New Patients

Patient Forms, Map and Directions to Alameda Office

Your first visit to Terecita Dean DDS involves a few special steps so that we can get to know you. To understand what to expect, please read through this page. You'll find all the practical information you need, such as a map and directions to our office, practice hours, payment policies and more. There's also background information about our committed staff and our first visit procedures. You can also save some time by printing out and completing the patient forms in advance of your appointment.

Go to Maps and Driving Directions

Mission Statement
Our practice is working together to realize a shared vision of uncompromising excellence in dentistry.

To fulfill this mission, we are committed to:

• Listening to those we are privileged to serve.
• Earn the trust and respect of patients, profession and community.
• Exceed your expectations.
• Ensure a creative, challenging and compassionate professional environment.
• Strive for continuous improvement at all levels.

Patient Forms
Please print and fill out these forms so we can expedite your first visit:

Coming Soon

In order to view or print these forms you will need Adobe Acrobat Reader installed. Click here to download it.

What To Expect
Being well-prepared for your appointment will ensure that the doctor has all of the needed information to provide the best possible care for you. It also will help relieve any unnecessary anxiety you may be feeling. Educate yourself on your symptoms by reviewing the content on this Web site. Also, take some time to review our staff page and familiarize yourself with the doctors. We look forward to your first visit.

What Happens on My First Visit?
Standard procedures, state law, and common sense dictate that a visual exam of a new patient and current x-rays occur before a cleaning is performed. We try to get to know you and to become familiar with your dental past experience, and your present needs and desires. We discuss the cause of gum disease and dental decay. We also discuss preventive measures that can improve your dental health. We complete an dental examination that includes soft tissue exam (oral cancer screening), look at the teeth noting anything wrong with existing restorations or the teeth themselves, evaluate the TMJ, gum tissues and x-rays when needed. We put this information together and decide on needed treatment. (See Hygiene examination).

What is the cost of my First Visit?
We take great pride in providing quality care and service at fees around, if not below, the city average. Our fees are registered with the State of California and are within the "usual and customary" fee structure recognized by most insurance companies.

Why do I need X-Rays?
What a visual exam reveals is only about 20% of what is really happening in the areas of potential infection, cavities, bone loss, etc. An x-ray provides a clear picture for a dentist to accurately provide the necessary treatment. We use the lowest dosage of radiation possible when taking an x-ray. We use special low dosage digital x-ray equipment and high speed film. This is the safest method available within the limits of the dental profession. This gives us a visual picture within seconds of taking the x-ray.

By Whitening my teeth am I more likely to get more cavities?
No! Dentist-supervised home bleaching kits have been around since the mid-80's. There have been numerous studies all resulting in no side-effects. The worst that can happen is an increased sensitivity to cold, which goes away in a day or two after you stop the whitening process. See Whitening Procedure for more information.

How long does it take for whitening to work?
Generally, you will begin to see results in just a few days. The entire process is usually about 2 to 3 weeks with daily application. Depending how stained your teeth are to begin with, the process could take several weeks and you still may never reach the desired results. See Whitening Procedure for more information.

What kind of toothbrush should I use?
The quality (time and technique) of your brushing is more important than the type of toothbrush you use; however, most dentists do recommend a soft bristle toothbrush with a small head. The proper technique is turning the brush so the bristles make a "C" against the teeth. Brush slowly for a minimum 2 minutes on the upper teeth and 2 minutes on the lower teeth. Brush in every direction: in a circle, up and down, and side-to-side. Brush every tooth in every direction. Don't apply too much pressure. Let the bristles do the work and brush after every meal! Electric tooth brushes are excellent and we will discuss the various options.

Why floss?
Brushing alone, no matter how good of job you do, cannot reach all of the areas between the teeth or just under the gum line. Flossing removes the soft deposits of plaque and food from between the teeth and decreases irritation of your gums due to bacterial build-up. A good rule of thumb is to only floss the teeth you want to keep!

Can I make payments over time?
We expect full payment and/or your insurance co-payment at the time of service. We accept most major credit cards. We will be happy to assist you in billing your insurance company. In situations where insurance does not cover the procedure we do offer an interest free monthly payment program for qualified applicants. Applications are available at our front desk.

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