Your First Dental Visit at Family Dental Care, Campbelltown

Starting with a new dentist can feel awkward, especially if it has been a while since your last check-up. At Family Dental Care, we have been caring for patients in Campbelltown and the Macarthur region since 1993, and our approach has not changed: we are here to help, not to criticise. This page explains exactly what happens at your first adult visit, what to bring, what it may cost and how to book.

Why choose Family Dental Care as your Campbelltown dentist?

• 33+ years in Campbelltown. Established in 1993, we know the local community and many families see us across generations.
• Open 7 days, including Saturday and Sunday. Easier to fit around work, study and family. See our Sunday dentist in Campbelltown page.
• Gentle care for nervous patients. We offer the Pain Free Wand and Happy Gas and anxiety management.
• Clear plans and costs. You receive a written treatment plan with expected health fund item numbers and fees, and nothing starts until you understand it.
• Careful infection control. Read about our sterilisation process.
• Family friendly. We see adults, children and seniors, so the whole household can book with one clinic.

Before your appointment: what to bring

• A list of your medications. Many medications affect dental treatment, so your dentist needs to know about them.
• Your completed medical history form. One form per person. You can download it, fill it in at home and bring it, or complete it at reception. It includes our financial and privacy policies.
• Your health fund card (and any Medicare, DVA or concession cards that apply).
• Recent X-rays or dental records, if you have changed dentists recently. This can save you repeat X-rays.

Please arrive 10–15 minutes early so you are not rushed. We are in Shop 102, 6/8 Dumaresq Street, with entry via the car park.

What happens at your first adult dental visit

Here is what to expect, step by step.

1. A friendly welcome. Your dentist will usually greet you in the waiting room and walk you to the treatment room. You will wash your hands, meet the dental assistant and get comfortable in the chair.
2. A chat first. Tell us your concerns, any pain, and your goals. There is no judgement, whether it has been 6 months or 16 years since your last visit.
3. A full examination. Unless you are coming in for emergency treatment, we recommend a full examination so you know exactly where you stand. It usually includes:
• Checking your teeth for decay, fractures, abnormal wear or erosion
• Usually 2 standard X-rays to look for problems inside the teeth and in the supporting bone
• Full dental charting
• A check of your gums for gingivitis or periodontitis (gum disease)
• A check of the skin inside your mouth and your tongue for ulcers, inflammation or other changes, including early signs of oral cancer
• Photos, if needed
4. Your personal treatment plan. We explain what we found and your options, suggest ways to prevent problems (such as fissure sealants or fluoride treatments where suitable), and refer you to a specialist if you need one. We also discuss the best timing and order of treatment.
5. Costs and payment options. You receive a printed treatment plan with expected health fund item numbers and fees. Our team can give rebate quotes through our HICAPS terminal so you know your estimated gap before you decide.
6. Payment and your next visit. Your dentist walks you back to reception, where you pay and book any follow-up appointments.

If you have a more complex situation, we may need extra time or a second appointment to complete everything properly. If time allows and you want other treatment on the day, your dentist will discuss it and the fees with you first.

How much does a first visit cost?

The cost depends on the examination, the X-rays needed and any treatment you choose. We will always explain the fees before anything is done.

To understand your cost, see:

• Costs and rebates
• Interest-free payment plans
• DVA Gold Card patients
• Medicare Child Dental Benefits Schedule

Nervous about visiting the dentist?

You are not alone. Many adults feel anxious about the dentist, and that is a common reason people delay care. Tell our team when you book or when you arrive. We can go at your pace, explain each step before we do it, and use options such as the Pain Free Wand or Happy Gas where suitable. Read more about Happy Gas and anxiety management.

In pain or have a dental emergency?

If you have a toothache, swelling, a broken tooth or an injury, call us on (02) 4625 4897 and tell the receptionist you are in pain. We will do our best to see you as soon as possible. See our emergency dentist in Campbelltown page and our guide to toothaches.

If you have severe swelling that affects your breathing or swallowing, go to your nearest hospital emergency department or call 000.

What happens after your first visit?

Your dentist will recommend what you need next and how often to return for check-ups, based on your own oral health. Our focus is on prevention, so we find small problems early before they become painful or expensive. Depending on your needs, follow-up may include a clean, fillings, gum disease treatment, or restorative options such as crowns and bridges or dental implants.

Information for other patients

• Your child’s first dental visit
• Seniors
• Pregnancy and dental care
• Special needs
• Accessing your dental records
• Patient rights

Confidentiality

All information you give us, or that is discussed in the treatment rooms or at the front desk, is held in strict confidence. See our privacy policy.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a first appointment take? 

It depends on your needs. Allow extra time for your forms and examination. Complex cases may need an additional appointment.

Do I need X-rays at my first visit? 

Usually, yes. We normally take 2 standard X-rays to check for problems inside the teeth and in the supporting bone that cannot be seen by looking alone. Your dentist will explain what is needed for you. If you have recent X-rays from another dentist, please bring them.

Will the examination hurt? 

A check-up is generally comfortable. If you feel anxious or have a sensitive tooth, tell us and we will adjust our approach.

Can I have treatment on the same day?

If time allows and you want it, other treatment can be discussed on the day and the fees explained before we begin. Emergency patients are treated according to their needs.

Do you offer health fund rebates? 

Yes, our HICAPS terminal lets us provide rebate quotes so you can see your estimated gap. Your exact rebate depends on your fund and cover, so check your policy limits with your fund as well.

Are you open on weekends? 

Yes. We are open Saturday 7.30am–4.00pm and Sunday 9.00am–2.30pm, as well as weekdays 8.30am–6.00pm.

I haven’t been to a dentist in years. Will I be judged? 

No. Many new patients have not had a visit for a long time. Our job is to find out what is going on and help you make a plan at your pace.

Do you see children as well as adults? 

Yes. We are a family dental clinic. See our page on your child’s first dental visit.

Where do I park? 

Our entry is via the car park at 6/8 Dumaresq Street, Campbelltown.