What happens at a dental check-up and clean?
A dental check-up and clean is a preventive appointment where your teeth, gums and mouth are examined, and plaque and tartar are removed. At AMK Dental Clinic, the check-up and clean is provided by our dental team.
A typical visit includes:
- A chat about your health. We ask about any changes to your medical history and medicines, and about any concerns you have with your teeth.
- An examination. Your dentist checks each tooth for decay, cracks and wear, checks existing fillings and crowns, and looks at your gums, tongue, cheeks and throat, including an oral cancer screen.
- X-rays, if needed. These help find decay between teeth and changes in the bone that cannot be seen by eye.
- A scale and clean. Hardened plaque (tartar or calculus) is removed from above and just below the gumline.
- A polish and, if suitable, fluoride. Polishing removes surface stains, and fluoride helps strengthen enamel.
- Advice and a plan. We explain what we found, show you any areas to focus on when brushing and flossing, and give you a written estimate if treatment is needed.
Why is a regular check-up important?
Regular check-ups help find tooth decay, gum disease and other problems early, often before they cause pain. Healthdirect notes that early detection can help you avoid painful and costly treatment later.
A professional clean also removes tartar, which is hardened plaque that brushing and flossing at home cannot remove. Tartar along the gumline irritates the gums and can contribute to gum disease.
How often should I have a check-up and clean?
Most people benefit from a check-up and clean every 6 to 12 months. The Australian Dental Association advises seeing your dentist 6 monthly or yearly, even if you have no problems with your mouth.
At AMK Dental Clinic, your dentist will recommend a recall interval that suits you. People with a history of gum disease, frequent decay, diabetes, or who smoke may be advised to come in more often. People with low risk may be fine with a yearly visit.
What is a scale and clean?
A scale and clean is a professional cleaning that removes plaque and tartar from the surfaces of your teeth, including just below the gumline. It is usually done with a combination of an ultrasonic scaler, which uses vibration and a water spray, and fine hand instruments.
Your gums may bleed a little during the clean if they are inflamed. That usually settles as your gums become healthier. If you have signs of more advanced gum disease, such as deep gum pockets or bone loss, your dentist may recommend a more thorough cleaning over one or more longer appointments.
What do fluoride and fissure sealants do?
Fluoride and fissure sealants are two preventive treatments that help protect teeth from decay.
- Fluoride is a mineral that strengthens tooth enamel and makes it more resistant to acid attack. A concentrated fluoride gel or varnish may be applied after your clean if your dentist thinks you would benefit.
- Fissure sealants are a protective coating painted into the deep grooves of the back teeth. Healthdirect explains that they are most often placed in children aged 6 and older and teenagers, that no anaesthetic is needed, and that they can wear down and sometimes need replacing.
For more on children’s prevention, see children’s dentistry.
How can I keep my gums healthy between visits?
Healthy gums are pink and firm and do not bleed when you brush. Signs of gum problems include bleeding when brushing or flossing, red or swollen gums, bad breath that does not go away, and gums that are pulling back from the teeth.
To look after your gums at home:
- Brush twice a day for 2 minutes with a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Clean between your teeth every day with floss or interdental brushes.
- Limit sugary foods and drinks, especially between meals.
- If you smoke, ask us or your GP about support to quit, as smoking increases the risk of gum disease.
If you notice bleeding or other gum changes, book a check-up. See general dentistry for more on gum care.
What does a check-up and clean cost?
The cost of a check-up and clean depends on whether you need X-rays, fluoride or other items at the visit. AMK Dental Clinic can tell you the item numbers in advance so you can check your cover. Many extras policies pay towards these items, within annual limits, waiting periods and frequency rules, and we offer on-the-spot claiming through HICAPS. See fees and health funds, or book online or call (02) 9739 6525.
Common questions
How often should I have a dental check-up and clean?
Most people should have a dental check-up and clean every 6 to 12 months. Healthdirect recommends seeing your dental practitioner every 6 to 12 months, or as often as they recommend. At AMK Dental Clinic, your dentist will suggest a recall time based on your risk of decay and gum disease, which may be more often if you have gum problems.
Does a scale and clean hurt?
During a scale and clean you may feel scraping, vibration or some sensitivity, especially if there is a lot of tartar or your gums are inflamed. How it feels varies from person to person. Let your dentist know if anything is uncomfortable, as we can pause or adjust. Local anaesthetic is available for deeper cleaning if needed. Gums may be tender for a day or two afterwards.
Is my check-up and clean covered by my health fund?
Many extras policies pay towards a check-up, scale and clean, fluoride and X-rays, up to annual limits and subject to waiting periods and frequency rules. Whether you have a gap depends on your fund and level of cover. AMK Dental Clinic offers on-the-spot claiming through HICAPS, and we can give you item numbers so you can check with your fund first.
Do I need X-rays at every check-up?
No. Dental X-rays are not taken at every visit. At AMK Dental Clinic, your dentist decides whether X-rays are needed based on your age, history and risk of decay. Bitewing X-rays help find decay between teeth and bone loss that cannot be seen by eye. We will explain why an X-ray is recommended before we take it.
Why do my gums bleed when I brush?
Bleeding gums are a common early sign of gingivitis, which is inflammation of the gums caused by plaque build-up along the gumline. Gingivitis can often be reversed with a professional clean and better daily brushing and flossing. If bleeding continues, it may be a sign of more advanced gum disease, so book a check-up at AMK Dental Clinic to have your gums assessed.
What are fissure sealants?
Fissure sealants are a protective coating painted into the deep grooves of the back teeth to help prevent decay. Healthdirect notes they are most often placed in children aged 6 and older and teenagers, and that no anaesthetic is needed. Sealants can wear down with chewing and are checked at regular visits, as they sometimes need to be replaced.