As a new patient, I called yesterday and inquired about coming in and was pleasantly surprised that they could take me that morning. When they realized that morning was not going to work, they were able to get me the following day in the afternoon. I filled out all their 6 documents online ahead of time but still arrived early (~10 minutes) per their request.
When I got there, I was greeted by the receptionist and provided her my insurance card and ID. I sat down and ignored the loud volume on the TV over me showing a cartoon. Very kid-friendly, I suppose. Four ladies came in after me. Three of them were permitted to get their designated appointments taken care of before 1:30. My appointment was at 1:00.
By 1:30, I inquired about why I was still waiting when they came in after me. It doesn't help that I already have some dental anxiety. I was told the hygienist I was scheduled to see was a little behind schedule. For the record, 30 minutes doesn't seem too little to me. As a new patient, I didn't know I was booked a specific hygienist and thought it was rather unusual that I still wasn't seen before the others. I believe one lady had a dental emergency, but I am not sure.
I waited a little longer and a woman came out to offer me some water, apologize for the delay, and offer a reschedule and/or discount on a treatment. When I asked what treatment she was referring to, she said that would determine on what they find out when they see me. I was told that I will have to wait no more than 10-15 more minutes. Well those minutes turned to be another 40 minutes. At the 2:00 hour, after mutually venting with another new patient who had a 1:00 appointment for merely a consultation, I left the office.
I will not to go back. Perhaps my initial interest in another dentist practice not too far will be better. I just moved here from Maryland almost a year ago. Back on the East coast, I had a great dentist next to the best pizza shop and went to him for many many years until I decided to move.
Wish me luck!