Finding a new dentist can feel overwhelming, but at Webster Groves Dental, we make it simple, welcoming, and stress-free from the very first phone call. Whether you’re new to the area or just ready for a fresh dental experience, Dr. Matthew Wenzel and our friendly team are dedicated to helping you feel comfortable, informed, and confident in your oral health care.
This new patient guide walks you through what to expect before, during, and after your first appointment - plus helpful information about insurance options, payment plans, and our Webster Smiles Membership Plan for patients without insurance.
Step 1: Scheduling Your First Appointment
Booking your first visit is quick and easy. Our front desk team will work with you to find an appointment that fits your schedule, including evening hours on Mondays and Wednesdays for added convenience. During this first conversation, you can also discuss your dental history, any concerns you’d like to address, and whether you’d like to include a cleaning in your initial visit.
You can call our office directly or request an appointment online. If you’re bringing your family, we can often schedule back-to-back visits so everyone is seen the same day.
Step 2: Completing New Patient Paperwork
Before your appointment, we’ll ask you to fill out a few forms about your medical history, current medications, and dental insurance coverage.
To save time, you can complete these forms online before your visit. Prefer to do it in person? No problem - just arrive 15 minutes early so you can complete your paperwork before we begin.
These details help us understand your overall health picture and provide safe, personalized care.
Step 3: Your First Dental Cleaning and Exam
When you arrive, one of our hygienists will welcome you and take a series of digital X-rays to get a complete view of your teeth, gums, and bone structure. We’ll talk about your oral hygiene habits and address any concerns you have about sensitivity, gum health, or past dental work.
After your cleaning, Dr. Wenzel will perform a comprehensive dental exam. He’ll review your X-rays, check for early signs of cavities or gum disease, and evaluate your bite alignment and any dental restorations.
Most importantly, this is your time to ask questions and discuss your goals. Whether you’re interested in maintaining a healthy smile or exploring cosmetic options like veneers, teeth whitening, or dental implants, Dr. Wenzel will explain every recommendation clearly so you can make informed decisions about your care.
Step 4: Reviewing Treatment Options and Next Steps
If treatment is needed - such as a filling, crown, or root canal - we’ll explain all available options, the associated costs, and what to expect during each procedure. Our goal is transparency and comfort.
At Webster Groves Dental, you’ll never feel rushed or pressured. We’ll walk you through a personalized treatment plan that fits your schedule and budget, and we’re always happy to prioritize care if multiple treatments are needed.
Step 5: Checking Out and Understanding Payment Options
When your appointment wraps up, our front desk team will review your insurance coverage and provide a clear breakdown of any out-of-pocket costs. We work with most major dental insurance companies and are in-network with Delta Dental, Cigna, Aetna, United Healthcare, and more.
We also accept all major payment types, including:
- Cash and check
- Credit and debit cards
- CareCredit healthcare financing
CareCredit offers no-interest financing for up to 24 months on qualifying purchases over $200, making it easier to manage larger treatment plans without delaying care.
If you don’t have insurance, ask about Webster Smiles - our in-house membership dental savings plan that delivers amazing value and convenience for individuals and families.
Step 6: Explore the Webster Smiles Membership Plan
For patients without dental insurance, the Webster Smiles Membership Plan is a simple, affordable way to maintain regular care while saving hundreds of dollars each year.
Members enjoy benefits such as:
- Two professional cleanings per year (or four for perio plans)
- Two exams and fluoride treatments annually
- X-rays (including bitewings and panoramic every five years)
- Two emergency exams if needed
- 15% discount on most other treatments
Membership Options:
- Adult (13+) – $35/month
- Child (12 and under) – $31/month
- Perio plan (for ongoing gum treatment) – $73/month
- One-time $70 activation fee (includes first month)
Unlike traditional insurance, this plan has no deductibles, maximums, waiting periods, or claim forms. You get immediate coverage and complete freedom to choose the treatments you need.
This plan is especially popular among retirees, small business owners, and families who want predictable dental costs without insurance hassles.
Step 7: Building a Lifetime of Healthy Smiles
Your first appointment is just the start of a partnership. Our goal is to help you and your family maintain healthy, confident smiles for life.
After your initial visit, we’ll schedule your next cleaning or any necessary treatment. We also send friendly reminders so you’ll never miss a preventive checkup.
Many of our patients in Webster Groves, Shrewsbury, and surrounding St. Louis communities have trusted Dr. Wenzel for years because of his thorough, patient-first approach and dedication to high-quality care.
Whether you’re coming in for a simple cleaning, a cosmetic upgrade, or restorative care, our entire team is committed to creating a positive experience every time you visit.
Ready to Join the Webster Groves Dental Family?
If you’ve been searching for a trusted dentist in Webster Groves, MO, look no further. At Webster Groves Dental, we combine advanced technology, genuine compassion, and clear communication to make every visit stress-free.
Schedule your first appointment today – Call our office or request an appointment online to get started.
No insurance? Ask about the Webster Smiles Membership Plan and start saving on preventive, restorative, and cosmetic treatments immediately.
We can’t wait to welcome you to our dental family!