New patient exam in Upminster: What to expect at your first dental appointment

September 26, 2025

At Church View Dental, we are proud to provide both NHS dentistry and private care for patients of all ages. For over 100 years, families in Upminster and the surrounding local community - including Hornchurch, Romford, Brentwood, Elm Park, Cranham, Harold Wood, Gidea Park and Rainham - have trusted us to look after their smiles.

Your first dental visit is an important step. It’s designed to give you and your dentist a complete picture of your oral health, identify any issues early, and help us create a personalised plan, including any dental treatments, to keep your gums and smile healthy. It's also a great time to discuss any goals you have, such as straightening, whitening, or even replacing missing teeth with dental implants.

Let's dive in - so that you know exactly what to expect, from the moment you step through the doors of your dental practice.

photo of a young woman smiling during her first dental consultation at a dentist in Upminster, Essex.
Your first consultation at Church View Dental is the perfect time to discuss your oral health, treatment options and smile goals.

What is an 'initial consultation' at the dentist?

Your initial consultation is a detailed dental check-up carried out when you first join our dental practice. It’s more in-depth than a routine check-up because it allows our expert team to get to know you, your dental history, your goals for any future dental treatment to enhance your smile, and your overall oral health needs.

During your first appointment, our expert dentists in Upminster will:

  • Review your medical and dental history
  • Carry out a full inspection of your teeth, gums and soft tissues
  • Check your bite and jaw function
  • Screen for early signs of oral cancer
  • Take X-rays if needed to see below the surface
  • Discuss treatment options, lifestyle habits and any concerns you may have

This thorough procedure ensures that every patient - whether NHS or private - receives expert, professional care.

What does the initial dental check-up cover?

Your first dental visit covers much more than just looking at your teeth. We take the time to check every part of your oral health.

  • Gum health: spotting signs of gum disease early can safeguard against long-term problems
  • Tooth condition: identifying cavities, cracks, worn fillings, or gaps
  • Preventive support: advice on cleaning, brushing, flossing and fluoride treatments
  • Oral cancer screening: a vital inspection for your safety
  • Hygiene services: many patients choose to book a hygiene visit at the same time for a professional clean, scale and polish

This complete overview allows us to recommend the best next steps, whether that’s simple continued care advice, a filling, a crown or bridge, or even cosmetic dentistry treatments to enhance your smile and achieve your goals.

photo of a child having a dental check-up with a parent, representing NHS family dentistry in Upminster, Essex.
We welcome patients of all ages - from children attending their first check-up to adults needing ongoing care.

Flexible dental care: NHS and private options in Upminster, Essex

At Church View Dental, we’re proud to provide both NHS and private dental treatments.

  • NHS dentistry in Upminster - covers clinically necessary treatment such as check-ups, fillings, extractions and dentures. It’s ideal for those who want essential care provided cost-effectively.
  • Free NHS children's dentistry in Upminster - NHS dental care is free for children under 18, making it simple for families in Upminster, Hornchurch and beyond to keep little smiles healthy.
  • Private dentistry in Upminster - offers more treatment choice and appointment flexibility. Private treatments include teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, composite bonding, clear aligners, dental implants, orthodontics and facial aesthetics. You’ll also benefit from longer appointment times, a wider choice of materials, sedation services, and innovative treatments delivered by our experienced team.

Whether you join us as an NHS or private patient, you’ll receive the same high-quality care from a dedicated team that always goes the extra mile.

Why choose Church View Dental as your family dentist?

Choosing the right practice is about more than just booking a check-up. Patients across Essex choose our Upminster dental practice because:

  • We’ve been trusted for over 100 years to care for the Upminster community and protect the health of their smiles
  • We provide both NHS and private dentistry - all under one roof
  • We support the whole family - from a child’s first tooth to advanced treatments for adults
  • We offer a complete range of services, from general dentistry, orthodontics like Invisalign, and preventive support to cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, and specialist treatments, all delivered by our experienced general and cosmetic dentists to help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.
  • Our caring team welcomes nervous individuals - including children - and can provide sedation as needed, to reduce discomfort and help you feel comfortable
  • Our modern, welcoming environment makes every visit pleasant and stress-free
photo of a woman smiling with a mirror after cosmetic dental treatment options such as veneers, crowns, bridges or dental implants in Upminster.
Cosmetic and restorative dentistry in Upminster - from veneers and crowns to bridges and dental implants, we can help you achieve a confident, healthy smile.

