Check-Up and Clean
The foundation of a confident smile is knowing exactly where you stand.
A dental check-up and clean is a comprehensive examination and professional teeth cleaning designed to detect early signs of decay, gum disease, and oral health concerns before they become serious.
Here at Pitt Street Dental Centre in Sydney CBD, led by celebrity dentist Dr Michael Cai, BDSc (Hons) WA MRACDS (GDP), our team of experienced hygienists and oral therapists looks after your preventative care using the luxurious, warm-water EMS Airflow system. It feels more like a spa treatment for your teeth than a dental clean.
You simply relax and watch your favourite Netflix show on the ceiling-mounted TV while we turn your clean into a genuine self-care session. Your appointment takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes, and we recommend a visit every six months.
A Check-Up and Clean That Fits Your Day
It has been on your list for a while. Between meetings, client calls, and everything else competing for your time, booking a dental check-up is easy to push back another month.
But most of our patients say the same thing after they come in. They wish they had booked sooner. Not because anything was wrong, but because knowing where they stand takes the uncertainty out of it entirely.
Here at Pitt Street Dental Centre, we have designed every part of the experience around you. From the moment you walk in, it feels nothing like a typical dental visit. Dimmed lighting, aromatherapy, a complimentary beverage menu, and a lounge-style waiting area set the tone before we even begin. And because we are right in the heart of Sydney CBD, fitting an appointment in before work, during a lunch break, or on the way home is never a problem.
What Does a Check-Up and Clean Involve?
A check-up and clean combines two essential services. First, we carry out a thorough examination of your teeth, gums, and mouth. Then we follow with a professional clean to remove the plaque and tartar that brushing and flossing alone simply cannot reach.
During your examination, your oral health therapist will check for cavities, gum disease, bite irregularities, worn or failing restorations (fillings, crowns, or other existing dental work), and early signs of oral cancer. We may also take digital 3D X-rays to identify issues beneath the surface, including decay between teeth, infections at the root, and bone changes around existing dental work.
For the cleaning itself, we use the EMS Airflow system with warm water and a fine powder to gently lift staining, plaque, and bacterial buildup from every surface. If you have ever dreaded the scraping sensation of a traditional scale and clean, this is a completely different experience. It is gentle, thorough, and our patients genuinely enjoy it.
According to the Australian Dental Association, professional cleaning is an essential part of preventing periodontal disease, which affects nearly 30% of Australian adults.
Every check-up at our Sydney CBD practice finishes with a clear, honest conversation about your oral health and a personalised plan for any care that may be needed. No jargon, no pressure, just the information you need to make informed decisions.
How Do I Know If I Need a Dental Check-Up?
If any of these sound familiar, it is time to book in with us:
“It has been more than six months since my last dental appointment”
“My gums bleed when I brush or floss”
“I have noticed persistent bad breath that mouthwash does not seem to fix”
“My teeth feel sensitive to hot or cold drinks”
“I can see staining or discolouration building up on my teeth”
“Nothing hurts, but I know I have been putting it off”
The reality is that many dental issues develop without any pain at all. Decay, gum disease, and early enamel erosion can progress silently for months. By the time you notice something, the treatment is often more involved and more expensive than it would have been if we had caught it early.
That is exactly why we are here. Regular check-ups let us stay ahead of problems before they become bigger ones.
What Happens During a Check-Up and Clean here at Pitt Street Dental Centre?
01
Arrival and Welcome (10 minutes)
When you arrive at our Level 2 Pitt Street practice, you will notice the difference immediately. We have designed the space to feel more like a day spa than a dental surgery. Dimmed lighting, aromatherapy, and our lounge-style waiting area set the tone. Help yourself to a complimentary beverage, settle in, and we will come and get you when we are ready. Our team will chat with you about your dental history, any current concerns, and lifestyle factors before we begin.
02
Comprehensive Examination (15 to 20 minutes)
Your oral health therapist will carry out a thorough visual and digital examination. We check every tooth surface, assess your gum health by gently measuring the space between your teeth and gums, screen for oral cancer, and take 3D X-rays where clinically needed. Nothing gets missed.
03
EMS Airflow Clean (20 to 25 minutes)
This is the part our patients love. Our hygienists use the EMS Airflow system with warm water and a fine powder to gently and comfortably remove plaque, tartar, and surface staining. You recline, choose something to watch on the ceiling-mounted Netflix screen, and let us take care of the rest. It genuinely feels more like a self-care session than a dental procedure.
04
Results and Your Plan (5 to 10 minutes)
We will walk you through a clear, straightforward summary of your oral health. If anything needs attention, we will explain what it is, show you with digital imaging where possible, and outline your options with costs before any work begins. There is never any pressure to proceed on the spot. We give you the information and the space to decide.
Are There Any Risks With a Check-Up and Clean? What Should I Expect Afterwards?
