Phone script · Dentist's office front desk

Booking a dental exam and cleaning

Say you're a new patient who wants an exam and cleaning, and ask if they take your dental plan, which is often separate from health insurance.

Have this ready

Your dental plan card, if you have one
Your calendar

What to say

Open
“Hi, my name is [your name]. I'd like to make an appointment as a new patient for an exam and cleaning.”
Check your plan
“I have [dental plan name]. Do you take it? [Or: I don't have dental insurance. What would an exam and cleaning cost?]”
Pick a time
“I'm usually free [days and times].”
Close
“Is there anything I should bring or fill out first? And what's your policy if I need to cancel?”

Write down the date, the name of the person you spoke with, and what they said.

Rather text or email?

The same ask, written down. Fill in the brackets, then copy. A written message also gives you a dated record.

Text or portal message

Hi, I'm [your name] and I'd like to book a new-patient exam and cleaning. I have [dental plan name]; do you take it? [Or: I don't have dental insurance. What would an exam and cleaning cost?] I'm usually free [days and times].

Email

Subject: New patient exam and cleaning

Hello,

My name is [your name], and I'd like to make an appointment as a new patient for an exam and cleaning.

I have [dental plan name]. Do you accept it? [Or: I don't have dental insurance. Could you tell me what an exam and cleaning would cost?]

I'm usually free [days and times]. Please let me know if there's anything to fill out first, and your cancellation policy.

Thank you,
[Your name]
[Phone number]

After the call

Dental isn't an essential health benefit for adults, so your health plan may not include it; in the Marketplace you can buy a separate dental plan, but check for waiting periods. Source: HealthCare.gov¹
Uninsured? HRSA-funded health centers offer dental care and adjust fees by income and family size. Source: HRSA²
CDC says to see a dentist at least once a year. Source: CDC³

The full lesson: Your first appointment

Sources

HealthCare.gov Dental coverage in the Marketplace
Health Resources and Services Administration What is a health center?
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Oral health tips for adults

Last checked October 2, 2026 against the sources listed.

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