New Patient Information | Welcome to East Wind Dental Care

This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know as a new patient, including what to expect during your first visit, required forms, payment options, office policies, and information about our team and technology. We’ve designed our practice to make quality dental care accessible, convenient, and stress-free for patients of all ages.

What to Expect at Your First Visit

Your initial appointment at East Wind Dental Care is designed to be thorough yet comfortable, giving us a complete understanding of your oral health while allowing you to get to know our team and ask questions about your dental needs.

Comprehensive Dental Examination

Your first visit begins with a comprehensive dental examination conducted by Dr. Ostovar. This detailed evaluation goes far beyond a quick look at your teeth – it’s a complete assessment of your oral health, facial structures, and bite relationship. Dr. O will carefully examine each tooth for signs of decay, cracks, or other problems, and evaluate your gums for any indication of periodontal disease.

The examination includes an oral cancer screening, an essential preventive measure that checks the soft tissues of your mouth, tongue, throat, and neck for any abnormalities. Early detection of oral cancer dramatically improves treatment outcomes, making this screening a vital part of your care.

Dr. Ostovar will also evaluate your bite alignment, jaw joints (TMJ), and existing dental work including fillings, crowns, and other restorations. This comprehensive approach ensures we identify all issues, prioritize treatments, and develop a personalized care plan tailored to your specific needs and goals.

Digital X-Rays and Diagnostic Imaging

During your first visit, we’ll take digital X-rays to see what’s happening beneath the surface. Our advanced digital X-ray technology provides detailed images while emitting up to 90% less radiation than traditional film X-rays. These diagnostic images reveal cavities between teeth, bone levels around teeth, impacted wisdom teeth, infections, and other conditions not visible during a clinical examination.

Depending on your needs, we may take bitewing X-rays to check for cavities between teeth, periapical X-rays to view entire teeth including roots, or a panoramic X-ray that shows your complete jaw, teeth, sinuses, and surrounding structures in a single image. Our advanced technology provides the information needed for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning.

Professional Dental Cleaning

If your schedule allows and your oral health permits, we’ll typically include a professional dental cleaning during your first visit. Our skilled hygienists use specialized instruments to remove plaque and tartar buildup that brushing and flossing at home cannot eliminate. This thorough cleaning helps prevent cavities and gum disease while leaving your teeth feeling smooth and fresh.

The cleaning includes scaling to remove hardened deposits, polishing to smooth tooth surfaces and remove surface stains, and flossing to clean between teeth. We’ll also provide personalized oral hygiene instruction, demonstrating proper brushing and flossing techniques and recommending products suited to your specific needs.

If you have significant tartar buildup or signs of gum disease, we may recommend scheduling a separate appointment for a deeper cleaning called scaling and root planing. This allows adequate time for thorough treatment and ensures your comfort.

Treatment Plan Discussion

After completing your examination, X-rays, and cleaning, Dr. Ostovar will discuss his findings with you in detail. He’ll explain any problems discovered, show you the X-ray images, and answer all your questions. Understanding your oral health empowers you to make informed decisions about your care.

If treatment is needed, we’ll develop a comprehensive, prioritized treatment plan. Dr. O will explain each recommended procedure, why it’s necessary, and what to expect during treatment. We’ll provide clear cost estimates and discuss payment options, ensuring you understand the financial aspects before moving forward.

For patients with complex needs requiring extensive treatment, we’ll prioritize procedures and create a phased treatment plan that addresses urgent issues first while working toward your long-term oral health goals at a comfortable pace.

First Visit Timeline

Plan for your first appointment to take approximately 60-90 minutes. This allows adequate time for paperwork, examination, X-rays, cleaning, and consultation without feeling rushed. We respect your time and run an efficient schedule while ensuring you receive thorough, unhurried care.

Please arrive 15 minutes early for your first visit to complete any remaining paperwork and ensure your appointment starts on time. Bring your insurance card, a list of current medications, and any dental records or X-rays from previous dentists if available.

Required Patient Forms

Completing necessary paperwork before your appointment saves time and allows us to focus on your dental care during your visit. We offer several convenient options for handling your new patient forms.

