New patients
Your first visit, start to finish
Whether it has been six months or six years, you are welcome here. Here is exactly what happens when you join Chemung Family Dental, so you can walk in knowing what to expect.
- ★★★★★4.9 from 440+ Google reviews
- New patients welcome
Step by step
What happens, in order
No surprises. This is the whole first visit, from booking to the follow-up call.
First visits take longer than a routine checkup. Ask when you book and we will give you a time estimate.
- Before
Book online or call
Request a time online or call (607) 734-2045. Tell us if you are nervous or in pain so we can plan the visit around you.
- Before
Fill out your forms at home
Download the patient forms and complete them before you come in. Prefer paper? Arrive a few minutes early and we will have them ready.
- Arrival
A friendly welcome
Our front desk greets you, confirms your information, and answers any insurance questions. Bring your insurance card, ID, and medication list.
- In the chair
We get to know you
We review your medical and dental history, take any digital x-rays you need, and do a gentle, thorough exam.
- Together
Your plan, explained clearly
Dr. Dunn explains what he found and your options. You get an estimate before any treatment begins, and nothing starts without your agreement.
- After
A courtesy call
After a procedure, expect a call from Dr. Dunn to see how you are feeling. It is one of the things our patients mention most.
Nervous? You are not alone
Comfort is part of the plan
If you are anxious about the dentist, let us know. It changes how we plan your visit.
- Nitrous oxide to take the edge off during treatment.
- Sedation options up to general anesthesia for surgery. Learn about sedation.
- Every step explained before it happens, and you can ask us to pause at any time.
Cost and coverage
Know the cost before you start
Money questions are fair questions. You will see an estimate before any treatment begins, and nothing starts without your yes.
Insurance, handled
We file your claims and check your benefits. Most dental PPO plans still pay toward care here.
How insurance worksPay over time
Cash, check, and major cards, plus monthly plans through Cherry and CareCredit.
Payment optionsFree consultations
Implant and sleep apnea consultations are complimentary. Come ask your questions.
Explore implantsWho you will meet
Friendly faces, from day one
Dr. Richard B. Dunn, DDS, FACD
Your dentist. Caring for Elmira families since 1988, placing implants since 1984, and a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine.
Rita ThompsonRegistered dental hygienist
Nikole LongwellRegistered dental hygienist
Jessica TurnerCertified dental assistant, sleep department
Kristy AtkinsCertified dental assistant, hygiene and oral surgery
Brenda BuseckDental assistant
Ann DonovanReception and business office
Rachael BailloReception, business office, sleep department
Patient stories
What new patients tell us
I am a new patient at Chemung Family Dental but I feel like I have been going there for years. They make you feel very welcome.
The hygienist Rita is most patient centered, very professional and expertly skilled. She immediately sets the patient at ease… The office staff made me feel like I was a long term patient, despite the fact that this is my first visit to this practice.
Everyone is so friendly…and understanding! I have never been a fan of going to the dentist but they all make it so comfortable!
I was self conscious about my teeth, but I was very comfortable asking questions. They offered options for my treatment and it was my decision. No pushy sales pitches for more expensive treatments.
I can’t say enough good things about this place. EVERYONE is compassionate and caring. Ann is so kind and helpful at the front desk.
Questions
New patient questions
Still wondering about something? Our front desk is happy to help.
Are you accepting new patients?
Yes. Book online or call (607) 734-2045 and we will find a time that works for you.
What should I bring to my first visit?
Your insurance card if you have one, a photo ID, a list of the medications you take, and your completed patient forms.
Do you see children?
Yes. We care for patients of every age, from a child’s first visit to grandparents, so the whole family can be seen in one office.
I have not been to the dentist in years. Is that a problem?
Not at all. Many of our patients started exactly where you are. We will not lecture you. We will look at where things stand and walk you through your options at your pace.
I am nervous. What can you do?
Tell us when you book. We offer nitrous oxide and other comfort options, and we explain each step before we do it. You can ask us to pause at any time.
Do you take my insurance?
We are a fee-for-service office, and we file claims for you. Most dental PPO plans still pay toward care here. Call us with your plan details and we will check your benefits. How insurance works.
Do you accept Medicaid?
We are not enrolled with Medicaid or Fidelis, so those plans will not pay toward care here. You are still welcome as a patient. Call us and we will walk you through costs and financing options.
Do I need a consultation for implants or sleep apnea?
Yes, and those consultations are complimentary. It is the best way to get answers specific to you.
What if I have a heart condition or joint replacement?
Some patients need antibiotics before dental treatment. Read our premedication guidelines and let us know your history when you book.
Visit us
Come see us on Broadway
- 1007 Broadway St, Elmira, NY 14904Get directions
- Monday to Wednesday, 7am to 4pmThursday, 7am to 2pm. Closed Friday to Sunday.
We cannot wait to meet you
Book your first visit online, or call and a real person will help you find a time.