Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! Gentle Dental locations are always accepting new patients and are often able to schedule appointments the same day. Your first visit will usually include an appointment with the doctor for a comprehensive exam and all necessary x-rays. During this appointment you can speak with the Dentist about any specific trouble areas or concerns. Emergency visits are seen same day.

In the past, you may have been able to schedule your first appointment with a new dentist as a cleaning. However current standards in the dental field strongly recommend that a patient’s first visit with a new dentist include a comprehensive oral examination and any necessary x-rays. This ensures that the dentist has a full and clear picture of your mouth and oral health before proceeding with care. If a cleaning is the proper next course of treatment, appointments are often available the same day.

Visit the page of the Gentle Dental location you’re visiting. Under “more information” you’ll find a link to complete New Patient Forms online

New patients should arrive 10-15 minutes early to their first appointment. This gives time to review any insurance benefits, practice policies, and complete necessary paperwork.

Please plan at least 1 hour for your first visit. The length may vary depending on your specific needs.

We understand that going to the dentist can be a challenging task for some people. Our offices are designed with patients in mind with cool and calming blues and grays to put you at ease. Our front desk and clinical staff are trained to help anxious patients feel more comfortable. Before your first visit, plan a visit to come by, tour the office, and meet the staff. We're happy to accommodate you. During treatment, we recommend anxious patients wear earbuds with music, an audiobook, or a podcast to tune out external noise. For very anxious patients, speak with your dentist directly before treatment for additional options.

If you require premedication, request a prescription from your healthcare provider before your appointment. For specific questions about premedication, please call our office.

New patients should arrive with identification, insurance card if applicable, and any forms that may be relevant including health history or medication list.

Yes! All Gentle Dental locations are multispecialty, including endodontics. Our specialists are board-certified experts in their fields. Consultations are always free for general and specialty dental services.

As a new patient, you will first see the dentist for a comprehensive exam. During your exam, your dentist will review your dental x-rays and complete an oral cancer screening which includes an examination of your jaw, neck, tongue and inside of your mouth. At your first visit, you may not receive a cleaning. A cleaning may be completed after the doctor ensures it is the appropriate treatment for your specific oral health. There are certain conditions that determine that a cleaning is not the first best course of treatment. For more information about your first vist please read "What To Expect At Your First Visit."

All Gentle Dental locations are open on Saturdays and our Cambridge and Somerville locations are also open on Sundays!

Each of our offices makes every accomodation possible for patients with disabilities. Please call the specific office you would like to visit for specific accessbility information.

A parent or legal guardian must accompany anyone under the age of 18 during an office visit.

Yes! All Gentle Dental practices provides all phases of dental care from general treatment to specialty services. Consultations are always free.

Absolutely. Gentle Dental practices provide all phases of dental care from general services to specialized care. Schedule a free consultation with a dentist to create a treatmen plan unique to your smile. We have many options including orthodontics, teeth whitening, bonding, veneers, crowns, and more.