Checkup & Clean

The Foundation of a Healthy Smile

Regular dental check-ups and professional cleaning are the most important steps you can take to maintain your oral health. At Whitehorse Dental, we recommend visiting us every six months to stay on top of your dental care and catch any potential issues before they become serious — and costly — problems.

What's Included in Your Visit

Your check-up and clean appointment includes a comprehensive examination of your teeth, gums, and oral tissues. Your dentist will check for signs of decay, gum disease, wear, cracks, and other conditions. We use digital X-rays when needed, which provide detailed images with significantly less radiation than traditional film X-rays, allowing us to detect problems hidden beneath the surface.

After your examination, our dental hygienist will perform a professional scale and clean to remove plaque and tartar build-up that accumulates even with diligent home care. We finish with a fluoride treatment to strengthen your enamel and provide additional protection against decay. You'll leave with a fresh, clean feeling and personalised oral hygiene advice to keep your smile healthy between visits.

Why Regular Visits Matter

Many dental conditions develop slowly and without obvious symptoms. By the time you notice a toothache or sensitivity, the underlying problem may already be advanced. Regular six-monthly visits allow us to detect issues at their earliest stage, when treatment is simpler, less invasive, and more affordable.

Your Check-Up Includes

  • Comprehensive examination of teeth, gums, and soft tissues
  • Digital X-rays for early detection (as needed)
  • Professional scale and clean to remove plaque and tartar
  • Fluoride treatment for enamel protection
  • Oral cancer screening
  • Personalised oral hygiene advice and home care tips
  • Discussion of any findings and recommended treatment

Don't wait until something hurts. Investing in regular check-ups and cleans is the most effective way to protect your teeth, maintain your gums, and avoid unexpected dental emergencies down the track.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a dental check-up include a clean?

In many Australian clinics, a check-up and clean are offered together, but it's best to confirm with your dentist. At Whitehorse Dental, most of the time when patients request to book in for a clean, a dental check up is also done.

What is included in a dentist check-up?

A typical dental check-up includes a comprehensive examination of your teeth, gums, jaw, and bite. It may also involve X-rays to detect hidden issues and an oral cancer screening.

What do most dentists charge for a cleaning?

The cost of a dental clean in Australia varies but generally ranges from $180 to $300, depending on the clinic, your oral condition, and whether extras like fluoride or deep scaling are needed.

Is a cleaning included in a dental exam?

Not always. Some clinics offer check-up and clean as a bundled service, while others treat them separately. Always check ahead of time to avoid surprises.

Why is a dental cleaning so expensive?

Dental cleans involve specialised equipment, professional expertise, and infection control protocols. They also play a critical role in preventing more serious (and costly) dental issues.

How much does it cost to clean all your teeth?

A full-mouth scale and clean typically costs between $180 and $300 in Australia. Deep cleans or periodontal treatments may cost more depending on the severity of plaque and gum disease.

Is dental cleaning considered routine?

Yes, dental cleaning is a routine preventive service that should be done every six months to maintain oral health and prevent decay or gum disease.

Is teeth cleaning considered dental treatment?

Yes. While it's preventive in nature, a professional teeth cleaning is a formal dental treatment that helps manage plaque, tartar, and gum health.

Can children have a dental check-up and clean?

Yes, children should have their first dental visit by age one, then every six months after their adult teeth start coming in. Early visits promote lifelong healthy habits.

How long does a check-up and clean take?

The appointment typically takes 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your oral health and whether any X-rays or extra assessments are needed.

Ready for Your Best Smile?

Our friendly team at Whitehorse Dental is here to help you achieve the healthy, confident smile you deserve.