It is essential to make at least two dental visits a year. It allows your dentist to check for potential problems you might not see or feel.
It allows them to identify early signs of decay and treat them accordingly. The earlier your dentist detects your oral problem, the more manageable it is.
Why is a dental examination necessary?
It helps you maintain a healthy lifestyle. In most cases, individuals don’t discover their decay or disease in the oral cavity until the very last minute, and extreme measures should be taken. It affects their health and can severely damage their oral tissues while heavy on the pocket. It is important to prioritise dental examinations and check-ups to prevent that from happening.
National Dental Care believes in pain and anxiety-free dentistry. We provide comprehensive dental treatments to all patients at affordable prices. Each piece of equipment is of the highest quality.
Additionally, our dental team guides you about the examination and check-up and begins your oral exam. We guarantee a safe dental experience!
What should I expect in a routine examination?
Treatment by professionals: your dentist and a dental hygienist will check your oral health. A gum examination will be done, and questions will be asked regarding the products used to care for your teeth and gums. The hygienist will also look for signs of oral cancer and other diseases. The treatment recommendations will be made accordingly.
Cleaning: the hygienist will use instruments to clean your teeth. Any hardened plaque buildup on the teeth will be removed, and deep cleaning will be provided above and below the gum line.
Polishing: once the cleaning is done, your teeth will be polished to remove any signs of stains or plaque. The polish has fluoride and is applied using a small instrument.
X-rays: if your dentist feels there is a need for an X-ray, they will take some. It will be determined after your oral exam.
Treatment recommendations: once your oral examination is done, your dentist will tell you the next steps that need to be taken. If there are any oral problems found, necessary tests will be conducted.
Why check-ups are important
Dentists recommend having a check-up and clean twice a year. A regular check-up every 6-months is the best way to maintain a great smile, spot any potential issues, and treat them before they become a problem.
Using your dental extras is a great way to maintain your oral health, and boost your wellbeing, without paying out-of-pocket costs - check with your health fund provider to see what you're covered for.
What information do I need to share on a new dental visit?
You must be vocal about your dental issues when visiting a new dentist. They will question you about your oral health and your health in general.
Areas that they will be most inquired about are:
Medical history/Current medicinesThey must know if you’ve been diagnosed with a disease. Some medicines can elevate the risk of cavities or cause a dry mouth, and your dentist would want to know. Various diseases, such as diabetes, can increase the risk of gum diseases, so there is an entirely different dental treatment. It is best to take along any medicines you’re on currently.
Current dental healthYou must not think twice about telling your dentist about any discomfort or sensitivity you feel in your teeth. The first meeting should address any lumps, bumps, or cavities. They will help make an early diagnosis and treat it better.
Dental fearsBe honest about any dental fears you may have. The procedures have advanced in recent years, and treatment is not as painful as you might have heard. Once you discuss your fears, it will help make you more comfortable.
It is never too late to take care of your wellbeing
We understand that it may be scary to visit the dentist or it may have been some time. We don’t judge. We are here to provide an expert helping hand to get you back in good health, as you only get one set of teeth, so let's keep you smiling.
If you are a health fund member, there are extra perks saving you money, but we also don’t want to forget about those who don’t have health coverage - we've got you covered, too - with our new patient offer.
Get in touch with our friendly team to schedule your appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
It is recommended to visit a dental clinic and get routine dental exams and check-ups every six months. However, each case differs. If you have poor oral hygiene and your mouth is full of dental issues, you will have to visit the dentist more frequently.
Such people include those who have:
- Gum diseases
- Family history of cavities or plaque buildup
- A weak immune system (the body can’t fight diseases or infections)
- Extreme stress or illness (infections can occur in the mouth)
In Australia, the cost of a regular dental check-up will vary based on a number of factors.
Typically, a check-up will include an oral exam, x-rays, and cleaning from a dental hygienist. Your appointment may cost more if you require additional services, or less if you don’t need all of the above.
Most private health insurance companies will provide some level of rebate for dental check-ups, as they are considered preventative treatments. Check with your health fund provider, as you may be entitled to at least one gap-free check-up per year.
No, your dental cleaning should not be painful.
During the cleaning, your practitioner will floss and polish your teeth, and use a descaler to remove any built-up plaque. While some of these steps may feel a little uncomfortable, you can ask to pause at any time.
If you do experience pain during cleaning, let your dentist know, and they can investigate the issue.
To prepare for your dental appointment, brush and floss your teeth before visiting your dentist. You should also think about whether you have any questions for your dentist regarding your oral health, and be prepared to let them know if you have any issues you’d like to discuss, such as dental pain.