Online Forms

The easiest way to complete your new patient paperwork is through our online patient portal. You’ll receive a secure link via email where you can fill out forms from the comfort of your home using your computer, tablet, or smartphone. This option is fast, convenient, and ensures your information is legible and complete.

Online forms include your medical and dental history, current medications and allergies, insurance information, contact details, and consent forms. The secure system protects your privacy while making the intake process simple and efficient.

Forms to Complete

New patients need to complete several forms to ensure we have the information necessary to provide safe, effective care:

Patient Registration Form: Provides your contact information, emergency contact, dental insurance details, and authorization for treatment and communication.

Medical History Form: Details your current health conditions, past surgeries, medications, allergies, and other medical information that may affect your dental treatment. Complete accuracy is essential for your safety.

Dental History Form: Asks about your previous dental experiences, current concerns, and oral health habits. This helps us understand your needs and any anxieties about dental care.

HIPAA Privacy Notice: Explains how we protect your personal health information and your rights regarding medical records.

Financial Policy Agreement: Outlines our payment policies, insurance procedures, and financial arrangements.

Consent for Treatment: Provides authorization for examination, X-rays, and treatment.

What to Bring to Your First Appointment

Have dental anxiety or special needs? Please call us ahead of time at (503) 614-0198 so we can prepare to make your visit as comfortable as possible.

Insurance and Payment Options

We believe everyone deserves access to quality dental care, which is why we offer multiple payment options to fit different budgets and situations.

Dental Insurance

East Wind Dental Care works with most major dental insurance providers. We’re in-network with many plans and also welcome out-of-network insurance. Our knowledgeable team will verify your benefits before your appointment, explain your coverage, and file claims on your behalf to maximize your benefits.

Dental insurance typically covers preventive care like exams and cleanings at 100%, basic procedures like fillings at 70-80%, and major procedures like crowns and root canals at 50%. However, coverage varies significantly by plan. We’ll provide a clear breakdown of what your insurance will pay and what your out-of-pocket cost will be before beginning any treatment.

Please bring your insurance card to your first appointment. We’ll make copies for our records and verify your benefits. Remember that you are ultimately responsible for any charges not covered by your insurance, including deductibles, copays, and amounts exceeding annual maximums.

Payment Methods

We accept multiple payment methods for your convenience:

• Cash and checks
• All major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express)
• Debit cards
• CareCredit healthcare financing
• LendingClub patient financing
• In-house dental membership plan

Payment is expected at the time of service for patients without insurance or for amounts not covered by insurance. We’ll provide cost estimates before treatment so you know what to expect.

Healthcare Financing

For patients who need help managing the cost of dental treatment, we offer two excellent financing options that make quality care more affordable.

CareCredit: This healthcare credit card is accepted at our office and thousands of healthcare providers nationwide. CareCredit offers flexible payment plans and promotional financing periods with no interest if paid in full within the promotional period. Applications can be completed online or in our office, with approval decisions typically within minutes.

LendingClub Patient Solutions: This financing option provides loans specifically for healthcare expenses, including dental treatment. LendingClub offers fixed monthly payments, competitive rates, and loan amounts from $1,000 to $40,000, making even extensive dental work affordable.

Both financing options allow you to proceed with needed treatment without delay while spreading payments over time. Our team can help you apply and answer questions about which option best fits your budget.

In-House Membership Plan

Don’t have dental insurance? Our in-house membership plan provides an affordable alternative designed for patients without insurance coverage. Members receive comprehensive preventive care including two exams, two cleanings, all necessary X-rays, and emergency exams, plus 20-30% discounts on all additional treatments.

The membership plan has no waiting periods, no annual maximums, no claim forms, and no coverage denials. You pay a low monthly fee and receive immediate access to care and substantial savings. Many patients find membership costs less than insurance premiums while providing better value.

Contact us at (503) 614-0198 to learn more about membership options and pricing.

Office Policies

Understanding our office policies ensures smooth visits and helps us provide excellent service to all patients.

