Patient guide
Coming Back to the Dentist
Coming back to the dentist starts with a full exam that gives Dr. Jaime Lee a complete picture of your teeth and gums. She explains what she finds, recommends the right type of cleaning, and helps you set clear priorities for any other care. You can start with whatever concern matters most to you.
What happens at your first visit back?
Your visit begins with a review of your health history and a full exam of your teeth, gums, bite, and existing dental work. Dr. Lee may recommend X-rays to assess the tooth structure and bone below the surface, and she performs an oral cancer screening as part of the exam. She then sits down with you to review her findings before any treatment is discussed.
Which type of cleaning will you need?
Dr. Lee recommends the cleaning that fits the condition of your gums. A routine cleaning removes plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) from the tooth surfaces above the gumline, while a deep cleaning also clears buildup from the root surfaces below it. When a deep cleaning fits, it is scheduled as its own appointment, and Dr. Lee explains why before it begins.
What can you expect during the cleaning?
The cleaning removes buildup from your teeth and along the gumline so your gums can return to health. Gums with buildup along the gumline can feel tender or bleed slightly during the cleaning, and this usually settles as they heal. Our team works at a comfortable pace and checks in with you throughout.
How does Dr. Lee set priorities?
When your mouth needs more than one treatment, Dr. Lee identifies which care protects your oral health first and which can be scheduled later. She explains the purpose and order of each step, so the plan is clear before it begins. Treatment can then be scheduled at a pace that fits your schedule and budget.
Can a specific concern be evaluated first?
Yes. If a tooth is sensitive, chipped, or uncomfortable, mention it when you call, and Dr. Lee will evaluate that area at your first visit. She then plans your routine care around the treatment that tooth needs.
How do insurance and payment work?
Smile Art accepts all PPO dental plans, and our team confirms your benefits ahead of time. Our team also reviews your expected coverage for any recommended treatment with you before it begins. For out-of-pocket expenses, financing is available through CareCredit, Cherry, and LendingClub.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the first visit take?
Plan for about 60 to 90 minutes. The exam, any X-rays, and the conversation with Dr. Lee give her a complete record of your oral health.
Will I need X-rays?
Dr. Lee recommends X-rays when she needs to assess areas an exam cannot show, such as the spaces between teeth and the bone around the roots. If you have recent X-rays from another dentist, bring them or ask that office to send copies.
Can my treatment be done in fewer visits?
Dr. Lee plans treatment in the order that protects your oral health, and some care can be combined into the same appointment. She explains your scheduling options when she reviews your treatment plan.
What if I feel anxious?
Tell our team when you schedule, and Dr. Lee will explain each step before it begins. Dr. Lee is trained in light to moderate conscious sedation and is current on her continuing education. For treatment needing deeper or IV sedation, she works with an anesthesiologist.
Do I need to fill out forms?
Yes. New-patient forms are completed at the office, so please arrive about 15 minutes before your appointment.
Related pages
Where is our Seattle dental office?
Smile Art is at 901 Boren Ave, Suite 1030, Seattle, WA 98104. We welcome new patients from Seattle and the surrounding neighborhoods.
Seattle, WA 98104
HoursMonday–Thursday, 8:00am–4:00pm
Phone(206) 325-7200
The Cabrini Medical Tower garage entrance is at 1010 Marion St. The building entrance is on Boren Ave; Dr. Lee is in Suite 1030. Parking for a Smile Art visit does not require validation. Directions to the garage. Check posted rates when you park.