Teeth and existing dental work
Teeth may be checked for decay, cracks, wear, sensitivity or other changes. Existing fillings, crowns, bridges, dentures and other dental work may also be assessed.
Dental Check-Up
Routine Care That Supports Oral Health
A dental check-up reviews the teeth, gums, bite, existing dental work and any concerns noticed. Findings help determine whether monitoring, preventive advice, further assessment or treatment may be appropriate.
Book a dental check-up online, or call the practice if you have a specific concern or are unsure which appointment may be appropriate.
Dental Check-Up appointment details
May be appropriate for
Routine oral health reviews, changes in teeth or gums, review of existing dental work, preventive planning and patients returning after a gap in care.
Fees
Fees depend on your assessment, any required X-rays, and other services. Estimated costs are discussed before further treatment.
Appointment Duration
Appointment length and timing vary according to individual oral health, symptoms, risk factors and the amount of assessment required.
Start Here
An Assessment Before Treatment Decisions
A dental check-up is an assessment of your current oral health. It may identify areas that appear stable, changes that should be monitored, or concerns that may need preventive care, further investigation or treatment.
A check-up does not mean treatment is automatically required. The findings are discussed so appropriate monitoring, preventive care or treatment options can be considered.
Start here if
- 01You would like a general review of your teeth, gums and existing dental work.
- 02It has been some time since your last dental appointment.
- 03You have noticed sensitivity, bleeding gums, changes in your bite, tooth wear or another change.
- 04You need an assessment before deciding whether any dental treatment should be planned.
Assessment
What your dentist checks
The assessment is guided by the reason for the visit, dental history, symptoms and findings during the examination.
Gums and soft tissues
The dentist may assess gum health, including bleeding, recession, plaque and calculus, and examine visible oral tissues for changes requiring monitoring or further assessment.
Bite, jaw, and tooth wear
The bite, jaw movement and signs of clenching, grinding or tooth wear may be assessed when relevant to the symptoms or dental history.
Records when indicated
Dental X-rays, photographs, scans or previous records may be recommended when clinically indicated and when they may provide information unavailable through visual examination alone.
Your Appointment
What happens at your appointment
Your check-up may include a review of your concerns, oral health and existing dental work. The findings and available next steps are explained before further care is planned.
Discuss the Reason for the Visit
Dental and medical history, symptoms, priorities and any concerns about the appointment can be discussed.
Complete the Relevant Examination
The dentist carries out the examination appropriate to the concern. Any additional assessment or records considered necessary will be explained.
Discuss the Findings
The dentist explains what was identified and whether monitoring, preventive care, treatment, further assessment or referral may be appropriate. Relevant options, limitations, risks and fees are discussed before proceeding.
Recall Planning
Recall Timing Can Change Over Time
A dental schedule is not necessarily fixed. The suggested timing may change as oral health, medical circumstances, medications, home care or dental treatment needs change.
- The recommended interval is based on current clinical findings and individual risk factors.
- More frequent visits may be discussed when a condition or recent treatment requires monitoring.
- Contact the practice before the next scheduled visit if pain, swelling, sensitivity, bleeding or another concern develops.
Related Care
When More Specific Care May Be Discussed
A check-up may identify an area that requires monitoring, preventive care, further assessment or treatment. These pages explain some of the services that may be discussed after the clinical findings are reviewed.
Fees, Health Funds, Payment Options
Helpful
FAQs
Practical Questions About Dental Check-Ups
Answers to common questions about scale and cleans, X-rays, appointment planning and making informed decisions about any recommended care.
No. A check-up is an assessment of the teeth, gums, bite, oral tissues and existing dental work. A scale and clean removes plaque and calculus and may include oral hygiene guidance. Depending on individual needs and appointment arrangements, these services may be provided together or separately.
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