A professional clean is one of the most common reasons people visit the dentist, and one of the best ways to prevent bigger problems. Here is what a teeth cleaning includes, what affects the cost and how health fund cover works.
Key points
- A routine visit usually combines an exam, a scale and clean, and often a fluoride treatment.
- Cost depends on what is needed on the day, such as X-rays or extra time for heavy tartar.
- Deep cleaning for gum disease is a different, more involved treatment.
- Most extras policies cover check-ups and cleans; we claim on the spot with HICAPS.
What is included in a teeth cleaning?
- Examination of your teeth, gums and mouth.
- Scale and clean to remove plaque and hardened tartar (calculus) that brushing cannot shift.
- Polish to remove surface stain.
- Fluoride treatment to help protect enamel, where appropriate.
- X-rays when needed, usually every one to two years, to check between teeth and below the gums.
What affects the cost?
Each part of the visit has its own Australian Dental Association item number, so the total depends on what you need on the day. For example, a comprehensive first exam differs from a periodic check-up, and X-rays are only taken when needed. Heavy tartar build-up can need extra time. We explain the fees before we start, and you can see more on our fees page.
Deep cleaning: how it differs
If you have gum disease, a routine clean may not be enough. Deep cleaning, sometimes called root planing or periodontal treatment, cleans the root surfaces below the gum line where bacteria cause damage. It usually takes longer, may be done over more than one visit and often uses local anaesthetic. Learn more about gum disease treatment and bleeding gums.
Will my health fund pay?
Most extras policies include check-ups and cleans, often with a yearly limit. We claim on the spot with HICAPS, so you only pay the gap. Ask about our no-gap options. Eligible children may be covered by the Child Dental Benefits Schedule.
Why regular cleans are worth it
Tartar cannot be removed at home, and once it builds up it helps gum disease develop. Regular cleans let us catch decay and gum problems early, when treatment is simpler. Find out more about a scale and clean in Glenmore Park.
Common questions
Does a scale and clean hurt?
Most people find it comfortable. If your gums are sensitive or there is heavy tartar, we can go gently, use numbing gel or discuss local anaesthetic.
How long does a check-up and clean take?
Usually 30 to 45 minutes, a little longer for a first visit or if X-rays are needed.
Is a clean covered by the Child Dental Benefits Schedule?
Check-ups and cleans are among the services that can be covered for eligible children, up to the scheme’s benefit cap. We can check eligibility for you.
Can I just have a clean without a check-up?
We examine your teeth at the same visit so we can spot decay and gum problems early. It is part of providing safe care.
Reviewed by the Glenmore Park Dental Services clinical team, October 2026. This article is general information, not personal dental advice.
To book, call Glenmore Park Dental Services on (02) 4733 1197 or request an appointment. We are at Shop 17b, 11 Town Terrace, Glenmore Park, and open Monday to Saturday.