What Happens at Your First Visit
Starting periodontal treatment can feel like a lot to navigate. Here’s what to bring and what to expect so your first appointment goes smoothly.
Request an AppointmentWhat to Bring to Your First Appointment
Please help us prepare for your visit by bringing the following:
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- Your referral slip and any X-rays from your referring dentist
- A list of medications you’re currently taking (or complete your patient registration and medical history form ahead of time using the links below)
- Your dental insurance card and any related forms, if applicable
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A Few Important Notes
All patients under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at their consultation appointment. Please also let our office know ahead of time if you have a medical condition or concern relevant to surgery, such as artificial heart valves or joints, heart murmurs requiring pre-medication, severe diabetes, or hypertension.
What Your First Exam Includes
Your first visit includes an in-depth review of your medical and dental history, along with a thorough exam that measures bone loss, checks for loose teeth, evaluates your bite, screens for oral cancer, and looks for other signs of periodontal disease or TMJ issues. This gives Dr. Zakaria a complete picture before recommending any treatment.
Browse Dr. Zakaria’s before-and-after book to see the kind of results achievable with his minimally invasive gum grafting technique.
Patient Forms
Save time at your appointment by completing these forms in advance:
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- Patient Medical History Form
- Financial Policy Form
- Notice of Privacy Practices
- Acknowledgement of Receipt of Notice of Privacy Practices
- Consent for Use & Disclosure of Health Information
- Consent to Give Permission for Dental Health Information
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For more on what to expect financially, visit our Payment Options page, or review our FAQ page for answers to other common questions.
Request an Appointment
The first step toward a healthier, more confident smile is scheduling an appointment. Call our office or complete the appointment request form below, and our scheduling coordinator will reach out to confirm your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral to schedule my first appointment?
No, though if you were referred by your dentist, please bring their referral slip and any X-rays they’ve provided.
Can I fill out patient forms before my appointment?
Yes, our patient forms are available to download and complete ahead of time, which helps your first visit go faster.
What happens during my first exam?
Your first visit includes a full medical and dental history review and a thorough exam checking for bone loss, loose teeth, bite issues, oral cancer screening, and other signs of periodontal disease.
Can a minor be seen at your office?
Yes, but patients under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at their consultation appointment.
Should I tell you about my medical history before surgery?
Yes, please let our office know about any relevant medical conditions, such as artificial heart valves or joints, heart murmurs, severe diabetes, or hypertension, before any surgical procedure.
Do you accept dental insurance?
Many dental insurance plans include coverage for periodontal care. Bring your insurance card and any related forms to your appointment.
How do I schedule my first appointment?
You can call our office directly at (734) 542-9904 or complete the appointment request form on this page, and our scheduling coordinator will confirm your visit.

