Dental Check-Ups & Cleans Lockleys | Lockleys Dental Clinic

Your most important dental appointment

Regular check-ups and professional cleans are the foundation of good oral health. At Lockleys Dental Clinic, we make time for a thorough examination at every visit — not a quick glance and a polish. We want to understand the full picture of your oral health so we can give you the right advice and the right care.

Most adults benefit from a check-up and clean every six months, though your dentist will recommend a schedule based on your individual circumstances. If it has been a while since your last visit, there is no judgement here — we see all kinds of situations and we are here to help you get back on track.

What is included in your check-up

Comprehensive oral examination

Your dentist carefully examines each tooth for decay, cracks, wear, and other changes. We also assess your gums, the soft tissues of the mouth, your bite, and jaw joint — looking at the full picture, not just individual teeth.

Gum health assessment

Gum disease (periodontitis) is one of the most common dental conditions in Australia and is often painless in its early stages. We check the depth of the pockets around your teeth and advise you if any signs of gum disease need attention. Early intervention makes management much more straightforward.

Digital X-rays (when clinically needed)

Digital X-rays allow us to detect decay between teeth, changes in bone levels, and other issues that are not visible in a clinical examination. Our digital system produces sharp images at significantly lower radiation dose than traditional film X-rays. We take X-rays only when they add genuine clinical value — not as a routine for every single visit.

EMS AirFlow professional clean

Scale and clean with our dental hygienist, featuring EMS AirFlow technology. This system uses a controlled stream of pressurised water, air, and fine powder to gently and effectively remove plaque, staining, and biofilm — including from the gum line and between teeth where manual instruments alone may struggle to reach. It is particularly comfortable for patients with sensitive gums. Your teeth will feel noticeably clean and fresh afterwards.

Oral cancer screening

At every examination we carry out a systematic check of your soft tissues — tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, palate, and throat — for any signs that warrant further investigation. Early detection of oral mucosal changes is an important part of a thorough dental check-up.

Personalised care plan

Your appointment concludes with a clear discussion of what we found, what — if anything — needs to be treated, and the priority and cost of any recommended work. You will leave understanding your oral health, not guessing about it.

Health fund information

Lockleys Dental Clinic is a preferred provider for Bupa, NIB, and HCF health funds. Eligible members may receive reduced out-of-pocket costs for check-ups and cleans depending on their level of cover. We recommend contacting your fund before your appointment to understand your specific entitlements. Afterpay is also available for out-of-pocket costs.

Why regular check-ups matter

Decay caught early — before it needs a filling, crown, or root canal
Gum disease identified before it causes irreversible bone loss
Cracked teeth spotted before they fracture under pressure
Oral cancer screening as part of every examination
Professional clean removes build-up that home brushing cannot reach
Updated care plan so you always know where your dental health stands

Frequently asked questions

A standard check-up and clean typically takes between 45 and 60 minutes. New patients may need a little longer as we take a full medical and dental history at the first appointment. If X-rays are taken, allow a few extra minutes.

For most adults, every six months is a good guideline. Patients with higher risk of gum disease, a history of heavy decay, or other factors may benefit from more frequent visits. Your dentist will recommend a recall schedule based on your individual circumstances.

A traditional scale and clean uses ultrasonic scalers and hand instruments to remove calculus (tartar) from tooth surfaces. EMS AirFlow uses pressurised air, water, and fine powder particles to remove biofilm, staining, and soft deposits — including from areas below the gum line and between teeth. The two approaches are often used together. EMS AirFlow is generally more comfortable, particularly for patients with sensitive gums.

No — we take X-rays only when there is a clinical reason to do so. For most adults, a set of bitewing X-rays every one to two years is appropriate, but this depends on your individual decay risk and history. Your dentist will explain the reason for any X-ray before it is taken.

Yes — we offer HICAPS on-site for immediate health fund claims. As a preferred provider for Bupa, NIB, and HCF, eligible members may have reduced gaps. Bring your health fund card on the day and we will process your claim at the time of payment.

Dental Check-Ups & Cleans