POM Dental Hygiene Studio in Encinitas, Calif.
For Patients
Welcome and thank you for choosing POM Dental Hygiene Studio. We’re looking forward to meeting you. This page walks you through what to expect, what to bring, and how to prepare for your first visit.
Your First Cleaning
Your first visit to POM will include your new patient professional cleaning. This visit will help establish the baseline for your oral health.
Your first visit will include:
- Dental x-rays and intra-oral photos (minimal, only as needed)
- Radiology report with any findings, reviewed by Dr. Montgomery
- Referrals to trusted specialists if additional care is recommended
- Oral cancer screening
- Periodontal screening
- Professional cleaning with Guided Biofilm Therapy
- Fluoride varnish (optional)
- Medicinal irrigation
- Topical anesthetic, if needed
Before Your Visit
New Patient Paperwork
Before your appointment, you’ll complete:
- General health questionnaire
- Medical history form
- Consent forms
- Notice of Privacy Practices (HIPAA) acknowledgement
- Credit card reservation form
- Cancellation policy acknowledgement
- X-ray protocol acknowledgement
Dental X-rays
To follow clinical guidelines, we require that patients have dental x-rays taken within the past year before completing a cleaning.
- If you have recent x-rays, please provide them prior to your appointment to avoid delays
- If not, we’ll take the necessary minimal x-rays at no additional cost
Standard x-ray protocol includes 4 bitewings and 6 anterior periapical images, taken once per year. Additional periapical images may be taken of teeth with large cavities, large restorations (fillings, onlays, crowns), existing root canals, or any symptomatic teeth.
All x-rays taken in our office are reviewed by Dr. Montgomery, who will provide a radiology report with any findings.
What to Bring
- A payment method (credit card, FSA, or HSA card)
- Recent x-rays, if you have them
- A list of current medications and medical conditions
Insurance and Payment
POM is a fee-for-service practice. We do not bill insurance directly, but we’ll gladly provide a superbill after your visit so PPO members can submit for possible reimbursement. FSA and HSA payments are accepted. Payment is due at the time of service.
Learn More About Insurance and Billing
Cancellation Policy
A $50 cancellation fee applies if an appointment is cancelled less than 24 hours prior, a no-show occurs, or you arrive more than 15 minutes past your appointment time. We value your time and ask that you value ours.
Referrals
POM focuses exclusively on cleanings and preventive care. If your visit reveals the need for additional treatment, we maintain a trusted referral network including:
- General dentists
- Periodontists
- Endodontists
- Orthodontists
- Oral surgeons
You’ll always receive a signed radiology report and clear next steps if a referral is recommended.