New patients are always welcome

Your first visit

Plan for about an hour. We'll update your records, do a comprehensive exam, take any X-rays we need, and talk through what we see. If you'd like a cleaning that same day, let us know when you book — we'll reserve the time.

What to bring

• A photo ID
• Your insurance card (if applicable)
• A list of any medications you're taking
• Any questions, concerns, or old records from a previous dentist

Insurance and payment

We accept most major dental insurance plans and will file claims on your behalf. If you don't have insurance, ask about the Virginia Dental Club — our in-house membership plan designed for uninsured patients. We also offer financing through third-party providers for larger treatment plans.

Patient registration

Complete your registration through our secure patient portal before your visit. It takes just a few minutes and helps us prepare for your appointment.

Nervous about coming in?

Say so when you call. We offer sedation options, extra time, and a team that will not rush you or make you feel bad for any of it.

What happens during your first exam

Knowing the steps ahead of time can make the whole experience feel more manageable. Here's what a typical first visit looks like at Shenandoah Dental Center:

Check-in and paperwork

When you arrive, our front desk team will greet you, confirm your information, and collect any forms you haven't already completed online. If you filled out your patient registration ahead of time, this step takes just a minute or two.

X-rays

We'll take a set of digital X-rays so Dr. Nair can see what's happening beneath the surface — things like bone health, hidden decay, and the position of any wisdom teeth. Digital X-rays use significantly less radiation than traditional film and produce images instantly.

Comprehensive exam

Dr. Nair will examine your teeth, gums, jaw, and soft tissues. This includes checking for cavities, gum disease, bite alignment, signs of grinding, and an oral cancer screening. You'll have time to ask questions throughout — nothing will happen without a conversation first.

Cleaning (if scheduled)

If your gums are healthy and we've reserved the time, a hygienist will perform a professional cleaning during the same visit. Let us know when you book so we can plan accordingly. If we find signs of gum disease, we may recommend a different type of cleaning and schedule it for a follow-up.

Treatment plan discussion

Before you leave, Dr. Nair will walk you through everything we found — in plain language, not dental jargon. If you need treatment, we'll explain your options, the timeline, and the cost. There's no pressure to decide on the spot. You're always welcome to take the information home and think it over.

Transferring records from another dentist

If you're coming from another dental office, it helps to have your previous records sent to us before your first appointment. This typically includes recent X-rays, a treatment history, and any periodontal charting. Here's how to make it happen:

• Call your previous dentist's office and ask them to send your records to Shenandoah Dental Center at 81 Franklin St, Weyers Cave, VA 24486
• Most offices can fax or email records directly — just provide them with our phone number at 540-902-0205
• If you have copies of recent X-rays on a disc or USB drive, you're welcome to bring those to your appointment

Don't worry if you can't get your old records in time. We can always take new X-rays and start fresh. Having prior records simply helps Dr. Nair see the full picture sooner.

Parking and accessibility

Our office at 81 Franklin St offers ample free parking right outside the front entrance. The building is ground-floor accessible — no stairs, no elevators, no long hallways. If you use a wheelchair, walker, or have limited mobility, you'll find our entrance and treatment rooms easy to navigate.

Ready to schedule your first visit? Book online or call us at 540-902-0205. We look forward to meeting you.