Check-up and clean · what to expect
What happens at a dental check-up and clean?
At a check-up and clean at Y3 Smiles Dental in Broadmeadows, we review your medical history, examine your teeth, gums and mouth, take photos and x-rays as needed, then clean away plaque and tartar and apply fluoride. Before you leave, we explain what we found and your plan.
Before you come in
If it's your first visit, arrive about 15 minutes early so there's time to check in. Brush and floss as normal beforehand, and jot down any questions or anything you've noticed, like sensitivity, jaw clicking or bleeding gums.
Bring:
- Your health fund card, if you have one
- A list of any medicines you take
- Previous dental records or x-rays, if you have them
- Any patient forms we've sent you, filled in
Step by step: your appointment
Welcome and check-in
Our reception team greets you and helps with any paperwork.
A chat about your health
Your dentist asks about your dental history, any changes to your health or medicines, and anything that's worrying you.
The examination
A careful look at your teeth, gums, tongue and the soft tissues of your mouth. This includes screening for oral cancer, checking your bite and existing fillings, and measuring the gum around your teeth to assess gum health.
Photos and x-rays, as needed
Intraoral photos let you see what the dentist sees. X-rays show things that aren't visible, like decay between teeth and the bone level.
The scale and clean
Plaque and hard tartar are removed from above and just below the gum line, using an ultrasonic scaler that vibrates and sprays water, and fine hand instruments. Then your teeth are polished to lift surface stains.
Fluoride
A fluoride treatment is applied to help strengthen your teeth.
Your results and plan
We explain what we found, show you on the photos or x-rays, and give you a personalised plan and quote for anything that needs attention.
Does a scale and clean hurt?
Professional cleans are generally comfortable. You'll hear the scaler and feel vibration and cool water. If it's been a while since your last clean, or your gums are inflamed, you may feel some sensitivity or notice a little bleeding. Tell us and we can slow down, take breaks or use a numbing gel to make it more comfortable.
Why does the dentist measure my gums?
A small, blunt probe measures the tiny gap between each tooth and the gum. Healthy gums fit snugly. Deeper pockets and bleeding are signs of gum disease, which is often painless early on. Measuring lets us catch it and track it over time.
What if you find a problem?
Nothing is done without your agreement. We explain what we found, why it matters, the options including waiting, and the costs. Urgent problems are prioritised, and the rest can be planned around you. See check-up costs for fees, or read about the check-up and clean itself.
What if I'm nervous?
Lots of people feel anxious about the dentist, especially after a long gap. Tell us when you book. We'll go at your pace, explain everything before we do it, and agree on a signal to stop. Our nervous patients page has more.
Other questions people ask
Should I brush before my appointment?
Yes, brush and floss as normal before you come in.
Will I need x-rays every time?
No. X-rays are taken as necessary, depending on your history and what the dentist needs to see.
Can I bring my children to the same appointment?
Let us know when you book and we can try to arrange family appointments close together.
Can I eat straight after my clean?
Your dentist will tell you if you should wait a little while after the fluoride treatment before eating or drinking.
What if I feel anxious in the chair?
Tell us when you book and again when you arrive. We'll explain each step first, go at your pace, and stop whenever you need.