Next steps after your first consultation

After your initial dental check-up, we’ll put together a personalised treatment plan. This may include:

  • Preventive treatments such as fluoride varnish, fissure sealants or hygiene visits
  • Restorative options such as crowns, bridges or root canal treatment
  • Dental implants to replace missing teeth such as All-on-4 same day teeth, zygomatic implants, bone & sinus grafts, implanted dentures or single tooth implants
  • Cosmetic dental treatments including teeth whitening, veneers or composite bonding
  • Orthodontics, from Invisalign to lingual braces and traditional braces, to improve your bite and smile alignment
  • Emergency dental care if you face unexpected discomfort, dental pain or dental trauma

We also offer a range of facial rejuvenation treatments under the same roof - such as anti-wrinkle injections, Profhilo, dermal fillers and micro-needling - ideal if you’d like to refresh your appearance further and complement your smile.

Our aim is to provide professional assistance and support that helps you feel confident about your oral health, whatever your needs.

Looking for a fresh new approach to dental health in Upminster?

Your first dental visit is the best way to start your journey with us at Church View Dental. Whether you’re searching for an NHS dentist near you or a private practice in Essex, our helpful, friendly team is here to assist you with modern dentistry, innovative treatments and a tradition of trust and expertise that has served generations.

Contact us to book your new patient consultation today and take the first step towards a healthier, confident smile.

📍 Located in Upminster and welcoming patients from Hornchurch, Romford, Brentwood, Elm Park, Harold Wood, Cranham, Gidea Park and Rainham.

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Frequently asked questions

What happens at a first dental visit?

Your initial consultation includes a full review of your medical and dental history, a detailed inspection of your mouth and gums, oral cancer screening, X-rays if needed, and advice on a range of treatment options and preventive support.

Do you accept new NHS patients from Upminster, Hornchurch, and across Essex?

Yes, we are proud to accept patients looking for NHS dental services, as well as private treatment. Availability can vary, so please contact our team to check current NHS registration.

What does a dental check-up include?

A check-up includes a full oral assessment, gum health check, oral cancer screening, and advice on looking after the health of your smile. X-rays may also be taken. We’ll also cover preventive treatment options along with your cosmetic goals, if needed.

Are dental check-ups the same for adults and children?

The basics are indeed the same - both adults and children receive a full oral health check. Children’s visits may also include preventive care such as fluoride varnish and sealants - along with orthodontic monitoring to support developing teeth and ensure everything is developing as it should.

What’s the difference between NHS and private dentistry?

NHS dentistry covers essential procedures such as check-ups and necessary extractions. Private dentistry offers a wider range of treatment options, including cosmetic dentistry delivered by expert cosmetic dentists, orthodontics, dental implants and facial aesthetics, as well as longer appointment times and the latest treatments.

How long does a dental check-up take?

Routine checks usually last around 20 minutes. The first time you visit us, the appointment may take longer, as it includes a full discussion and time to build a personalised approach to your care and the services you may benefit from.

How often should I have a routine dental check-up?

Most individuals benefit from a routine dental check-up every 6 months. Some may need more frequent visits depending on their oral health. Your dentist will discuss the best schedule for you.

Do you treat nervous patients or offer sedation?

Yes, absolutely. Many people feel nervous about visiting the dentist. Our team offers a gentle approach, a friendly, relaxed environment, and sedation for those who need extra reassurance. Contact our team today to find out how we can support you.

Which areas do you serve near Upminster, and do you have a Cranham dental centre?

We are based in Upminster, and whilst we don't have a physical practice in Cranham, we regularly see individuals from Hornchurch, Romford, Brentwood, Elm Park, Gidea Park, Harold Wood, Rainham, Cranham and across Essex.

Call us

01708 220563

Find us

34a Station Rd,
Upminster,
RM14 2TR

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