Dentist in Devon

Your First Appointment

From the first point of contact we want you to feel confident in the care you will receive from St Paul's Dental Practice.

Our helpful, friendly reception team will take your details and arrange a convenient appointment for you with either, our Treatment Coordinator or Nick Tomes, our Principal Dentist.

Our Treatment Coordinators provide an opportunity for an informal, no obligation meeting to discuss what you would like to achieve from dental treatment, all the treatment options available to you, the estimated costs involved and our payment options.

You will find them friendly and approachable and with plenty of time to discuss how we could help you achieve your dental goals. They will talk through our smile questionnaire and discuss any issues around your general health. This is an ideal time to show you how the practice runs and introduce you to the rest of the team.

This service is complimentary and provided by in house knowledgeable and experienced staff that have the necessary expertise to guide you through the treatment pathway.

An initial appointment lasts approximately 45 minutes.

At your initial appointment with the Dentist, you will receive a thorough, detailed examination, taking in to consideration your individual needs and expectations.

A full examination consists of a systematic process of assessing your teeth and supporting structures.

As well as a visual inspection of your mouth, the exam includes a review of your medical history so the dentist knows about any health conditions that may affect the success of dental treatments or procedures or that may be associated with oral health problems.

It will also include an examination of your neck area, with the dentist feeling the glands and lymph nodes for possible signs of inflammation that could indicate general health problems and signs of oral cancer.

Comprehensive diagnostic investigations will assist the dentist in determining the best treatment options for your individual case. This may include x-rays if required, which will assist in planning your treatment appropriately.

Your dentist will discuss all the options available and will allow time to answer any questions you may have. After agreeing a treatment plan with you, this will be written up for you to receive a copy and will include an evaluation of all the proposed costs involved.

This initial dental consultation usually takes between 30 to 45 minutes; see our fee guide for costs.

It is useful if you can complete a medical history form and smile questionnaire before your appointment and bring them with you.

Alternatively if it is just the Hygienist you wish to see under our direct access service, our reception staff will take the necessary details from you to book your first appointment and provide you with detailed information about this service. Your first direct access appointment is a double appointment, lasting 40 minutes to allow time for the Hygienist to assess your oral health as well as complete any treatment.