Office Hours

We’re open Monday through Friday, 8:00am to 5:00pm. Our extended hours accommodate working professionals and families with school-age children. We’re closed on weekends and major holidays.

Appointment Scheduling

We recommend scheduling regular preventive appointments every six months to maintain optimal oral health. After your visit, our front desk team can schedule your next appointment at a convenient time. We also offer reminder calls and texts to help you remember upcoming appointments.

For urgent needs or dental emergencies, call us at (503) 614-0198. We reserve time in our schedule each day for emergency patients and will see you as quickly as possible, often the same day.

Cancellation Policy

We understand that schedules change and appreciate at least 24 hours notice if you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment. This courtesy allows us to offer the time to other patients who need care. Appointments cancelled with less than 24 hours notice or missed appointments may be subject to a cancellation fee.

Late Arrival Policy

Please arrive 15 minutes early for your first appointment to complete any remaining paperwork. For subsequent visits, arriving 5-10 minutes early is appreciated. If you’re running late, please call us. We’ll do our best to accommodate you, but significant delays may require rescheduling to ensure we can provide adequate time for your care and not delay other patients.

Emergency Care

Dental emergencies happen, and we’re here to help. If you experience severe pain, trauma to your teeth or mouth, uncontrolled bleeding, or swelling, call our office immediately at (503) 614-0198. During business hours, we’ll see you as quickly as possible, typically the same day. After hours, our answering service will connect you with Dr. Ostovar or provide guidance on seeking immediate care.

Common dental emergencies include severe toothaches, knocked-out teeth, broken or cracked teeth, lost fillings or crowns, abscesses, and soft tissue injuries. Quick treatment often prevents complications and may save teeth that might otherwise be lost.

Advanced Technology We Use

Modern dental technology enhances diagnosis accuracy, treatment precision, and patient comfort. We invest in advanced equipment to provide you with the best possible care.

Digital X-Rays

Our digital X-ray system provides high-quality images with up to 90% less radiation exposure than traditional film X-rays. Images appear instantly on chairside monitors, allowing Dr. Ostovar to show you exactly what he sees and explain findings in detail. Digital storage makes it easy to compare images over time, tracking changes in your oral health.

Intraoral Cameras

These small cameras capture detailed photos of individual teeth and areas of concern. The magnified images displayed on monitors help you understand your oral health condition and the need for recommended treatments. Seeing the same view your dentist sees helps you make informed decisions about your care.

Digital Impressions

When impressions are needed for crowns, bridges, or other restorations, our digital scanner captures precise 3D models without the discomfort of traditional impression putty. The process is faster, more comfortable, and more accurate, leading to better-fitting restorations.

Laser Dentistry

We use dental lasers for various soft tissue procedures, offering more precise treatment with less discomfort and faster healing compared to traditional methods. Laser procedures often require less anesthesia and cause minimal bleeding.

Learn more about our advanced dental technology and how it benefits your care.

Meet Our Dental Team

Getting to know our team helps you feel comfortable and confident in your care.

Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O)

Dr. Ostovar is committed to providing exceptional, personalized dental care to every patient. His gentle approach, clinical expertise, and dedication to continuing education ensure you receive treatment using the latest techniques and best practices. Dr. O takes time to listen to your concerns, explain procedures thoroughly, and answer all your questions. His patient-centered philosophy creates a comfortable, trusting relationship that makes dental visits stress-free.

Our Dental Hygienists

Our skilled hygienists provide thorough, gentle cleanings and valuable oral health education. They’ll teach you proper brushing and flossing techniques, recommend products suited to your needs, and answer questions about maintaining your oral health between visits.

Our Front Office Team

Our friendly front desk staff handles scheduling, insurance verification, financial arrangements, and answers your questions about appointments and policies. They work to make every aspect of your experience smooth and pleasant.

Our Dental Assistants

Our trained assistants work alongside Dr. Ostovar during procedures, ensuring your comfort and assisting with treatment. They’re compassionate professionals dedicated to making your visit as comfortable as possible.

Virtual Office Tour

While we encourage you to visit our office and see our facility in person, here’s what you can expect when you arrive.

