New patients

Welcome. Here’s exactly what to expect.

Whether you just moved to the Tri-Valley or you’ve been quietly considering a change for a while, we’ve set up your first visit to be calm, thorough, and unhurried.

Quick answer New patients at Dublin Ranch Dental are scheduled for an unhurried 60–90 minute first visit that includes a comprehensive exam with Dr. Prajesh Desai, full digital X-rays, a periodontal evaluation, and a thorough conversation about your goals. Most new patients are seen within 1–2 weeks. Cosmetic and restorative consultations are complimentary, with no obligation to proceed. We accept most major PPO insurance plans and offer flexible financing through CareCredit, Sunbit, in-house monthly arrangements, and HSA/FSA. Every treatment plan is personalized, with pricing discussed openly in person.

Your first visit, step by step

  1. Before you arrive. We send a mobile-friendly intake link the day before. Most patients fill it out in under 7 minutes.
  2. When you arrive. Step-free entry, accessible parking, accessible restroom. Reception offers tea, espresso, or sparkling water.
  3. Imaging. Full-mouth digital X-rays and an iTero scan if you’re here for a cosmetic or restorative question.
  4. Exam with Dr. Desai. Comprehensive oral exam, oral cancer screening, periodontal evaluation, bite check. You’ll see everything we see, on screen.
  5. Conversation. What do you want? What have you been told? What are you worried about? We don’t rush this part.
  6. Cleaning. Same-day cleaning when periodontal health allows.
  7. Plan. Written treatment plan with itemized fees and financing options. No pressure, no follow-up sales calls.

What to bring

  • A photo ID
  • Your insurance card (if applicable)
  • A list of any current medications
  • Records from your previous dentist, if you have them. (We’ll request them for you if you don’t.)

Insurance & financing

We accept and bill most major PPO insurance plans (Aetna, Cigna, Delta Dental PPO, Guardian, MetLife, United Concordia, BlueCross/BlueShield, Anthem, and others). If we are not in-network with your specific plan, our front office will help you understand and submit for out-of-network reimbursement. CareCredit, Sunbit, and in-house financing make most treatment plans manageable monthly. HSA and FSA accounts are welcome.

A note on cost: we plan and price every case individually rather than from a price list. We’re flexible about pacing the work to fit your finances — sometimes we’ll do the most urgent thing now and phase the rest over the next year. We genuinely want the right care to be workable for your life.

New mover? Welcome to the Tri-Valley.

If you’ve just relocated to Dublin, Pleasanton, San Ramon, Livermore, Castro Valley, or Danville, we’re glad you found us. Approximately 70% of people moving to a new area choose a new dentist within the first six months, and we’d love to be on your list. Bring your records — we’ll request anything you don’t already have.

Considering a change from another dentist?

That’s also normal. We give second opinions gladly, in writing, with no pressure to switch. If you’d like us to evaluate work that another dentist has proposed, please bring whatever documentation you have. We will be honest.

FAQ

How quickly can I be seen as a new patient?

Most new patients are scheduled within one to two weeks. Same-day emergency appointments are available during business hours.

Do you take my insurance?

We accept and bill most major PPO plans. We are not a DHMO or Medi-Cal provider. Our front office will pre-verify your benefits before your first visit.

Is there a new-patient special?

Yes. $89 for a comprehensive exam, full digital X-rays, and basic cleaning (subject to your gum health). Cosmetic and implant consultations are always complimentary.

Is the office accessible?

Yes. Step-free entry from the parking lot, accessible parking, accessible restroom. If you have a specific accommodation request, please let us know in advance.