Patient Information
What to Expect at Your First Oral Surgery Visit
New patients are always welcome at Merrifield Oral Surgery, and we accept most dental insurance plans to help make care more affordable. If you're wondering what to expect at your first oral surgery visit, our Falls Church team wants you to feel calm and informed from the moment you arrive. We keep first appointments unhurried, so you have time to ask questions and understand your options before anything is decided.
Call (703) 639-0027Before Your Appointment: What to Bring and Prepare
A little preparation goes a long way toward a smooth first visit. Please bring a photo ID, your insurance card, and any referral paperwork your dentist gave you. It also helps to have a list of current medications and a short medical history ready, especially if you're being seen for a surgical concern like wisdom teeth or an implant consultation.
To save time in the waiting room, you can complete your patient registration forms online before you arrive. Filling these out ahead of time means less paperwork at check-in and more time to talk with your doctor about your care.
What to Expect During Your First Oral Surgery Visit
When you arrive, our front desk team will check you in and confirm your insurance and paperwork. From there, one of our doctors will review your medical and dental history with you in a calm, conversational way, not a rushed checklist.
Depending on why you're being seen, we may take 3D imaging to get a clear picture of your teeth, jaw, and surrounding bone. This helps our surgeons plan precisely, whether you're here for a wisdom tooth evaluation, an implant consultation, or another concern. Your doctor will then walk you through what they see, explain your options in plain language, and answer every question before discussing next steps. If surgery is recommended, we'll also talk through recovery expectations, and you can review our post-op instructions anytime so you know what healing typically looks like.
New Patient Forms and Paperwork
Our new patient forms for oral surgery cover your medical history, current medications, and insurance details. You're welcome to fill these out online before your visit or complete them in our office if you'd rather do it in person. Either way, our staff is happy to help if you have questions while filling them out.
New Patient Forms (opens in a new tab)Insurance, Payment, and Registration
We know insurance can feel confusing, especially for surgical care. Our team will help verify your benefits and explain your coverage in plain terms, so there are no surprises. You can learn more about accepted plans and payment options on our insurance and financing page.
If you're not sure your question is answered here, our FAQ page covers other common patient questions about visiting our office.
Questions
Frequently Asked Questions About Your First Visit
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Bring a photo ID, your insurance card, and any referral paperwork from your dentist. It also helps to bring a list of current medications and a brief medical history if you have one. If you completed your new patient forms online ahead of time, bring a printed copy or your confirmation.
How long does the first visit take?
We allow ample time for your first visit so nothing feels rushed. This gives our doctors time to review your history, take any needed images, and walk through your treatment options with you. Some cases, like a same-day consultation and imaging, may take a bit longer.
What happens if I put off my consultation?
Waiting can sometimes allow a dental issue, like an impacted tooth or infection, to become more uncomfortable or complex to treat. It's usually easier and more comfortable to address concerns early. If you have any pain or swelling now, call our office so we can find you a timely appointment.
Ready to Meet Our Falls Church Surgical Team?
Your first visit is simply a chance to get answers and feel comfortable with your options, no pressure and no rushing. Our board-certified surgeons are ready to listen, explain, and put you at ease from your very first appointment.