General Dentistry
Dental Checkups in Wellington
A routine examination is the cheapest dentistry you will ever have, because it catches problems while they are still small.
A checkup is a full look at your teeth, gums and soft tissues, usually with x-rays and a professional clean. Most decay and gum disease causes no pain in its early stages, which is exactly when it is easiest and least expensive to treat. By the time a tooth hurts, the options are usually more involved.
What happens at a checkup
A look at your history
We ask about any pain or sensitivity, changes since your last visit, and your general health, since some medical conditions and medications affect your teeth and gums.
Examination
We check each tooth for decay, cracks and wear, examine existing fillings and crowns, assess your gums, and check your bite. We also look at the soft tissues of your mouth, tongue and throat.
X-rays where needed
X-rays show what an examination cannot: decay between teeth, bone levels around the roots, and problems below the gumline. How often you need them depends on your risk, not a fixed schedule.
Clean and plan
A scale and polish removes hardened plaque that brushing cannot shift. If anything needs treatment, you get the findings and a written estimate before you decide.
How often should you come in?
Every six to twelve months suits most adults. If you have active gum disease, a high decay rate, a dry mouth, or you smoke, we may suggest coming more often — and if your teeth and gums are stable, less often may be reasonable. It is a judgement based on your mouth rather than a rule.
Children and teenagers under 18 are generally eligible for free basic dental care in New Zealand. See kids dentistry for how that works.
Related: teeth cleaning and hygiene, dental fillings, and our fees.
Book an appointment
We are open seven days, 8:00am – 8:30pm, at 100 Riddiford Street, Newtown, with free onsite parking.