A general dental check up is one of the simplest ways to stay on top of your oral health. It's a chance to catch small changes early, before they turn into bigger, more involved treatments.
So what actually happens during a check up, how often do you need one, and what affects the cost? Here's a plain-English breakdown, drawn from current Australian dental guidance.
What Happens During a General Dental Check Up?
A general dental check up is a full look at your teeth, gums, and mouth. Your dentist checks for early signs of decay, gum disease, and other changes that aren't always easy to spot yourself.
A typical visit includes:
- A review of your dental and medical history — this helps your dentist understand any conditions or medications that could affect your treatment or oral health.
- An exam of your teeth, gums, tongue, and jaw — a thorough look helps catch early signs of decay, gum changes, or other issues before they progress.
- X-rays, if your dentist thinks they're needed — these can reveal problems between teeth or below the gum line that aren't visible during a standard exam.
- A clean and polish to remove plaque and tartar — this clears buildup that brushing and flossing at home can't fully reach, especially around the gum line.
- A fluoride treatment to help strengthen your teeth — this supports the outer layer of your teeth and may help make them more resistant to decay.
- Advice on brushing, flossing, and diet — tailored to your own mouth, since everyone's risk factors and habits are a little different.
Most check ups take around 40 minutes, though a first visit with a new dentist may take closer to an hour while they build a full picture of your dental history.
How Often Should You Book a General Dental Check Up?
For years, the standard advice was every six months. That's still a reasonable starting point for many people. But 2025 research from Deakin University, based on Cochrane review evidence, found that risk-based scheduling worked just as well as fixed six-month visits for most adults.
In other words, your ideal frequency depends on your own oral health, not a one-size-fits-all rule. As a general guide:
A dentist can help you work out where you sit and build a schedule around your own needs, rather than defaulting to a generic timeline.
What Affects the Cost of a General Dental Check Up?
Cost is one of the most common reasons people put off booking. A 2026 industry report found that almost four in ten Australian adults delay dental visits over cost concerns.
A few things influence what you'll pay:
- Whether you're seen at a public or private clinic (public clinics can have long wait lists)
- Whether X-rays or extra treatment are needed on the day
- Your private health insurance cover or finance options, if you have any
- For eligible children, the Child Dental Benefits Scheme (CDBS), which covers basic services at low or no cost
It's worth checking with your insurer or clinic beforehand so you know what's covered.
