What Happens During A Dental Check-Up?
During a dental check-up, our dentist will examine your teeth and gums and look for any early signs of decay or gum disease. We will also check existing fillings to make sure they are still in good condition, as these can wear down or develop small gaps over time. X-rays may be needed to get a better look at areas that cannot be seen properly during the examination, including between the teeth or below the gumline.
Once the check-up is done, our dentist will explain what they found and let you know if anything needs treatment or if it is simply something to keep an eye on.
Why Is A Professional Clean Important?
Even with careful brushing, plaque can harden into tartar, which a toothbrush cannot remove. A scale and polish clears this build-up along with surface staining and gives your gums a better chance to stay healthy. Many patients book their cleaning at the same appointment as their check-up.
It is also a sensible first step before teeth whitening, since whitening gel works more evenly on clean enamel.
When Might You Need A Filling?
A filling repairs a tooth that has been damaged by decay, or one that has chipped or cracked. It may be time to book if you notice:
- sensitivity to cold or sweet foods
- a rough edge or small hole you can feel with your tongue
- food catching between two teeth in the same spot
- a dark mark on the biting surface of a tooth
Many cavities cause no symptoms at all. That is why they are so often picked up during a routine check-up rather than because of pain.
What Is The Filling Process Like?
The area is usually numbed with a local anaesthetic before the decay is removed. The tooth is then rebuilt with tooth-coloured composite material and shaped to fit your bite. Most fillings are completed in a single appointment. When decay has already reached the nerve, a filling alone is not enough, and the dentist may recommend root canal treatment to try to keep the tooth.
How Often Should You Visit?
Most adults and children do well with a check-up and clean every six months, although your dentist may suggest a different interval depending on your oral health. Children can have their first visit by their first birthday. Early, easy appointments help them grow comfortable in the dental chair long before they ever need treatment.
Book Your Next Check-Up And Cleaning