New Patients
Welcome to Belfast River Dental
Your first visit at our Richmond Hill practice, planned around your time, from Dr. Nicole Yates and her team.
What to Expect at Your First Visit
Plan for about 60 to 90 minutes. Here is how we spend that time:
- We review your medical and dental history together and answer any questions you have coming in.
- We complete a comprehensive exam, an oral cancer screening, and any x-rays that will help us see the full picture.
- Dr. Yates walks you through what she sees, in plain language, and outlines a plan that fits your priorities and your budget.
- Many patients can begin treatment the same day. If today is not the right day, we will schedule the next visit before you leave.
- You leave with clear next steps and a written estimate before any treatment begins.
Your time matters. Dr. Yates plans efficiently: thorough but never rushed, so most first visits deliver a full assessment and a clear plan in a single appointment.
Forms and What to Bring
To make your first visit smooth, you can complete our new-patient forms online before you arrive, or arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to complete it in the office. Either works.
Please bring:
- A photo ID
- Your insurance card, if you have one
- A list of any medications you take
If you have recent x-rays from another dentist, let us know when you book. We can request them from your previous office and save you a scan.
Meet Dr. Nicole Yates
Dr. Yates has 13 years of clinical experience and a background in military dentistry, where she trained to plan care comprehensively for every patient. She personally handles routine care, cosmetic dentistry, extractions, implants, bone grafting, and more. Most patients don’t need to be referred out for treatment other dentists send elsewhere.
She also treats patients with complex medical histories that other offices sometimes turn away.
Insurance and Payment
Cost shouldn’t be a surprise. You will get a written estimate before any treatment begins.
In-Network Insurance
We are in network with most major PPOs. See our full list of accepted plans.
Membership Plan
No insurance? Our PlanForward membership plan covers exams, cleanings, and discounts on treatment for a flat annual fee.
Payment Options
CareCredit and Sunbit financing are available for larger treatment plans, alongside standard payment methods.
What Makes Us Different
Comprehensive care, one location
Extractions, implants, cosmetic, restorative, TMJ, family dentistry. Fewer referrals, less driving around town.
Same-day dentistry
When possible, we begin treatment at your first visit so you’re not scheduling a second trip for something we could handle today.
A small, personal practice
You’ll see the same faces at the front desk and the same doctor at the chair every visit. A full team, not a factory.
New Patient FAQs
Do you accept my insurance?
We are in network with most major PPO plans including Aetna, Cigna, Delta Dental, MetLife, and many more. See our Dental Insurance page for the full list, or call us and we will confirm your plan while you are on the line.
What if it has been a while since I've seen a dentist?
We see patients every week who tell us it has been years. There is no lecture. We start with where you are, walk you through what we see, and prioritize what matters most. The rest we plan out at a pace that works for you and your budget.
Do you see kids?
Yes. We see the whole family. Bring the kids along and we can often coordinate multiple family appointments in one visit.
Can I start treatment the same day as my first visit?
Often, yes. If a filling, extraction, or another procedure comes up during your exam and it makes sense to handle it now, Dr. Yates will offer to complete it the same day. You are never obligated. The choice is yours.
I have a medical condition that makes dental care complicated. Can you still see me?
Yes. Dr. Yates’s surgical training included managing patients with complex medical histories, and we routinely coordinate with your physician when it is appropriate. If you have questions before booking, please call us.
What's your cancellation policy?
Because we hold your appointment time for you, we ask for at least 24 hours notice if you need to reschedule so we can offer that slot to another patient. Life happens. A quick call as soon as you know is all we ask.
Ready to Book Your First Visit?
Schedule online in under a minute, or give us a call and we’ll take care of it for you.