Reception Area

Our welcoming reception area provides a comfortable space to complete paperwork or wait for your appointment. We maintain a clean, modern environment where patients feel at ease.

Treatment Rooms

Our treatment rooms feature comfortable dental chairs, advanced technology including digital X-rays and intraoral cameras, and chairside monitors for viewing images and educational materials. We maintain strict sterilization protocols to ensure your safety.

Sterilization Area

Patient safety is our top priority. We follow CDC guidelines and use hospital-grade sterilization equipment to clean and sterilize all instruments. Disposable items are used whenever possible and discarded after single use.

Frequently Asked Questions for New Patients

How do I schedule my first appointment?

Call our office at (503) 614-0198 during business hours (Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm). Our friendly staff will schedule your appointment at a convenient time and send you links to complete new patient forms online.

What if I have dental anxiety?

Many of our patients experience dental anxiety, and we specialize in making nervous patients comfortable. Let us know about your concerns when you schedule your appointment. We offer sedation dentistry options including nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and oral sedation to help anxious patients relax during treatment.

Do you see children?

Yes! We provide comprehensive pediatric dentistry and welcome children as young as one year old. Our gentle, patient approach helps children develop positive attitudes toward dental care. We recommend bringing children for their first visit by age one or when their first tooth erupts.

Do you offer same-day appointments for emergencies?

Yes, we reserve time in our schedule for dental emergencies and will see you as quickly as possible, typically the same day you call. Contact us immediately at (503) 614-0198 if you have a dental emergency.

What if I haven’t been to a dentist in many years?

You’re not alone, and we’re here to help without judgment. Many patients delay dental care for various reasons. We’ll conduct a thorough examination, develop a treatment plan that addresses your needs, and work at a pace that’s comfortable for you. Our compassionate team specializes in helping patients restore their oral health.

Will my first visit hurt?

The examination and cleaning are typically painless. If we identify problems that require treatment, we’ll discuss pain management options before proceeding. Our goal is to keep you comfortable throughout every procedure.

How long will my first appointment take?

Plan for 60-90 minutes for your initial visit. This includes completing any remaining paperwork, X-rays, examination, cleaning, and consultation about your oral health and any needed treatment.

What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept cash, checks, all major credit cards, CareCredit, and LendingClub financing. We also offer an in-house membership plan for patients without insurance.

Do you file insurance claims?

Yes, we file claims on your behalf and work to maximize your insurance benefits. We’ll verify your coverage before your appointment and provide an estimate of your out-of-pocket costs.

Can my family members all see the same dentist?

Absolutely! We provide family dentistry and welcome patients of all ages, from young children to seniors. Many families appreciate the convenience of everyone seeing the same dental team at the same location.

Your Dental Home in Hillsboro

Choosing East Wind Dental Care means choosing a dental team committed to your long-term oral health, comfort, and satisfaction. We view our relationship with patients as a partnership, working together toward the shared goal of maintaining a healthy, beautiful smile for life.

Whether you need routine preventive care, restorative treatments, cosmetic dentistry, or comprehensive smile rehabilitation, our experienced team provides personalized care using advanced technology in a comfortable, welcoming environment.

Schedule Your New Patient Appointment Today

Ready to experience the East Wind Dental Care difference? Contact us at (503) 614-0198 to schedule your new patient appointment. Our knowledgeable staff will answer your questions, verify your insurance if applicable, and find a convenient appointment time.

We look forward to welcoming you to our dental family and helping you achieve optimal oral health. Your smile is our priority, and we’re committed to making your experience exceptional from your very first visit.

Don’t wait to address your dental health needs. Call (503) 614-0198 today to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile.

Ready to Get Started?

Schedule your appointment today at East Wind Dental Care in Hillsboro, OR. Dr. Merat Ostovar and our experienced team are ready to help you achieve your best smile.

Written by Dr. Merat Ostovar, DDS

Doctor of Dental Surgery | 15+ Years Experience

Aloha Modern Dentistry | Beaverton, Oregon

Last updated: November 22, 2025