Dentist Appointments: What Happens at a Check-Up and How to Prepare

Booking

When you call or book online, say whether it is a routine check-up and cleaning, a first visit as a new patient, or a specific problem such as pain or a broken tooth — each may need a different amount of time. Ask whether the office takes your dental insurance, and what you’ll pay if you don’t have coverage.

What usually happens at a check-up

According to MedlinePlus and the American Dental Association’s MouthHealthy site, a routine visit commonly includes:

1. Medical history review — the dentist or hygienist asks about your health and medicines.
2. Exam — checking teeth and gums, and screening for oral cancer by looking and feeling for unusual lumps in the mouth, lips and tongue, and sometimes the face and neck.
3. Cleaning — a hygienist removes plaque and tartar. It may be uncomfortable but is usually not painful.
4. X-rays on some visits — depending on the health of your teeth and how long since your last exam. MedlinePlus notes the radiation dose is very low, but X-rays are generally not recommended during pregnancy unless it is an emergency.
5. Discussion — the dentist explains any problems and treatment options. Treatment such as a filling is often booked as a separate appointment.

What to tell the team

• All medicines you take and any health conditions.
• If you are or might be pregnant.
• Any anxiety about dental care — many practices can explain each step or offer breaks.
• Problems you have noticed: sensitivity, bleeding gums, pain when chewing.

What to bring

Insurance card, photo ID, a list of medicines, and contact details for your previous dentist if you want records transferred.

Children’s first visit

MouthHealthy says a baby’s first dental visit should happen after the first tooth appears, but no later than the first birthday. The dentist checks for problems and gives tips for daily care. For orthodontic timing, see orthodontist consultations.

Dental emergencies

For severe pain, swelling, a knocked-out tooth or injury, call your dentist straight away — many reserve time for urgent cases. If swelling comes with trouble breathing, call 911 — MedlinePlus lists trouble breathing among problems that need emergency care.