Check Up and Clean
Dental Check-Ups and Cleans at Ferny Hills Dental
Regular dental check-ups and professional cleaning play a vital role in maintaining healthy teeth and gums at every stage of life. At Ferny Hills Dental, we believe prevention is the most powerful form of treatment. That’s why we place such strong emphasis on thorough examinations and gentle scale and cleans to help you avoid more complex procedures down the track.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for your routine check-up, we’re here to make sure you feel informed, comfortable, and confident in your care.
Why Are Check-Ups So Important?
Dental problems don’t always cause pain in their early stages. Cavities, gum disease, and even infections can often develop quietly over time — which is why regular monitoring is so important.
A comprehensive check-up allows your dentist to:
- Detect signs of decay, gum disease, or wear before symptoms arise
- Monitor restorations like fillings or crowns for signs of breakdown
- Examine the health of soft tissues in your mouth
- Track jaw alignment and bite changes
- Provide early intervention to prevent further damage
The goal isn’t just to fix problems — it’s to stop them from happening altogether. Regular check-ups give you the best chance of protecting your natural teeth for life.
What Happens at a Routine Dental Check-Up?
At Ferny Hills Dental, your check-up is tailored to your individual needs, but typically includes:
- Comprehensive Examination
We assess your teeth, gums, jaw joints, bite alignment, and soft tissues to check for early signs of issues. - Digital X-Rays (if needed)
These help us detect decay, infections, bone loss, or problems that may not be visible to the naked eye. - Scale and Clean
Our team gently removes plaque, tartar, and surface stains that brushing and flossing alone can’t reach. - Fluoride Treatment
A concentrated fluoride solution is applied to help strengthen tooth enamel and reduce your risk of decay. - Personalised Advice
We provide tips on brushing technique, flossing, dietary habits, and product recommendations tailored to your needs. - Treatment Plan (if required)
If any concerns are identified, we’ll discuss the next steps and answer your questions, without pressure or obligation.
How Often Should I Have a Check-Up?
Most people benefit from a check-up and clean every 6 months, but this may vary depending on your oral health status. Patients with gum disease, a history of decay, or existing restorations may need more frequent reviews. Your dentist will recommend a recall schedule that’s right for you.
Consistency is key — regular maintenance helps catch problems early, minimises the need for complex treatment, and keeps your teeth and gums in optimal condition.
Cleaning: More Than Just Aesthetic
Professional cleaning (also known as scaling and prophylaxis) goes beyond surface polish. It’s a clinical procedure designed to:
- Remove tartar (calculus) that can lead to gum disease
- Reduce inflammation and bleeding of the gums
- Prevent bad breath associated with bacterial build-up
- Polish enamel to remove superficial stains from coffee, tea, or red wine
This process helps reduce your risk of developing periodontal (gum) disease — a leading cause of tooth loss in adults — and keeps your mouth feeling fresh and healthy.
Looking After Your Teeth Between Visits
While professional care is essential, your daily oral hygiene habits make a huge difference in keeping your smile healthy. We recommend:
- Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Flossing at least once per day
- Drinking water regularly, especially after meals
- Minimising sugary snacks and acidic drinks
- Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and replacing it every 3 months
Our team is always happy to guide you on the right tools and techniques to suit your age, oral health, and preferences.
Making Dental Care More Accessible
At Ferny Hills Dental, we aim to remove the barriers to maintaining great oral health. We are:
- Preferred providers for Medibank, BUPA, NIB, HCF, TUH and CBHS, helping you get the most from your cover
- Supportive of gap-free check-ups and cleans for patients with sufficient benefits through their health fund
- Supportive of families through CDBS bulk billing for eligible children aged 2–17
- Proud to offer Zip Pay for flexible payment options if additional care is required
If you’re unsure about your eligibility or coverage, our friendly reception team is happy to assist.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I visit the dentist for a check-up?
Most people benefit from a visit every 6 months. Your dentist may recommend more frequent reviews depending on your individual needs.
Are check-ups and cleans covered by health funds?
Yes, if you have extras cover, most health funds contribute towards check-ups, cleans, and X-rays. We’re preferred providers for many major funds.
Is a professional clean really necessary if I brush and floss well?
Yes. Even with excellent home care, tartar can build up in hard-to-reach areas and must be removed professionally to prevent gum disease.
Will the clean hurt?
Our team is gentle and uses techniques that minimise discomfort. Let us know if you’re sensitive — we’ll take extra care to ensure you’re comfortable.
Can children have check-ups and cleans?
Absolutely. Regular check-ups from age 2 onwards are recommended. We bulk bill eligible children under the CDBS scheme.
What should I do between visits to keep my mouth healthy?
Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, reduce sugar intake, and visit us regularly for maintenance and early detection.