Nervous about the dentist? Here's exactly what happens.
Lots of our patients haven't seen a dentist in a long while — and that's completely okay. Whether it's been two years or twenty, you won't hear a lecture from us. Here's exactly how a first visit goes, step by step, so there are no surprises.
Step 1: Say hello
Call us at (510) 532-8972, request an appointment online, or just walk in during office hours — Monday through Friday, 9 am to 5 pm. Tell us what's going on, even if it's just "I need a checkup." Our front desk will take your information, check your insurance if you have any, and get you into a room.
Step 2: Get comfortable
We'll take digital x-rays (fast, low-radiation, no uncomfortable film) and one of our dentists will do a thorough but gentle exam. We look at your teeth, gums, bite, and jaw, and screen for oral cancer. Everything is explained in plain language as we go. If you're nervous, tell us — we go at your pace.
Step 3: Make a plan together
After the exam, we sit down and talk. You'll get clear options and honest pricing up front, so you can decide what's right for you. If something can wait, we'll say so. If something is urgent, we'll explain why. There's no pressure to do everything at once — we'll help you prioritize based on your needs and budget.
Step 4: Leave smiling
We'll book your next visit, answer every last question, and send you off feeling good about what comes next. Most first visits — exam, x-rays, and a cleaning — take about an hour.
What to bring
Bring a photo ID and your insurance card (Denti-Cal BIC, PPO card, or both). If you're a new patient, you can save time by filling out your health history form online before you arrive. Don't have insurance? No problem — just come in and we'll talk through your options.
If you haven't been in years
You're not alone. Many of our patients walk in after a long gap, and we see it every day. There's no judgment here — just a straightforward exam and an honest conversation about where things stand. Often it's not as bad as you feared, and even when there's work to do, we'll help you tackle it one step at a time.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a first visit take?+
Plan on about an hour for a comprehensive exam, digital x-rays, and a cleaning. If you need additional treatment, we'll schedule that separately unless it's urgent.
Do I need to fill out forms before I come?+
You can fill out your health history form online at our website before your visit to save time. If you prefer, you can also fill it out on paper at the front desk when you arrive.
Can I walk in for my first visit?+
Yes. Walk-ins are welcome Monday through Friday, 9 am to 5 pm. No appointment needed.
What if I'm really nervous?+
Tell us — genuinely. Our team works with anxious patients every day. We'll explain each step before we do it, go at your pace, and check in with you throughout. You're always in control.
Do you accept Denti-Cal for new patients?+
Yes. We accept Denti-Cal (Medi-Cal Dental) for new patients. Bring your BIC card or member ID and we'll verify your coverage while you wait.
Ready to take the first step? Walk in or request an appointment.
Related services
We'd love to hear from you.
Give the office a ring and a real person will pick up — questions about treatment, insurance or scheduling are always welcome. Prefer to write? Send us a message and we'll get back to you.
Three easy ways to reach us
- (510) 532-8972
Call the office
Fastest for questions, walk-in timing and urgent dental pain. A real person answers during office hours.
Alternate line: (510) 532-8995
- Start request
Request an appointment online
Takes a few minutes. We'll review it and contact you to confirm a date and time.
- Get directions
Walk in
Walk-ins are welcome during office hours. Call ahead so we can prepare a room for you.
2648 International Blvd, Ste 602, Oakland, CA 94601 · Mon – Fri · 9am – 5pm