Dental check-up: what to expect
A routine dental check-up helps protect your oral health by catching concerns early and keeping your smile on track. Whether it has been six months or longer since your last visit, here’s what to expect at Aspen Dental and what your checkup may include.
Key Takeaways
A dental check-up includes an exam, X-rays as needed, a follow-up cleaning and an oral cancer screening
Costs vary, and many insurance plans cover preventive visits at or near 100%
Most people benefit from a check-up every six months
Regular visits help prevent cavities, gum disease and other oral health issues
What is a dental check-up?
A dental check-up is a preventive visit where your care team reviews the health of your teeth, gums and mouth. These visits help spot early signs of concerns like cavities, gum disease or changes in your bite. Most people benefit from having a check-up every six months.
What happens during a dental check-up?
A dental check up follows a set of steps that help your care team understand your oral health and guide your next phase in your care.
Medical and dental history review
Your care team will ask about current medications, recent health changes and any dental concerns or symptoms you want to discuss.
Dental exam
Your teeth and gums are checked for cavities, cracks, wear, inflammation or signs of infection. Your bite and any existing dental work are reviewed as well.
Digital x-rays (If needed)
X-rays may be taken every 6–24 months depending on your needs. They help your care team see areas not visible during the exam, such as hidden cavities, bone loss, impacted teeth or infection.
Oral cancer screening
Your care team checks your tongue, cheeks, throat and soft tissues for any signs of abnormalities.
Hygiene services (If needed)
Based on your oral health, your care team may recommend hygiene services like polishing or fluoride treatment, which are usually scheduled at a follow-up visit.
Treatment planning
If anything needs attention, your care team will explain your options, discuss what is most urgent and review costs and insurance coverage to help you plan with confidence.
How much does a dental check-up cost?
A dental check-up cost can vary based on your oral health needs and whether you are a new or returning patient. Factors that may affect your cost include the number of X-rays needed, the type of exam performed and any hygiene services added to your care plan. Your care team will review these details with you before treatment begins so you know what to expect.
Save today on dental exams near me
New patients without insurance can receive an exam and X-rays for $29. This visit gives your care team the information they need to understand your oral health and recommend next steps.
¹For new patients that do not have dental insurance. New patients must be 21 or older to receive $29 exam and X-rays, a minimum $80 value; the value of the savings will vary based on doctor recommendation. Offer expires 12/31/26.
How often should you get a dental check-up?
Most people benefit from a dental check up every six months, but your care team will guide you on the schedule that best supports your oral health.
Why regular dental check-ups are important
Routine dental check-ups support both your oral health and your overall well-being in meaningful ways.
Catch problems early
Regular visits help your care team spot concerns sooner.
Preserve your natural teeth
Check-ups help protect your teeth and support gum health.
Improve overall health
Oral health plays an important role in your overall well-being.
How long does a dental check-up take?
A dental check-up usually takes 45 to 60 minutes, depending on your oral health and whether X-rays are needed. New patients may need 60 to 90 minutes for a full evaluation and X-rays. Most people can expect to be in and out within an hour.
What’s included in the time:
Exam: 10–15 minutes
Oral cancer screening: 1–2 minutes
X-rays (if needed): 10–20 minutes
Hygiene services (if needed, usually at a follow-up visit): 30–45 minutes
Treatment discussion: 5–10 minutes
“My dentist is amazing, with a personality that put me at ease immediately. She’s the dentist I always hoped for but never met.”
JT B.
Westminister, CO
Dental check-up FAQs
What happens if I skip my routine dental check-ups?
Skipping routine dental check ups can make it harder to catch early signs of cavities, gum concerns or other oral health issues. Even if your teeth feel fine, some problems develop quietly over time. Regular visits help your care team stay ahead of changes in your smile.
Are dental check-ups covered by insurance?
Most dental insurance plans fully or mostly cover routine dental check ups, including exams, X-rays and dental cleaning. Your care team can review your benefits with you before treatment begins.
What’s the difference between a dental check-up and a dental exam?
A dental check-up is the full preventive visit, which may include an exam, X-rays, hygiene services and an oral cancer screening. A dental exam is one part of that visit and focuses on the health of your teeth, gums and mouth.
Will I need to do anything to prepare for a dental exam?
Is a dental check-up the same as a cleaning?
Not always. A dental check-up may include hygiene services like polishing, but a full preventive cleaning is usually a separate visit with a hygienist. Your care team will recommend the right next steps based on your oral health.
Can dental anxiety affect my check-up?
Yes, and it’s completely normal. If you feel dental anxiety, let your care team know. They can explain each step, check in with you as they go or adjust the pace to help you feel at ease.