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Your first dental visit
A check-up is a short visit. The dentist looks at your mouth, finds problems early and tells you when to come back.
This is general information, not a diagnosis. It does not replace a check by a dentist or doctor. If you are worried, contact a dental professional.
What happens at a check-up
- The dentist looks at your teeth, gums and mouth.
- They ask about your health and any mouth problems you have had.
- They talk with you about food, smoking, alcohol and how you clean your teeth.
- Sometimes they take X-rays. Not every visit needs them.
How often should I go?
There is no single rule. Your dentist decides based on how healthy your mouth is. The gap can be from 3 months to 2 years. For under-18s it is up to 1 year.
Children's first visit
Take your child when their first baby teeth come through, or before their first birthday. Keep it calm and positive. Just opening the mouth for a quick look is good practice.
Tips for the day
- Bring a list of your medicines.
- Tell the team if you feel nervous or need extra support.
- Ask questions. You can ask what each step is for.
When to see a dentist
- You have not had a check-up for 2 years (1 year if you are under 18).
- You have pain, bleeding gums or a problem between visits. You do not need to wait for your next check-up.
Related: Oral health basics · Children's teeth
Sources
Paraphrased in plain words. Links checked and accessed 21 Oct 2026.
- NHS (UK). “Dental check-ups”. https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-teeth-and-gums/dental-check-ups/ (accessed 21 Oct 2026).
- NHS (UK). “Children's teeth”. https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-teeth-and-gums/taking-care-of-childrens-teeth/ (accessed 21 Oct 2026).
- ADA MouthHealthy. “X-rays”. https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/x-rays (accessed 21 Oct 2026).
- Oral Health Foundation. “Dental care for people with special needs”. https://www.dentalhealth.org/dental-care-for-people-with-special-needs (accessed 21 Oct 2026).