Your First Visit
Chapter One:
Walking In and Feeling Right At Home
Your first visit says more about a dental office than any brochure ever could. That’s why we slow things down and warm them up: the music is familiar (80s jams, the good kind), it smells amazing (not that weird dental office smell, we promise), and our team isn’t rushing or flustered – someone stands to greet you, eye to eye, and there’s always laughter somewhere down the hall.
We take care with every part of your visit. Not just the dentistry itself, but the way you feel while you’re here. You’ll meet each team member by name as you move through your appointment, so you’re never left wondering who’s who or what’s next.
This isn’t a transaction. It’s the start of a relationship with people who genuinely care.
What to Expect on Your First Visit
Your appointment lasts about two hours, not because we love keeping you in the chair, but because there’s a lot to understand, and even more to listen to.
Step 1:
Arriving at Our Kettering Office
Come a few minutes early, settle in. You’ll be greeted, offered something to drink and even a snack, and guided through any forms you haven’t completed yet.
Step 2:
Getting to Know You
We’ll take time to talk: not just about your dental history, but what’s going on in your world. Your family, work, weekend plans; it all helps us see the person behind the chart. We’ll talk about your goals, your history, and the little things that make dental visits easier or harder for you.
Step 3:
The Most Thorough Dental Exam You’ve Had
Get Cozy: While you’re here, we want you relaxed! You’ll be offered a soft blanket and a neck pillow to get you comfortable.
Get Checked: Dr. Callejo will join you for a detailed exam, including screenings for gum disease and oral cancer. See what we see! Every image, scan, and photo instantly appears on the screen in front of you. Nothing is hidden, and every option is discussed openly: expect curiosity, a lot of clarity, and no pressure.
Get Clear: By the time you leave, you won’t just hear about your dental health; you’ll see and understand exactly what’s happening in your mouth and why.
Step 4:
The Handoff
At Artisan Dental Group, you’re never left alone or confused about what’s next. Our team passes your care from one person to the next with introductions and presence, making your entire visit feel seamless and considered.
Financial Clarity
Finances shouldn’t feel like fine print, and it’s always easier when someone explains it like a real person. While we’re not insurance-driven, our front desk team is excellent at explaining how your benefits work and how to use them wisely. We’ll walk you through costs, co-pays, and payment options with patience and ease. The thing we care most about is to empower you to make informed, confident decisions about your care.
You can also finance your treatment through CareCredit and other third-party financing companies that provide short-term, no-interest credit for dental and medical care procedures.
What to Bring
- Photo ID and insurance card (if applicable)
- Your patient forms
- Any recent x-rays or records (we can also request these for you)
- A list of medications
- Questions, concerns, and your own story (we want to hear it!)
For Our Nervous Patients
Dental visits can bring up nerves, especially if you’ve had a rough experience before. Many of our patients come to us carrying old memories of discomfort or embarrassment, so we’ve built our care around changing that story.
Our job is to meet you where you are, whether that means taking things slow or offering gentle sedation to help you relax. We’re fully trained and certified in several forms of safe, comfortable sedation, and we’ll talk through each option together so you always feel in control.
There are blankets and pillows if you’d like them, but the real comfort comes from the people.
We don’t judge, lecture, or rush. You’ve already done the hardest part by walking through the door. We’ll help you with the rest.
What We Hold Close
We believe in doing the least amount of dentistry necessary, and doing it well enough to last. The goal is always to preserve what’s natural, not replace it. You’ll never be rushed or pushed into treatment; instead, we’ll map out your options clearly and help you make decisions that feel right for you.
Want to start looking forward to your dental appointments?
Let’s make that happen! We’d love to meet you.