New Dental Patient Information Tacoma
We Believe Preparation Is Key
Welcome to Commencement Bay Dentistry! Our Tacoma dental team is here to ensure you and your family are fully prepared for your first visit to our office. Below, you will find helpful information that will give you better insight into what you can expect, what we require, and how we can assist when it comes to the financial components of oral healthcare. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a member of our team.
Your First Visit
The focus of your initial visit is for us to learn more about you. Apart from taking digital X-rays of your mouth to ensure we have the most updated records, we’ll also discuss your smile goals, oral health concerns, and any ways we can ensure a positive experience while at our office. During your initial comprehensive exam, the first hour is spent with Dr. Miller and her dental assistant collecting records and taking any necessary radiographs. Dr. Miller will check for cavities or signs of gum disease. If additional treatment is recommended, Dr. Miller will go over the details with you so that you can determine how you want to move forward.
During the second hour of your first visit, a dental hygienist will then arrive to check your soft oral tissues and do a full periodontal charting that consists of gum measurements, recording gum pocketing, recession, and mobility, and performing a dental prophylaxis (cleaning) to clear away harmful plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums.
Patient Forms
Before your initial appointment, download and complete these forms at home. Bring them to your first visit, and we’ll expedite registration for you. If you prefer, arrive about 15 minutes early to your scheduled appointment, and you can complete the forms in our office.
- Health History
- HIPPA Sign Off
- Privacy Policies
- Release Records From CBD
- Release Records to CBD
- Financial Policy
Dental Insurance
Dental insurance can be confusing, but we'll make it easy for you. If you have dental insurance, we will tell you your estimated portion before we treat you. Don't worry about surprises! Simply bring your card or claim into our office or call to speak with our friendly insurance coordinator. We'll be happy to tell you what your insurance will cover and file your claim for you. Please be prepared to pay your portion at your visit unless prior payment arrangements have been agreed upon. Dr. Miller is pleased to be in-network with Washington Delta, Delta Dental, and Regence.
CareCredit Financing
When the out-of-pocket expenses you are expected to pay are still too high, or your dental insurance plan does not cover the type of treatment you need, you can apply for CareCredit. As a third-party financing company that offers low-to-no-interest payment plans, you can choose one that works best for your budget and schedule. Just ask a member of our team how you can get started.
Pay Online
Instead of calling to pay your bill over the phone or drive to our office, we want to make things more convenient for you and your family. This is why we offer Medipay. This secure online system makes it easy to pay your balance online. In just a few simple steps, you will make your payment and be back on your way to other, more important daily duties.
Post-Operative Instructions
Dr. Miller cares about patients’ long-term oral health, which is why she has compiled various post-operative instructions in one convenient location. After any procedure or invasive form of treatment, you can expect there to be guidelines you’ll need to follow to avoid complications. By clicking the link below, you can review the necessary details related to your dental treatment so that you recover quickly and properly.