A routine check-up and clean is one of the lowest-risk dental procedures we offer. That said, we believe in being upfront, so here is what to know.
You may notice:
- Mild gum tenderness for a day or two after your clean, particularly if there has been significant plaque buildup
- Temporary sensitivity to hot or cold, which typically settles within 48 hours
- Minor bleeding from the gums during or after the clean if early gum disease (gingivitis) is present
What to expect when you leave:
- Your teeth will feel noticeably smoother and cleaner. That just-polished feeling is real, and our patients tell us they cannot stop running their tongue across their teeth
- Any sensitivity typically fades within one to two days
- If we found areas of concern, we will have already outlined the next steps and timeline for you
- You can eat and drink normally straight away
- Avoiding strongly pigmented food and drink (coffee, red wine, curry) for 24 hours will help maintain that polished finish
If you experience anything unusual after your visit, call us on +61 2 8000 1832 and we will arrange a follow-up.
Transparent pricing, no surprises
We believe you should know exactly what to expect before you sit in the chair. Download our full price list so you can review everything at your own pace.
Frequently Asked Questions About Check-Up and Clean Appointments
How often should I have a check-up and clean?
The Australian Dental Association recommends regular check-ups and professional cleaning as essential for good oral health. For most patients, we recommend a check-up and clean every six months. However, if you have a history of gum disease, frequent cavities, or ongoing dental work, you may benefit from visits every three to four months. We will advise on the right schedule for your individual needs during your appointment.
How much does a check-up and clean cost in Sydney CBD?
We publish a complete price list that you can download from this page. We are upfront about costs at Pitt Street Dental Centre. You will always know the fee before your appointment, and there are no hidden charges. Payment plans are also available if you need additional treatment beyond your check-up.
Can I claim my check-up and clean on private health insurance?
Yes. Most private health funds with dental extras cover part or all of a routine check-up and clean. We process health fund claims on the spot using HICAPS, so you only pay the gap (if any) at the time of your appointment.
What if you find something that needs treatment?
If we identify an issue during your examination, we will explain what it is, show you with digital imaging where possible, and outline your treatment options. You will receive a written treatment plan with a cost estimate before any work begins. There is no obligation to proceed on the day.
Is the clean uncomfortable?
Honestly, most of our patients find it genuinely relaxing. Our EMS Airflow system uses warm water and a fine powder instead of traditional cold water and scraping, so it is far more comfortable than what you might remember from past dental visits. You recline, pick a show on our ceiling-mounted Netflix screen, put on your noise-cancelling headset, and let our hygienists take care of the rest. For patients who experience dental anxiety, we also offer sedation options and happy gas for a completely calm experience.
Can I book a same-day check-up and clean in Sydney CBD?
We understand that busy schedules do not always allow for advance booking. Our reception team does everything possible to accommodate same-day requests. Simply call us or book online, and we will find the earliest available time for you.
Payment Plans
Why Choose Pitt Street Dental Centre for Your Check-Up and Clean in Sydney?
We are designed for people who value their time
Located at Level 2, 70 Pitt Street, we are a short walk from Martin Place, Wynyard, and Town Hall stations. Before work, during lunch, or on the way home. We make it easy to fit your dental care into your life, not the other way around.
A dental clean that actually feels good
We use the EMS Airflow system with warm water for a clean that is gentle, thorough, and nothing like the traditional scrape-and-polish you may have experienced elsewhere. Add the ceiling-mounted Netflix screen and complimentary beverages, and you will understand why our patients actually look forward to their appointments.
A reputation built on precision and trust
Led by celebrity dentist Dr Michael Cai, our team has built its reputation on meticulous attention to detail, honest communication, and clinical excellence. With over 35,000 crowns placed and patients including NRL players, television personalities, and corporate executives, the standard of care at every appointment reflects that experience.
We tell you the truth, not what we think you want to hear
You will never be upsold or pressured into treatment you do not need. We explain what we find, outline your options, and give you the space to make informed decisions. Every treatment plan comes with a clear cost estimate. No surprises.
Advanced diagnostic technology
Digital 3D X-rays, intraoral cameras, and CEREC scanning allow us to detect issues early and show you exactly what we see on screen. Early detection means simpler treatment, less discomfort, and lower cost.
INSIGHTS & INSPIRATION
GLP 1 Medicine
Why Small Cavities Don’t Hurt (And Why You Still Need a Check-Up)
Time To Reset Your Dental Hygiene Routine
Why Six-Monthly Check-Ups Matter In Sydney
Author Attribution:
Medically reviewed by Dr Michael Cai, BDSc (Hons) WA MRACDS (GDP) – July 2026
Medical Disclaimer:
The information on this page is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional dental advice. Treatment outcomes vary between individuals. All surgical procedures carry risks. Please consult Dr Michael Cai or one of our qualified dentists at Pitt Street Dental Centre for personalised advice about your dental health.
