your information, and walk you back when your operatory is ready.
In the chair
Your first visit usually includes:
- A comprehensive exam of your teeth, gums, bite, and jaw
- X-rays as needed (we'll explain why before we take any)
- An oral cancer screening
- A periodontal (gum) evaluation
- A professional cleaning, if scheduled and your gums are healthy enough
- A conversation about what we found and your options
Treatment planning
If we find anything that needs attention, we'll show you — on X-rays and with the intraoral camera when helpful. We'll explain your options, what each one costs, and how insurance or the Virginia Dental Club might help. No pressure. No same-day hard sells.
Questions? Good.
Ask them. All of them. We'd rather you leave informed than leave confused.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the first dental visit take?+
Plan for about an hour. That gives us time for a comprehensive exam, any X-rays needed, a conversation about what we find, and a cleaning if your gums are healthy enough and we've reserved the time.
What should I bring to my first appointment?+
A photo ID, your insurance card (if you have one), a list of any medications you're taking, and any questions or concerns. Completing your patient registration online before you arrive saves time.
Will I get a cleaning on my first visit?+
If your gums are healthy and we've scheduled the time, yes. Let us know when you book that you'd like a cleaning at the same appointment so we can reserve enough time for everything.
What if I haven't been to a dentist in years?+
That's completely fine. Many of our patients at Roanoke Dental Center come in after a long gap. We don't lecture. We just take a look at where things stand and build a plan together.
Do you take X-rays at the first visit?+
We take X-rays only when clinically needed, and we'll explain why before we take any. Digital X-rays use significantly less radiation than traditional film and give us a clear picture of what's happening beneath the surface.
Will I feel pressured to commit to treatment on my first visit?+
Never. We explain what we find, show you the evidence, outline your options and costs, and let you decide. No same-day hard sells. No pressure.
★ When You're Ready
Come see for yourself.
Take your time choosing the office that fits.
Pick the Cave Spring office that's closer to you. Appointment scheduling is open 24/7 by phone or online — clinical visits are Monday–Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM at both offices.
Visit Electric Rd
2660 Electric Rd Suite A
Visit Brambleton Ave
4907 Brambleton Ave
Or call the front desk