Dental Exam, Dental Check-up in Brisbane

Visiting your dentist every six months is about more than just keeping your teeth clean. Regular appointments include an oral cancer screening, which, when problems are found early, can literally be life-saving.

Routine Dental Check-Up and Clean in Brisbane

A dental check-up and clean at Dental Nook Brisbane is a key part of looking after your long-term oral health. Each visit has two main components: a thorough examination and a professional clean. For some patients, cleaning the teeth first makes it easier to clearly assess all tooth surfaces.

During the examination, your dentist or hygienist carefully checks your teeth, gums and entire mouth for signs of issues such as tooth decay, gum disease or wear. They will also assess your risk of future problems and look over your cheeks, tongue, lips, face and neck for anything unusual.

The second stage is a professional cleaning, where plaque and tartar are gently removed, and your teeth are polished to help keep them smooth and easier to maintain at home.

When needed, your visit may also include dental X-rays so we can see areas that are not visible, such as between teeth or under old fillings, and make sure nothing important is being missed.

Research published in the Journal of Dental Research shows that people who have a professional clean at least every six months are far less likely to develop tooth decay or gum disease than those who visit the dentist irregularly. Regular scale and cleans were also linked with a reduced risk of serious general health problems, including heart disease and stroke. It’s a strong reminder that preventive care matters – keeping up with routine check-ups and cleans at Dental Nook can support both your oral health and your long-term overall wellbeing.

Dental examination, scale and cleaning at Dental Nook

Many people put off visiting the dentist, but regular dental visits are important for both your mouth and your general health. Conditions such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis and some autoimmune diseases can first show signs inside the mouth, so routine check-ups help pick up concerns early.

Even if you feel nothing is wrong, it is still important to keep up with your recall visits. Regular appointments help prevent small issues from developing into more serious problems and keep your smile in good condition.

With the right schedule of examinations and cleans, your Dental Nook dentist can detect early changes in your teeth, gums and jaw joints and recommend simple treatment before discomfort appears. Even with excellent home care, everyone still needs professional check-ups for long-term oral health.

Here are the main types of dental examinations we may carry out at Dental Nook Brisbane.

Comprehensive examination

A comprehensive exam looks at the overall health of your teeth, gums, bite and jaw joints. This visit usually includes:

An oral cancer screening
A review of your previous dental and medical history
Clinical photographs and, where required, dental X-rays

This type of exam is common for new patients or existing patients who have had a significant change in health or who have not seen a dentist for some time. Your dentist records the current condition of your teeth and supporting structures and may order further diagnostic tests if needed.

A full check-up at Dental Nook may include:

Assessment for tooth decay and worn or broken fillings
Review of crowns, veneers and other restorations
Gum disease screening
Bite and jaw joint assessment (TMJ)
Personalised advice on brushing, flossing and home care habits

If required, we will also discuss a step-by-step treatment plan that suits your goals, budget and timeline.

Periodic examination

A periodic exam is your regular recall visit, usually every six months. At this appointment, we:

Examine your teeth, gums and existing dental work
Screen again for signs of oral cancer
Review any recent X-rays or take new ones if they are due

The Australian Dental Association describes this type of visit as a review to look for any changes in your oral or general health since your last full check-up. If we notice anything unusual, we may recommend further tests or X-rays so we can treat problems early and conservatively.

Limited or problem-focused examination

A limited exam is focused on one main concern, such as a toothache, swelling, trauma or a chipped tooth. It is often used in emergency appointments.

During this visit, we:

Examine the specific tooth or area that is causing trouble
Take any necessary X-rays or tests related to that problem
Record the relevant dental and medical history

The aim is to quickly identify the cause of your symptoms and provide immediate relief, then plan any follow-up care you may need.

Whether you need a full comprehensive visit, a routine recall or help with a specific issue, the team at Dental Nook is here to keep your smile healthy, comfortable and well-cared for.

Radiographs and dental X-rays at Dental Nook

Dental X-rays (radiographs) are an important part of a thorough dental check-up at Dental Nook. They use very low levels of radiation to create detailed images of the teeth, roots and surrounding bone. These images help us pick up problems that are not visible, such as decay between teeth, infections or changes in the jawbone.

Your dentist may recommend one or more of the following X-rays:

Bitewing X-rays

Used to look for decay between the teeth and to monitor the height of the bone supporting the teeth.

Occlusal X-rays

Show the floor of the mouth or the palate and help us assess any unusual growths, extra teeth or other anatomical changes.

Panoramic X-rays

Capture the upper and lower jaws, jaw joints and surrounding structures in a single image, useful for planning treatment such as extractions or orthodontics.

Periapical X-rays

Focus on one or two teeth from root to crown so we can assess the root, surrounding bone and any infection or damage in detail.

These radiographs allow the Dental Nook team to diagnose issues early and plan treatment that keeps your mouth healthy and comfortable.

Six Signs You Need a Dental Check-Up

Even if you already see your dentist regularly, there are times when you shouldn’t wait for your next routine visit. If you notice any of the changes below, it is best to book a dental check-up at Dental Nook as soon as you can.

1. Bleeding After You Brush or Floss

Seeing blood in the basin after brushing or flossing is not normal and shouldn’t be ignored. Sometimes it can be due to brushing too hard, but persistent bleeding is often an early sign of gum disease and needs professional attention to prevent more serious problems.

Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth. When it is left untreated, it can lead to bone loss around the teeth and, over time, tooth loss.

2. Your Gums Are Receding

Gums naturally recede a little as we get older, but noticeable or uneven recession can point to gum disease or other issues. Exposed tooth roots are very sensitive and more prone to decay, infection, and discomfort.

