Walking into a dental office for the first time, especially one focused on complex restorative care, can bring a mix of emotions. Whether you have been referred by your general dentist or found your way here after years of avoiding a problem you knew needed attention, your first maxillofacial prosthodontic consultation is far less intimidating than most people imagine. In fact, it is the moment when confusion gives way to clarity, and when a path forward finally begins to take shape.
At Ocean Breeze Implant & Esthetic Dentistry in Delray Beach, Dr. Nicholas Goetz and his team understand that arriving at that first appointment takes courage. Dr. Goetz is among a select group of approximately 150 maxillofacial prosthodontists practicing in the United States, bringing advanced training and a precision-driven approach to some of dentistry’s most complex cases. That first consultation is not about pressure or procedures. It is about understanding who you are, what you need, and how to build a plan that will last a lifetime.
What Happens Before You Ever Sit in the Chair
Preparation makes the visit smoother, and a little bit of advance thought goes a long way. You will be asked to complete some paperwork before your appointment, covering your medical history, current medications, past dental treatments, and any specific concerns or goals you are hoping to address. If you have existing X-rays or records from a previous dentist, bringing those along is helpful, though not required. The team at Ocean Breeze can take new imaging right in the office if needed.
It is also worth thinking ahead of time about what has been bothering you most. Whether it is discomfort when chewing, the appearance of your smile, missing teeth, or a long-standing issue you have never quite gotten around to addressing, articulating your concerns clearly helps Dr. Goetz build the most accurate picture of your needs from the very start. You can explore the full range of dental services offered at Ocean Breeze to get a sense of what may apply to your situation before you arrive.
What the Consultation Actually Involves
The first thing you will notice is that this is not a rushed appointment. Dr. Goetz takes the time to listen before he does anything else. The consultation begins with a detailed conversation about your dental history, your health background, and what brings you in. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, nearly 1 in 5 adults experience moderate-to-high dental fear that prevents them from seeking oral care. A patient-centered, unhurried approach is one of the most effective ways to change that experience. At Ocean Breeze, the goal is always to make sure you leave with more answers than questions.
A Comprehensive Examination
After the conversation, Dr. Goetz will conduct a thorough clinical examination. This exam typically includes a close look at your teeth, gums, bite alignment, and jaw function. Thanks to our investments in advanced intraoral scanning technology, digital imaging may also be incorporated when it supports a more accurate diagnosis. CBCT scanning is particularly valuable for evaluating bone structure in patients who may be candidates for implants or full-arch restoration. Technology at Ocean Breeze is used to support clinical judgment, not replace it.
The following elements are typically assessed during the examination phase of your consultation:
- Existing restorations: any crowns, bridges, dentures, or implants you currently have are evaluated for fit, function, and longevity
- Bite and jaw alignment: occlusion is examined to identify any imbalances contributing to wear, discomfort, or functional challenges
- Bone and tissue health: the condition of the gums and underlying bone informs what treatment options are available and most appropriate
- Esthetic goals: the visual aspects of your smile are discussed in relation to what is achievable within a comprehensive treatment plan
Every finding from the exam is explained to you in plain language, so you always know what is being observed and why it matters.
The Treatment Planning Discussion
Once the examination is complete, Dr. Goetz will walk you through his findings and present a treatment plan tailored specifically to you. This is the part of the consultation most patients find most valuable. Rather than a one-size-fits-all recommendation, the plan reflects your unique circumstances, goals, and the complexity of your case. Ocean Breeze takes on cases that other practices refer out, which means patients with significant dental needs are in capable, experienced hands. You can read more about why patients choose Ocean Breeze on their website.
What to Bring and How to Prepare
Arriving prepared can help you make the most of your visit. Bringing a list of your current medications and supplements is especially helpful, since these can affect your treatment options. If you have dental insurance, bring your information with you so the team can review how your benefits may apply.
Ocean Breeze is not in-network with insurance providers, but they will file claims on your behalf and help you pursue any reimbursement available through your PPO plan. If you’re wondering what your first visit will involve, the new patient resources page is a great place to start.
Begin Your Journey at Ocean Breeze Implant & Esthetic Dentistry
There is a reason Dr. Nicholas Goetz is trusted with cases that go beyond the scope of general dentistry. His training in maxillofacial prosthodontics, including a fellowship at UCLA, and his experience as a civilian maxillofacial prosthodontist for the U.S. Army and VA Medical Hospital reflect a depth of clinical experience matched by very few practitioners in the country. That background shapes every consultation, ensuring that even the most complex treatment plans are built on a foundation of precision, honesty, and long-term thinking.
If you have been putting off an appointment, wondering whether your case is too complicated, or simply looking for a dentist who will take the time to understand your needs, the first step is the most important one. Reach out to our team today to schedule your consultation and take that first step toward a smile that works and feels the way it should.
