If you’re scheduling your first dental exam at Pickett Family Dental in Keller, TX—whether it’s your first in years or simply your first visit with us—you’re taking a smart, healthy step toward protecting your smile. Dental exams are one of the most important parts of preventive care, and knowing what to expect can help you feel more comfortable, confident, and prepared.
At Pickett Family Dental, we take pride in providing care that’s thorough, gentle, and never rushed. We want every patient—new or returning—to feel informed and supported at every step. Here’s exactly what you can expect during your first dental exam at our Keller office.
A Warm Welcome and Stress-Free Check-In
Your experience starts as soon as you walk through our doors. Our front desk team will greet you and assist with any necessary paperwork. If you’ve already filled out forms online, your check-in will be quick and easy. We’ll collect your medical history, insurance information (if applicable), and any details about dental concerns or medications.
If you’re feeling nervous, let us know. We work with many patients who have dental anxiety and are happy to explain each step, answer questions, and offer solutions to make your visit as comfortable as possible.
A Conversation About Your Oral Health
Your dental health is unique, so we start by listening. During your first visit, you’ll meet with Dr. Tyson Pickett, DDS FAGD or one of our skilled hygienists to discuss:
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Your dental and medical history
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Any current symptoms like tooth sensitivity, bleeding gums, or jaw pain
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Lifestyle habits that may impact your oral health (diet, smoking, etc.)
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Your goals for your smile, including concerns about appearance or function
This conversation helps us understand what matters most to you and shapes your personalized care plan moving forward.
A Thorough, Gentle Dental Cleaning
Unless you’re visiting specifically for a dental emergency, your first dental exam will include a professional cleaning. One of our friendly dental hygienists will gently remove plaque, tartar, and surface stains from your teeth. This process is essential for preventing tooth decay and gum disease—even if you brush and floss regularly at home.
Your hygienist will also:
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Polish your teeth for a smooth, clean feel
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Floss between your teeth
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Offer tips for home care tailored to your needs
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Apply fluoride treatment (if recommended, especially for kids and teens)
We aim to make cleanings comfortable, efficient, and pain-free—even if it’s been a while since your last one.
Digital X-Rays for a Deeper Look
To get a complete picture of your oral health, we’ll likely take digital X-rays during your first exam. These images help us see what’s going on beneath the surface—such as:
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Cavities between teeth
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Infections or abscesses
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Bone loss around teeth or implants
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Wisdom tooth development
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Impacted teeth or bite alignment issues
Digital X-rays are quick, safe, and emit far less radiation than traditional ones. If you’ve had recent X-rays at another office, feel free to bring them or have them sent to us ahead of time.
Comprehensive Dental Exam by Dr. Pickett
Once your cleaning and X-rays are complete, Dr. Pickett will perform a detailed oral exam. He’ll inspect each tooth, evaluate your gums, check your bite alignment, and look for any signs of dental problems.
He’ll also perform an oral cancer screening, which includes examining the soft tissues of your mouth, throat, and neck. This is a quick but vital part of every adult exam that allows us to identify any early warning signs of serious conditions.
If we notice anything concerning, we’ll walk you through the findings clearly and recommend next steps. You’ll never be left wondering or pressured into treatment you don’t understand.
Creating Your Personalized Care Plan
At the end of your exam, we’ll review everything we’ve learned and work with you to create a care plan that fits your needs and goals. This may include:
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A timeline for routine cleanings and exams
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Recommendations for additional treatments, like fillings or crowns
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Cosmetic options if you’re interested in improving the look of your smile
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At-home care tips to maintain a healthy mouth
We’ll answer all your questions and provide cost estimates and insurance information before any treatment begins.
A Fresh Start for Your Smile
If it’s been a long time since your last exam, you’re not alone—and you won’t be judged. Our team is here to help you move forward with positivity and support. Even if treatment is needed, many issues can be addressed quickly and comfortably thanks to modern techniques and technology.
Regular dental exams allow us to catch small problems before they become bigger ones—and they help protect not just your teeth, but your overall health.
Ready to Schedule Your First Dental Exam in Keller?
At Pickett Family Dental, we welcome new patients of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you’re new to Keller or just looking for a dentist who truly listens and cares, we’d love to meet you.
Call us today to schedule your first dental exam or use our online form to request an appointment. We’re conveniently located near Keller Town Center and committed to helping every patient feel confident about their care—and their smile.
