What happens during a dental check-up
A check-up usually follows the same steps at most clinics (ADA, NHS):
- Health history. The dentist asks about your general health, medicines and any problems with your teeth or gums since your last visit.
- Examination. The dentist checks every tooth, existing fillings and crowns, your gums and the soft tissues of your mouth.
- Gum check. The dentist or hygienist looks for signs of gum disease, such as bleeding or swelling.
- Oral cancer screening. The dentist examines your tongue, the inside of your mouth, your jaw and neck.
- X-rays, if needed. The dentist decides whether you need X-rays, based on your oral health and when you last had them.
- Advice and next visit. You get advice on brushing, diet and smoking, and a date for your next check-up.
What happens during a teeth cleaning (scale and polish)
A professional cleaning removes what brushing at home cannot (Cleveland Clinic):
- Scaling: the dentist or hygienist removes plaque and tartar with special instruments, often including an ultrasonic (vibrating) scaler.
- Polishing: the teeth are polished with a soft rubber cup and a special paste.
- Fluoride (optional): a fluoride treatment may be offered to strengthen the teeth.
Most cleanings take 30 to 60 minutes.
Why tartar needs a professional cleaning
Plaque that is not removed by brushing and flossing hardens into tartar, above and below the gum line. Brushing cannot remove tartar, and only a dentist or hygienist can remove it safely. Left in place, tartar can lead to red, swollen or bleeding gums (gingivitis) and, over time, gum disease and receding gums (Cleveland Clinic).
How often should you have a dental check-up and cleaning?
There is no single schedule for everyone. Many dentists recommend a check-up every six months (MedlinePlus). The NHS says the interval should depend on your oral health (NHS):
| Who | Typical check-up interval |
|---|---|
| Adults with good oral health | Every 12 to 24 months |
| Adults with gum disease, frequent cavities or other risks | More often, as short as every 3 months |
| Children and teenagers under 18 | At least once a year |
| Common recommendation from many dentists | Every 6 months |
You may need visits more often if you have gum disease, frequent cavities, smoke, are pregnant or have a condition such as diabetes (MedlinePlus). Your dentist will set the right interval for you.
Dental check-ups for children
A child's first dental visit should be after the first tooth appears, and no later than the first birthday (ADA). Children often receive fluoride treatment more often than adults, and dental sealants are mostly used for children and teenagers (MedlinePlus).
Does a dental cleaning hurt?
Scaling should not hurt, though you may hear scraping or vibration. Afterwards your teeth may feel sensitive or your gums slightly sore for a few days (Cleveland Clinic). If you have sensitive teeth, tell your dentist before the cleaning starts.
Is a dental check-up covered by insurance in the UAE?
It depends on your plan. Dubai's basic mandatory health plan, the Essential Benefits Plan, excludes routine dental treatment (DHA table of benefits). Check-ups and cleaning are usually covered only by enhanced plans or plans with a dental benefit. The quickest way to know is to ask your clinic to check with your insurer before the visit.
At Ibn Al Haitham Medical Centre we work with Daman, Enaya, Dubai Police, Neuron, Almadallah, Nextcare, RTA and Aetna, and accept more insurers than these. Send a photo of your insurance card on WhatsApp to +971 55 172 5757 and our team will confirm what your plan covers. See our insurance page, or our guide to what UAE health insurance covers for dental.
Signs you should see a dentist before your next check-up
- Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
- Red or swollen gums
- Pain or sensitivity to hot, cold or sweet food
- A broken tooth, filling or crown
- Bad breath that does not go away
Dental check-ups at Ibn Al Haitham Medical Centre
Ibn Al Haitham Medical Centre has provided dental care in Umm Hurrair, Dubai, since 2000. A check-up at the clinic includes a full examination, a gum health assessment and a written treatment plan, explained in Arabic or English, with scaling and polishing. General dentistry is led by Dr. Aamra Alsarraj, General Dentist (DHA licence 00240184-001). Read more about general dentistry at our clinic or our guide to dental implants step by step.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I have a dental check-up?
It depends on your oral health. Many dentists recommend every six months, and the NHS sets intervals from 3 months to 2 years for adults and up to 1 year for children.
How long does a teeth cleaning take?
Most professional cleanings take 30 to 60 minutes.
Can I remove tartar at home?
No. Brushing and flossing remove plaque, but tartar can only be removed safely by a dentist or hygienist.
When should my child first see a dentist?
After the first tooth appears, and no later than the first birthday.
Is a dental check-up covered by insurance in Dubai?
Dubai's basic Essential Benefits Plan excludes routine dental treatment, but many enhanced plans cover check-ups and cleaning. Ask your clinic to check your plan with your insurer before your visit.
Sources
- Dental check-ups — NHS
- Common questions about going to the dentist — ADA MouthHealthy
- Your baby's first dental visit — ADA MouthHealthy
- Dental exam — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine
- What happens during a dental cleaning — Cleveland Clinic
- Tartar on teeth (dental calculus) — Cleveland Clinic
- Essential Benefits Plan table of benefits — Dubai Health Authority (ISAHD)