Dental Check-ups in London
Keep your smile healthy with regular dental examinations. Find NHS check-ups from £27.40 or private appointments from £50. Book your routine check-up today.
What Is a Dental Check-up?
A comprehensive oral health examination designed to catch problems early and keep your smile healthy.
Comprehensive Oral Examination
A dental check-up is a routine examination of your teeth, gums, and mouth by a qualified dentist. It's your first line of defence against dental problems.
Regular check-ups help catch problems early when they're easier and cheaper to treat, preventing the need for more complex procedures later.
Visual Examination
Thorough inspection of teeth for decay, damage, or wear
Gum Health Assessment
Check for signs of gum disease and periodontal issues
Oral Cancer Screening
Routine screening that can save lives through early detection
Why Regular Check-ups Matter
Prevention is better than cure. Regular dental check-ups offer these key benefits:
Early Detection
Catch problems before they become serious
Cost Savings
Preventive care costs less than emergency treatment
Gum Disease Prevention
Monitor and prevent periodontal issues
Oral Cancer Screening
Routine checks can save lives
Fresh Breath
Professional cleaning removes plaque and tartar
Personalised Advice
Tailored oral hygiene recommendations
What Happens During a Check-up?
Your dental check-up typically takes 20-30 minutes and follows these comprehensive steps:
Medical History Review
Update any health changes, medications, or concerns since your last visit.
Visual Examination
Thorough check of teeth, gums, tongue, and soft tissues for any signs of problems.
X-rays (if needed)
Digital X-rays to detect hidden decay, bone loss, or other issues not visible to the eye.
Gum Assessment
Measure gum pockets and check for signs of periodontal disease.
Oral Cancer Screening
Examine mouth, throat, neck, and lymph nodes for any abnormalities.
Discussion & Treatment Plan
Review findings, answer questions, and provide personalised oral hygiene advice.
What to Expect
Most check-ups are quick and painless. Your dentist will explain each step and address any concerns. If issues are found, you'll receive a clear treatment plan with all options explained.
Check-up Pricing: NHS vs Private
Compare NHS and private dental check-up costs in London:
| Treatment | NHS Price | Private Price |
|---|---|---|
| Routine Check-up | £27.40 (Band 1) | £50-£150 |
| Check-up with X-rays | £27.40 (Band 1) | £70-£180 |
| Check-up with Scale & Polish | £75.30 (Band 2) | £80-£200 |
| Emergency Examination | £27.40 (Band 1) | £50-£150 |
| Child Check-up (under 18) | FREE | £30-£80 |
| Pregnant Women Check-up | FREE | £50-£150 |
NHS prices valid from April 2024. Private prices are typical London ranges.
NHS vs Private Check-ups
Both NHS and private check-ups offer high-quality care. Here's how they compare:
NHS Check-up
- Band 1 fixed price: £27.40
- Free for under-18s and pregnant women
- Same clinical standards as private
- May have longer waiting times
- Standard examination time
- Limited cosmetic advice
Private Check-up
- Price: £50-£150
- Usually shorter waiting times
- Longer appointment slots available
- Extended consultation time
- Comprehensive cosmetic options
- Evening and weekend availability
Who Should Get Regular Check-ups?
Regular dental check-ups are important for everyone, regardless of age or health status.
Adults
Every 6-24 months (dentist advised)
Children
Every 6-12 months
Pregnant Women
Dental care is free during pregnancy
Diabetics
More frequent monitoring recommended
Smokers
Higher risk - more regular checks advised
Those with Braces
Monthly or as advised
Free NHS Dental Care Eligibility
- Under 18 (or under 19 in full-time education)
- Pregnant or had baby in last 12 months
- Receiving qualifying benefits (Universal Credit, etc.)
- Low income (HC2/HC3 certificate)
How Often Should You Visit the Dentist?
The NHS recommends dental check-ups every 3-24 months, depending on your individual needs. Your dentist will assess your oral health and advise how often you should return.
Factors that affect check-up frequency:
- Current oral health status
- History of dental problems
- Gum disease risk
- Lifestyle factors (smoking, diet)
- Age and medical conditions
Most adults benefit from check-ups every 6-12 months. Children, those with gum disease, or high-risk patients may need more frequent visits.
Find Dental Practices Near You
CQC-registered dental practices in London offering routine check-ups:
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Dental Check-ups by London Borough
Find dental practices offering routine check-ups in your area.
Westminster
45 dental practices
Camden
32 dental practices
Islington
28 dental practices
Kensington & Chelsea
35 dental practices
Hackney
24 dental practices
Tower Hamlets
26 dental practices
Southwark
30 dental practices
Lambeth
25 dental practices
Wandsworth
38 dental practices
Hammersmith & Fulham
22 dental practices
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Check-ups
Everything you need to know about routine dental examinations.