Oral health assessments and check-ups, the fundamentals of preventative dental care

Childhood cavities and decay are some of the highly prevalent diseases among children, while adults often suffer from gum disease due to gingivitis or periodontitis. These conditions can cause severe dental damage that might necessitate a tooth extraction. Luckily, our team at West London Orthodontist in West London are proficient in the prevention of dental/periodontal diseases and other oral health issues through proactive and preventative dental care services.

Why check-ups matter

Why are regular dental check-ups important?

To maintain oral health, it is highly recommended to have biannual check-ups, while patients with risk factors such as smoking or tobacco use should visit more often. If you are under treatment for active gum disease at our studios, it is crucial to have regular dental check-ups and oral health assessments to evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment.

Routinely having complete assessments is critical for the early detection of tooth structure concerns, gum tissue problems, and other oral anomalies that are often silent and easily overlooked. If left untreated, these issues can lead to damage that requires restorative dental care. Our advanced diagnostic technologies aid in accurate diagnoses and help prevent discomfort, distressing symptoms, and the need for expensive, aggressive treatments related to dental diseases.

Check-ups, explained

The detail,
made simple

What can I expect during an oral assessment?

During an oral assessment, your dentist will thoroughly examine your mouth, teeth, and gums. This typically involves checking for cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, and other potential issues. You may also receive digital X-rays, which help identify problems below the surface. The dentist will examine your bite and the alignment of your teeth, too. While it may seem overwhelming, the process typically takes 30–60 minutes and is essential for maintaining good oral health.

An oral health assessment at our Hammersmith studio

What other services are offered at West London Orthodontist?

We are proud of the unique and complementary skills of our orthodontist, Dr. Chaw-Su Kyi, who performs thorough orthodontic evaluations. With our extensive expertise in various dental disciplines, we have covered all of your oral and maxillofacial needs!

An orthodontic evaluation at our Hammersmith studio
Professional cleanings

Why do I need a hygiene session with my check-up?

Plaque starts rebuilding within hours of brushing, and once it hardens into tartar, no amount of brushing at home will shift it - particularly along the gum line and between the back teeth, where a brush simply can’t get. Left there, it’s what turns healthy gums into bleeding ones, and bleeding gums into gum disease. That’s why a hygiene appointment sits alongside your check-up rather than being treated as an optional extra.

Your hygienist removes the build-up above and below the gum line, polishes the surfaces so plaque has less to cling to, and records how your gums are responding compared with last time. You’ll also get a straight answer about the two or three places you’re consistently missing, which is more useful than being told to brush more.

A hygienist showing a patient how to brush effectively, using a dental model, at our Hammersmith studio

How can I find a provider near me in the West London area who offers dental check-ups and oral health assessments?

Are you due for a dental check-up? Reach out to us today to schedule a visit to our office for the care you need! To schedule an appointment with Dr. Chaw-Su Kyi, call 020 8222 8760 and request a visit at either of our office locations on Hammersmith Grove or Harley Street in West London.

Book online Call us · 020 8222 8760
Hammersmith questions

Questions
for us?

Will the assessment hurt?+

Most patients feel nothing during an oral assessment. Any discomfort tends to be brief, and usually only if you have sensitive teeth. Tell us before we start if you are worried about anything - we can go more slowly, explain what we are doing as we go, or use a topical anaesthetic to numb an area if it would help.

How can I manage my anxiety before the appointment?+

Dental anxiety is very common and worth taking seriously. Before your appointment, deep breathing, visualisation or a few minutes of mindfulness can settle your nerves, and bringing someone with you often helps. Most importantly, tell us how you are feeling when you book - we would far rather know in advance so we can give you a longer appointment and take things at your pace.

What should I do if I feel anxious during the appointment?+

Tell us. Raise a hand at any point and we will stop. You can ask for a break, a moment to gather yourself, or simply to have something explained again. You are welcome to bring headphones and listen to your own music throughout. Your comfort matters to us, and nobody here will make you feel awkward for asking.

Are there relaxation techniques I can use during the assessment?+

Yes, and they genuinely help. The simplest is controlled breathing - inhale through your nose for four counts, hold for four, then release slowly through your mouth for four. Focusing on a calming image or a repeated phrase can shift your attention away from what is happening. Music through headphones works well for a lot of our patients.

How often should I have an oral assessment?+

Every six months suits most people. That allows us to catch problems early, while they are still small and simple to treat. We may suggest coming more often if you have gum disease, a history of decay, or if you are partway through orthodontic treatment - and less often if your oral health is consistently good. We will tell you what we recommend and why.

What happens after the assessment?+

We talk you through what we found - what looks healthy, anything we want to keep an eye on, and anything that needs treating. You will get practical advice on brushing, flossing and diet, tailored to what we have actually seen in your mouth rather than generic guidance. If treatment is needed, we will explain the options and costs before booking anything, and you will have time to ask questions.

Where can I book a dental check-up in West London?+

Are you due for a check-up? Book online to see Dr Sepideh Heydarian at our Hammersmith studio, or call us on 020 8222 8760 and we will find you a time that suits. You will find us at 89 Hammersmith Grove, less than ten minutes on foot from Hammersmith station, with off-street parking if you are driving.

From the journal

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Your next smile starts here

Keep Your Oral Health in Check

Book Your Oral Health Assessment Today!

Book online Call us on 020 8222 8760

The Studio

89 Hammersmith Grove,
London W6 0NQ

5 mins from The Godolphin & Latymer School

8 mins from Hammersmith station

Free off-street parking

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