Dental Check-up and Clean

What is a check-up and clean?

A dental check-up and clean is a routine visit where a dentist examines your teeth and gums for signs of decay and gum disease and removes plaque and tartar buildup. Most people should have these check-ups every six months, although your dentist may recommend a different frequency based on your needs.

During the check-up, the dentist may also take X-rays to detect issues not visible in a standard examination. The cleaning process includes scaling and polishing the teeth to eliminate plaque (a sticky film of bacteria) and tartar (hardened plaque that requires professional removal).

After cleaning, a fluoride treatment may be applied to protect against decay. Regular check-ups and cleanings are essential for maintaining good oral health and preventing serious dental problems in the future.

How often should i visit the dentist for a check-up and clean?

Visit the dentist for a check-up and cleaning at least every six months, especially if you have good oral health and a low risk of cavities and gum disease.

What happens if I need more than a check-up and clean?

If you need more than just a routine check-up and cleaning, our dentist will closely examine your needs. Based on your oral health, the dentist may suggest one or more of the following treatments:

• Fillings: If you have a cavity, the dentist will remove the decay and fill it with a dental filling.
• Root canal treatment: If your tooth’s pulp is infected or inflamed, the dentist may suggest a root canal to remove the infected tissue and save the tooth.
• Crowns and bridges: If you have a severely damaged or missing tooth, the dentist may recommend a crown or bridge to fix the function and look of your teeth.
• Teeth whitening: If your teeth are discoloured or stained, the dentist may recommend teeth whitening to brighten your smile.
• Orthodontic treatment: The dentist may suggest braces or aligners if you have misaligned teeth or a bad bite.
• Gum disease treatment: If you have gum disease, the dentist may recommend a deep cleaning or other treatments to improve your gum health.

The dentist will explain the treatment plan and any costs involved. They will work with you to create a personalised plan that fits your needs and goals.

Does a check-up and clean fix tooth pain?

A check-up and cleaning alone may not resolve tooth pain caused by cavities, infections, or gum disease. While cleaning removes plaque and tartar that can contribute to pain, it might not fix the root cause.

If you have tooth pain, schedule an appointment with your dentist promptly. They will identify the cause and suggest appropriate treatments, including fillings or root canals.

Additionally, tooth pain might indicate larger issues, such as sinusitis or TMJ disorders. The dentist may refer you to a specialist for further evaluation and treatment in such cases.

Does a check-up and clean fix tooth pain?

A check-up and cleaning alone may not resolve tooth pain caused by cavities, infections, or gum disease. While cleaning removes plaque and tartar that can contribute to pain, it might not fix the root cause.

If you have tooth pain, schedule an appointment with your dentist promptly. They will identify the cause and suggest appropriate treatments, including fillings or root canals.

Additionally, tooth pain might indicate larger issues, such as sinusitis or TMJ disorders. The dentist may refer you to a specialist for further evaluation and treatment.

Can I use my private health insurance to pay for my check-up and clean?

You can use private health insurance to cover your dental check-up and cleaning, but coverage and benefits vary significantly between plans. Reviewing your policy to understand what’s included and any out-of-pocket costs is crucial.

Amazing Smiles Dental is the preferred provider for significant health funds, but this may differ by location. Contact your nearest Amazing Smiles clinic to confirm if we accept your health fund.

In Australia, most private health insurance plans offer dental coverage as an optional extra, often requiring an additional premium. Some plans fully cover routine check-ups and cleans, while others only cover part of the cost.

Be aware that many plans also impose waiting periods before you can claim dental benefits, usually lasting several months post-enrollment.

If you have questions about your dental coverage or how to use your private health insurance for dental care, contact your nearest Amazing Smiles dental clinic or your insurance provider for guidance.

Can I use Medicare for dental?

Medicare generally does not cover routine dental check-ups and treatments for adults unless they are part of necessary medical care, like dental surgery in a hospital.

Medicare offers dental benefits through the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) for children. This program covers basic services like check-ups, x-rays, fillings, and extractions for eligible children aged 2 to 17, providing up to $1,132 over two years through participating private dentists.

To qualify, a child must be between 2 and 17, eligible for Medicare, and their family must receive certain government benefits, such as Family Tax Benefit Part A. The Department of Human Services assesses eligibility each year.

Not all dental treatments are covered under the CDBS, and out-of-pocket costs may apply. If you have questions about coverage or eligibility, contact your dentist or the Department of Human Services.

What are the risks of plaque and tartar accumulation?

Plaque and tartar buildup can seriously harm your oral health and lead to various dental issues. Here are the main risks:

• Tooth Decay (Cavities): Plaque is a sticky layer of bacteria that forms on teeth. These bacteria produce acids that can erode tooth enamel, resulting in cavities.
• Gum Disease (Gingivitis and Periodontitis): Plaque along the gumline can cause gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums. If untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, leading to gum recession, infected pockets, and tooth loss due to bone breakdown.
• Bad Breath (Halitosis): Bacteria in plaque and tartar produce gases that cause persistent bad breath.
• Staining and Discolouration: Tartar is a hardened form of plaque that can yellow or brown your teeth, leading to visible stains.
• Weakening of Tooth Structure: Plaque acids can weaken tooth structure, making teeth more prone to damage.
• Tooth Sensitivity: Buildup can expose tooth roots, increasing sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks.
• Impaired Appearance: Staining from tartar can negatively affect your smile and confidence.
• Difficulty in Cleaning: Tartar creates a rough surface on teeth, making it harder to clean effectively, leading to further plaque accumulation.

To avoid these risks, maintain good oral hygiene by brushing, flossing, and visiting your dentist regularly for professional cleanings. By controlling plaque and tartar buildup, you can protect your oral health and maintain a beautiful smile.

Can I remove plaque and tartar at home?

Avoid removing plaque and tartar at home with sharp tools like metal scrapers or needles. This can damage your teeth and gums and lead to infections.

Plaque is a sticky bacterial film that can harden into tartar, which cannot be removed by brushing or flossing alone. Tartar buildup can cause gum disease and tooth decay, requiring professional cleaning to remove.

Instead of attempting at-home removal, maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice daily, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings. Dentists have the proper tools and techniques to remove plaque and tartar safely and can advise on effective oral care practices.