Hite Family Dentistry
Dr. Benjamin Hite
Our office will be closed on 11/27 and 11/28 for the holiday. We look forward to helping you when we reopen on 12/1. 
happy family in edwardsville il

What to Expect at Your First Visit to Hite Family Dentistry

November 17, 2025
|
Posted By: Dr. Ben Hite
smiling dental patient in edwardsville il

The thought of going to the dentist makes many people feel a bit anxious and apprehensive, especially when it’s your first time and you don’t know what to expect. It’s normal to feel unsure about what’s going to happen or how the dental team works to get you the care you deserve.

That’s why we thought it would be a good idea to put your mind at ease and give you a breakdown of your first visit with us, from start to finish.

Your First Dental Visit at Hite Family Dentistry

When you choose our dental office for your family’s oral health needs, we’ll work to schedule appointments at convenient times that work with your schedule.

Here’s what you can expect to happen during your first visit with us:

Initial Greeting and Paperwork

When you arrive at our office, you’ll receive a warm greeting from one of our team members. We’ll ask you to fill out a new patient form and show us your insurance card if you have one. If you don’t have dental insurance, we’ll mention our Smile Advantage Plan, which offers preventive treatments and a discount on other services for one annual fee.

Examination and Cleaning

Next, we’ll escort you to a comfortable treatment room, and one of our hygienists will take any necessary x-rays, examine your teeth and gums, and clean your teeth. This professional cleaning removes the stubborn plaque and tartar buildup on your teeth. Then, they will polish and floss your teeth to keep them looking and feeling their best until your next visit.

Dentist Examination

Once your teeth are cleaned and polished, one of our dentists will examine your teeth and gums, looking for any signs of tooth decay, gum disease, or other issues. Then they will check your jaw function and conduct an oral cancer screening.

Diagnosis and Treatment Plan

If you have any dental concerns that need to be addressed, we’ll discuss our findings and answer your questions before recommending a treatment plan to restore your oral health. If you agree to the proposed treatment plan, we’ll schedule any follow-up visits before you leave.

Ready to Schedule an Appointment in Edwardsville, IL?

When you’re ready to experience what quality dental care looks like in Edwardsville, our experienced dental team will happily assist you! At Hite Family Dentistry, we strive to make you and your loved ones feel comfortable and achieve the best oral health possible.

To schedule a consultation or appointment, please reach out to us at (618) 656-9123.

If you have difficulty using our website, please email us or call us at (618) 656-9123
View the ADA Accessibility Statement