New Patients
Your first visit to Legacy Smile Co. establishes a vital foundation for our relationship with you. During the first visit, we are meticulous in obtaining important background information, like your medical history, and to give you time to get to know your doctor. To fully understand what to expect at your first visit to our practice, please read through this page. You’ll find all the practical information you need, such as a map and directions to our office, practice hours, payment policies and more. There’s also information about our first visit procedures.
Your First Visit Will Include:
• Acquainting you with our office and staff.
• Reviewing your medical history.
• Documenting your current dental history.
• Performing a visual examination of your mouth, including an oral cancer screening.
• Taking only necessary diagnostic and screening x-rays.
• A diagnosis and written treatment plan will be prepared. You will receive a written copy.
• Recommendations for home-care and prevention will be included, based on our findings.
Patient Accolades:
Sherry C – Bristol, Virginia
“Dr. Rice and her staff are just wonderful. I have gone to Dr. Rice for years and now I am no longer afraid of dentists. She is the best, and I would, and do, recommend her to anyone who is looking for a dentist.”
Tootie R – Bristol, Virginia
“I just love her. She is wonderful. She thinks of you. I cannot say enough about her. She is great.”
Jay W – Bristol, Tennessee
“After my dentist left Bristol I had just about given up on finding a replacement who was as caring, skillful and compassionate until I met Dr. Janet Hatcher Rice. She is truly an artist, an engineer and a caring soul. Not only has she put a smile back on my face, she has put a smile in my heart!”
Appointments
We know you have many choices when choosing a dentist in the Tri-Cities region, so we have made requesting an appointment a simple process via our website. If, for any reason, you are unable keep a scheduled appointment, or will be delayed, please call us as soon as possible.
Insurance & Financial Information
If you have dental insurance, we’re happy to help you maximize your benefits. Our team will file your claims electronically on your behalf, and your insurance company will send reimbursement directly to you according to your plan’s out-of-network benefits. While we cannot guarantee coverage or payment amounts, we’ll gladly provide estimates and help you understand your benefits whenever possible.
We believe financial transparency is an important part of building trust. Before treatment begins, you’ll receive a personalized treatment plan outlining your recommended care, estimated insurance benefits (when applicable), and your expected financial responsibility. Our goal is for you to feel informed and confident every step of the way—without surprises.
At Legacy Smile Co., we believe your dental health is one of the most valuable investments you can make in your overall well-being. Our commitment is to provide exceptional, personalized care that is guided by your individual needs, goals, and long-term health—not by the limitations of an insurance plan.
As an independent practice, we are out-of-network with all dental insurance plans. This allows Dr. Courtney Blankenship to recommend the treatment she believes is best for you, using high-quality materials, advanced technology, and the time needed to deliver exceptional care.
Payment in full is expected at the time of treatment. We accept checks, cash, MasterCard, American Express, Visa, and Discover Cards.
If you have questions about your insurance coverage, payment options, or financing, our team is always happy to help. Please give us a call—we’d love the opportunity to serve you.

