Regular Dental Check-Ups: What We Check & Why It Saves You Money

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I have a dental check-up?

For most adults, every six months works well. If you have healthy teeth and gums and a low risk of decay, your dentist may stretch it to once a year. People with gum disease, a history of decay or conditions like diabetes are often seen more frequently.

Do I still need a check-up if nothing hurts?

Yes. Most dental problems cause no pain until they are advanced. Decay between teeth, early gum disease and cracked fillings are usually silent, and a check-up is designed to find them before they start to hurt — which is also when they are cheapest to fix.

What is the difference between a check-up and a clean?

A check-up is the examination — the dentist inspects your teeth, gums and soft tissues and may take X-rays. A clean, or scale and polish, removes hardened plaque a toothbrush cannot reach. The two are usually done in the same visit.

At what age should my child have their first check-up?

We recommend a first visit by around their first birthday, or within six months of the first tooth appearing. Early visits are short and gentle, help spot problems while they are small, and let your child get comfortable with the dentist before any treatment is ever needed.