A dental check-up doesn't take long – it's a consultation in which the professional evaluates the teeth, gums and all the structures in the mouth to check that everything is ok. The dentist also performs prophylaxis, which is a more thorough cleaning. During the appointment, fluoride is also applied to protect the teeth from bacteria that cause cavities and prevent the weakening of tooth enamel.

If the patient has a lot of plaque and tartar, the specialist will also scrape the teeth to remove them. In some patients, the dentist may request an X-ray to make sure there is no hidden problem. It is very common for cavities to develop between the teeth and only an examination can detect this.

The recommendation is that check-ups be done every 6 months, but this may vary depending on the needs of each patient and the professional's guidance. Regular check-ups allow for the diagnosis of diseases in their early stages, preventing future problems, in addition to receiving oral health guidance.