If you have shrinking or thinning gums, even without pain, a check-up is important so we can protect these delicate areas and help you avoid future tooth loss.

3. Your Mouth Feels Dry

A healthy mouth stays comfortably moist thanks to saliva, which washes away food particles and helps neutralise acids produced by plaque. A constantly dry mouth is not just inconvenient – it can increase your risk of decay and infections.

If your mouth feels unusually dry or this symptom has appeared suddenly, book a visit so we can find out why and suggest the best way to manage it.

4. Your Teeth Feel Loose or Are Shifting

Adult teeth should stay firm for life. If a tooth feels wobbly or you notice gaps appearing where there were none before, it’s a warning sign that something is wrong. Infection, gum disease and bone loss are common causes.

Early assessment at Dental Nook allows us to stabilise your teeth and plan treatment before the condition progresses.

5. You Have Bumps or Sores in Your Mouth

Small ulcers, such as minor mouth ulcers or canker sores, are common and usually heal within a week or two. However, bumps, patches or sores that do not go away, keep returning, or look unusual need to be checked.

Certain fungal infections, like oral thrush, can show as white patches on the tongue, cheeks or roof of the mouth and require medication. Persistent or unexplained lesions may also need further investigation to rule out more serious conditions.

6. You’re Experiencing a Toothache

A toothache can come and go, and it’s tempting to wait for it to settle on its own. Pain in or around a tooth is always a sign that something is not right and should never be ignored.

The cause may be a cavity, a cracked tooth, an abscess, grinding, or another issue entirely. A timely dental check-up is the safest way to find the source of the problem and relieve your pain before it becomes an emergency.

What Happens During a Dental Check-Up and Clean?

A routine check-up and clean at Dental Nook Carindale is all about keeping your teeth and gums healthy, your smile bright, and catching problems before they become painful or costly.

1

Health history and discussion

Your visit usually begins with a quick update on your medical and dental history. This helps your dentist understand any changes in your general health, medications, or concerns that could affect your mouth.

2

Comprehensive dental examination

Your dentist will then carefully examine your teeth, gums and the soft tissues of your mouth, checking for:

Early signs of tooth decay
Gum inflammation or gum disease
Worn, cracked or loose teeth and existing restorations
Changes in your cheeks, tongue, palate and lips

This detailed assessment allows us to identify issues early and recommend the right treatment to keep your mouth healthy and comfortable.

3

Professional scale and clean

Once the examination is complete, your dentist or hygienist will carry out a thorough cleaning. This usually includes:

Gently scaling above and below the gum line to remove plaque and hardened tartar
Rinsing away debris and bacteria
Polishing the teeth to smooth the surface and help reduce future buildup
Flossing between the teeth for a final clean finish

A professional cleaning helps prevent gum disease, cavities and persistent bad breath, and leaves your teeth feeling smoother and fresher than brushing alone.

4

X-rays if needed

Depending on your age, risk factors and any symptoms you may have, your dentist might recommend dental X-rays. These low radiation images show areas that can’t be seen during a visual exam and can reveal:

Changes or damage in the jawbone
Impacted or poorly positioned teeth
Dental abscesses or infections
Cysts or tumours in the jaw area
Decay develops between teeth

Together, your examination, cleaning and any necessary X-rays give us a clear picture of your oral health and help us plan the best way to protect your smile long term.

How often should I have a dental check-up and clean

If your mouth is generally healthy, a check-up and professional cleaning every six months is usually ideal. If you are prone to tooth decay, gum problems or have ongoing dental concerns, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits to keep everything on track.

Book your dental check-up at Dental Nook

Looking after your teeth and gums plays a big role in protecting your overall health. Regular dental examinations help you stay ahead of problems and give you the reassurance that your smile is in good shape.

During your visit, your dentist can detect early signs of issues such as gum disease and tooth decay and recommend the right treatment before they become painful or complex.

At Dental Nook Carindale, our team is focused on helping you enjoy a confident, healthy smile. We provide a full range of care, including routine check-ups and cleans, teeth whitening, dental implants and crowns, tooth coloured fillings, digital X-rays, braces and clear aligner treatments.

If you are due for your next dental check-up, contact Dental Nook or book an appointment online and let us help you maintain the smile you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I book a routine dental check-up?

Most patients benefit from a check-up every six months. If you’re prone to gum disease or dental issues, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits.

What happens during a routine dental check-up at Dental Nook?

A check-up includes a full examination of your teeth and gums, digital X-rays if needed, and professional advice on maintaining oral health. Our Brisbane team makes sure you leave with a clear plan for your smile.

Do I need a dental check-up if I’m not in pain?

Yes. Many dental issues, such as cavities or gum disease, develop silently without symptoms. Regular check-ups allow us to detect problems early and prevent costly treatments later.

Is it worth travelling from nearby suburbs for a check-up?

Absolutely. Patients from whole Brisbane visit our clinic because of the convenience, easy parking, and trusted care. A short drive helps you avoid bigger dental problems in the future.

How long does a routine check-up usually take?

Most appointments take around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your needs. This makes it easy to fit into a busy schedule without disrupting your day.

Are routine dental check-ups covered by health funds?

Many health funds offer partial or full coverage for preventive check-ups. We can help check your policy and process claims directly at our Brisbane clinic.

What if I need treatment after my check-up?

If we find issues like cavities, gum problems, or enamel wear, we’ll discuss the options with you straight away. From simple fillings to specialist care, everything can be managed conveniently at our Brisbane practice.