For Patients
Everything you need before, during and after your visit.
Welcome
New patient information
- 1
Choose your office
Pikesville or Eldersburg, whichever is closer to home or work.
- 2
Share your insurance
Tell us your plan and we will confirm your benefits before you arrive.
- 3
Fill out your forms
Complete your new patient forms ahead of time to save time at the front desk.
Getting started
Your first visit
What to expect
- A conversation about your goals, concerns and dental history
- A comprehensive exam and any needed X-rays
- A professional cleaning when appropriate
- A clear treatment plan with costs explained before anything begins
What to bring
- Photo ID
- Insurance card
- List of current medications
- Completed new patient forms
Save time
Patient forms
HIPAA Acknowledgement
Read our notice of privacy practices; you will sign the acknowledgement at your first visit.
Read the noticeAsk your office to email your forms, or arrive 15 minutes early and we will have them ready for you.
Insurance & financing
Care that fits your plan
Most dental insurance plans are accepted. Tell us your plan when you book and we will verify your benefits before your first visit, so there are no surprises.
Need help fitting treatment into your budget? Ask our front desk about payment plans and financing options before treatment begins.
- Most PPO dental insurance plans
- Cash and personal checks
- Visa, Mastercard, Discover & American Express
- HSA/FSA cards
- Financing options. Ask our front desk
Billing
Payment options
Most PPO dental insurance plans
Cash and personal checks
Visa, Mastercard, Discover & American Express
HSA/FSA cards
Questions
Patient FAQs
Which office should I choose?
Whichever is more convenient. Pikesville Dental Associates is on Old Court Road in Baltimore County, and Today's Dental at Eldersburg is on Liberty Road in Carroll County. Dr. Rao sees patients at both.
Do you accept my insurance?
Most dental insurance plans are accepted. Tell us your plan when you book and we will verify your coverage before you come in.
What if I have a dental emergency?
Call your office right away. We strive to see emergency patients within the same business day whenever possible.
Do you see children?
Yes. We care for children, teens and adults, and we keep first visits friendly and relaxed.
I am nervous about the dentist. Can you help?
Absolutely. Dr. Rao is experienced with anxious patients. We explain each step, you set the pace, and we pause whenever you ask.
Are Invisalign and Botox available at both offices?
Please call the office you plan to visit and our team will confirm availability and schedule a consultation.
Aftercare
Post-operative instructions
After a filling
Wait until numbness wears off before eating. Mild sensitivity for a few days is normal.
After an extraction
Bite on gauze for 30–45 minutes. Avoid straws, smoking and spitting for 24 hours.
After a crown or bridge
Avoid sticky or hard foods on a temporary crown. Call us if it comes loose.
After root canal therapy
Some tenderness is normal for a few days. Take medication as directed.
After whitening
Avoid coffee, tea and red wine for 48 hours to protect your results.
Concerned about pain, bleeding or swelling after treatment? Call your office right away.
Ready for a healthier smile?
New patients are always welcome at both offices.