What a check-up actually involves

The examination

We check every tooth surface for decay, cracks and failing fillings. We measure the gum around each tooth, because that number is what separates reversible inflammation from bone loss. We check the bite and the jaw joint for the wear pattern that comes with grinding.

We also examine the soft tissues — tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, throat. Oral cancer screening is part of an ordinary check-up, and it is the part nobody notices happening.

Why the X-rays

Decay between teeth is invisible to the eye until it is large. By the time you can see a shadow from the outside, it is usually well into the tooth. A bitewing X-ray shows it while it is still small and simple to fix.

We take them when they are clinically needed, not automatically, and we explain what we are looking for.

The clean is not a polish

Plaque that has been left long enough hardens into calculus, which is mineralised and cannot be brushed off at any pressure. Removing it is what a scale does. The polish afterwards smooths the surface so plaque takes longer to build up again.

Fluoride at the end strengthens the enamel surface, and helps with sensitivity for a while.

And then the honest bit

You should leave knowing what, if anything, needs doing, what it will cost, and what happens if you leave it. “Watch it” is a legitimate answer and we use it often — not everything found needs treating today.

Booking one

Our examination, scale and clean and fluoride is $199, for new and existing patients. X-rays aren’t included in the $199 check-up; if you need them, we’ll quote first. Eligible fund members often have no gap; eligible children are bulk billed. See check-ups and cleans.