What to Expect at Your Exam and Cleaning
A Thoughtful, Comprehensive Dental Examination
Every new patient begins with a detailed exam performed by Dr. Ferrera. His experience enables him to identify early changes in dental health that can be easily missed. This diagnostic process ensures you receive the type of care that genuinely fits your needs.
Your exam may include:
Digital X-Rays
These images reveal concerns that cannot be seen visually, such as decay between teeth, bone levels, and the condition of older restorations. Most patients receive bitewing X-rays, and in some cases, a panoramic radiograph is recommended.
Evaluation of Teeth and Soft Tissues
Dr. Ferrera examines:
- Each tooth surface
- Gums and signs of inflammation
- Soft tissues of the mouth
- Existing dental work
- Areas showing wear, cracks, or early decay
Periodontal Assessment
Understanding your gum health is essential. Dr. Ferrera measures the spaces between your teeth and gums to determine if you have healthy tissue, gingivitis, or periodontal disease. These measurements guide the cleaning process and help set realistic expectations for your visit.
This exam provides a clear baseline for your treatment plan, ensuring you will not be surprised by any unexpected developments later.
A Cleaning That Matches Your Needs
After the exam, one of our hygienists evaluates your gum health and determines the type of cleaning that is most appropriate for your condition.
If You Visit Regularly
Patients who maintain three to six-month cleaning visits often require a standard preventive cleaning. This visit removes plaque and tartar above the gumline, helping to prevent more serious problems from developing.
If It Has Been Several Years
If you have not been to the dentist in a long time, you may require more than a standard cleaning. Significant tartar buildup, inflammation, or periodontal disease may necessitate a more extensive cleaning. Dr. Ferrera and the hygienist explain every finding and will never proceed without your approval.
When Patients Book a Cleaning Special
Occasionally, a patient schedules a cleaning special believing it will be a straightforward visit, only to discover they need periodontal treatment. In those cases, our team pauses the cleaning and explains the findings. Any promotional cleaning fee can be applied toward the clinically appropriate service. This ensures that your treatment reflects your actual oral health, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
Clear, Honest Expectations About Cost
One of the most important concerns for new patients is the cost of care. While it is not possible to publish exact prices for every situation, Dr. Ferrera believes patients should always understand why costs vary and what influences their treatment plan.
Common factors that affect cost include:
- Type of cleaning required
- Time since your last dental visit
- Condition of your gums and bone
- Amount of tartar buildup
- Need for X-rays or additional diagnostic procedures
Exam fees are typically fixed. The cleaning portion varies only when periodontal treatment is needed or when additional visits are required.
Ferrera Dental Care also offers a membership plan designed especially for patients without insurance. The plan includes discounted exams, cleanings, and X-rays, as well as fluoride treatments and benefits like reduced fees for whitening. For many patients, the membership plan provides predictable yearly costs and added savings on preventive and cosmetic services.
Avoiding Surprises and Helping You Feel Prepared
Many new patients are concerned about unexpected costs or not knowing what will happen during the visit. Dr. Ferrera understands this and believes that education is one of the most important parts of a first appointment.
By walking you through the exam, explaining what the hygienist sees, and clarifying why a certain cleaning or treatment is needed, the team helps eliminate the guesswork. New patients often feel more relaxed once they understand what to expect and how their oral health influences the next steps.
This approach reflects Ferrera Dental Care’s philosophy. A well-informed patient is a more comfortable patient, and long-term oral health improves when expectations are clear from the beginning.
Why Experience Matters
Patients trust Dr. Ferrera because he brings many years of clinical experience, along with a calm and detailed approach to diagnosis. He takes time to explain conditions in everyday language so you know exactly what is happening and why. His recommendations reflect what will provide the best long-term results for each individual, not a generic plan that treats every patient the same.
At Ferrera Dental Care, you will find:
- A patient-first approach that emphasizes comfort and education
- Treatment options tailored to your specific oral health
- A team that values clarity and transparency
- Sedation dentistry options for anxious or complex cases
- A commitment to preventive care that prioritizes early detection
Your First Visit Awaits
If you are looking for a trusted dentist in New Tampa or it has been a while since your last checkup, scheduling an exam with Dr. Ferrera is the best way to regain control of your oral health.
You will leave your visit with:
- A complete understanding of your dental and periodontal health
- Clear explanations of recommended treatments
- Awareness of how costs are determined
- A personalized plan created with your long-term well-being in mind
Ferrera Dental Care & Sedation Dentistry is here to make your dental experience comfortable, predictable, and free from surprises.