Keep Your Smile Healthy With General and Preventative Dentistry in Wollongong

Most people benefit from routine dental check-ups and professional cleaning every 6 or 12 months. These regular visits allow your dentist to detect early signs of problems like tooth decay or gum disease. Catching problems early can help prevent discomfort and reduce the need for more complex procedures later on.

While this is a helpful general guide, the ideal frequency can vary. Some people may need to visit more or less often depending on their oral health, lifestyle habits, or medical history. Your dentist will recommend a schedule that supports your long-term oral health.

A preventative dental check-up is designed to support your oral health. It can also detect issues early, often before you notice any symptoms. 

Here’s what usually happens during a preventative dental check-up:

1. Your dentist will examine your teeth, gums, and mouth for early signs of decay or gum inflammation. They may also look for signs of other dental concerns that are not yet noticeable.
2. X-rays may be taken if needed to check areas not visible during a regular examination, such as between teeth or beneath the gums.
3. Your bite and jaw will be assessed to identify issues that could affect your long-term comfort and oral health.
4. Your dentist will ask about your brushing and flossing routine and suggest ways to improve it if needed. They may also perform a professional cleaning to remove hardened plaque or tartar that brushing at home can’t remove.
5. Your dentist may apply fluoride during your visit. They may also recommend other preventative dental care procedures, especially for those with sensitive teeth or a higher risk of decay.

Routine dental check-ups play a key role in preventing minor issues from developing into more serious concerns. During your visit, your dentist will also advise on how frequently you should return for a check-up based on your individual oral health and risk profile. At Illawarra Dentists, we’re proud to provide preventative dental care in Wollongong that supports early detection and long-term oral health.

Yes—even with good brushing and flossing habits, a professional dental clean is still important. Over time, plaque can harden into tartar. This often happens in areas that are difficult to reach, like behind your back teeth or just under the gumline.

A professional dental clean removes this build-up using dental tools, preventing gum inflammation and other issues that may go unnoticed. It also gives your dentist a chance to monitor areas that may need extra care between visits.

Recognising early signs of tooth decay or gum disease can help you take action before the issue becomes more complex. Many early symptoms are subtle, so knowing what to look for can make a big difference between check-ups.

Early signs of tooth decay may include:

1. Tooth sensitivity when eating or drinking: You may feel a sharp or uncomfortable sensation when consuming something cold, sweet, or acidic. This can be an early sign that the enamel is compromised.
2. White or brown spots on the tooth surface: Changes in colour, such as chalky white areas or brown patches, can indicate the beginning stages of enamel damage or decay.
3. Food regularly catches between teeth: If food frequently gets caught in the same area, it may be a sign of a cavity or changes in your tooth structure.
4. Mild discomfort when biting or chewing: Tenderness or pressure while chewing—even without visible damage—can suggest that decay has reached deeper layers of the tooth.

Early signs of gum disease may include:

1. Red, swollen, or tender gums: Healthy gums should be firm and pink. Inflammation may indicate the early stage of gum disease, often referred to as gingivitis.
2. Bleeding when brushing or flossing: Occasional bleeding can happen, but if it occurs regularly, it could suggest gum inflammation caused by plaque build-up.
3. Persistent bad breath: Bad breath that doesn’t go away despite brushing may be caused by bacteria under the gumline or early signs of gum disease.
4. Receding gums or teeth appearing longer: If your gum line starts to pull back, more of the tooth becomes exposed. This may indicate early tissue breakdown or gum recession, which may be a sign of advanced gum disease.

Recognising these symptoms early plays an important role in tooth decay prevention, gum disease management, and maintenance of overall oral health. At Illawarra Dentists, our approach to preventative dental care focuses on early detection and personalised care. This enables us to provide timely support and minimise the need for more complex treatments.

Yes—fluoride treatments for adults can provide added protection, especially for those at higher risk of tooth decay due to lifestyle or medical factors. This includes patients who frequently snack and those with exposed root surfaces, dry mouth or a history of cavities.

Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel, making it more resistant to acid attacks from bacterial plaque. If your dentist determines that additional protection would be beneficial, they may recommend a fluoride treatment during your visit. This is typically applied following a professional scale and clean. The added protection can help reduce the risk of tooth decay.

Yes—dental X-rays are widely considered safe. Modern X-ray technology uses very low levels of radiation, keeping exposure minimal and well within established safety guidelines. Additional protective measures, such as lead aprons, are also used to further reduce exposure.

How often you need dental X-rays depends on your oral health and risk factors. Some people may need them every 6-12 months, while others may only need them occasionally. Your dentist will recommend an X-ray based on your symptoms and the results of your oral examination.

Yes—general dentists can help manage the early stages of gum disease, such as gingivitis. They do this through professional cleaning, monitoring your gum health, and offering personalised advice to improve your daily care at home.

If your gum condition is more advanced, your dentist may recommend additional care with a dentist who has had additional training and more experience in gum disease treatments. Regular check-ups are important for identifying gum changes early and supporting your long-term oral health.

The complimentary smile consultation is available for a limited time, but an exact end date has not been announced. This means the offer will continue for a while, but it could also change depending on appointment availability or clinic scheduling.

If you’re considering cosmetic dental treatment, it’s a good idea to book your consultation soon. You may also want to book early if you’re looking for more clarity about your options. Booking early gives you greater flexibility with appointment times. It also helps you access the full consultation, including the digital scan, X-rays, and professional guidance, before the offer ends or becomes fully booked.

Yes—in many cases, a general dentist can remove wisdom teeth. This is often possible when the teeth have fully emerged or are causing dental concerns. Your dentist will explain what to expect before and after the procedure.

For more complex cases—such as impacted or nerve-adjacent teeth—your dentist may recommend further care. They may suggest seeing a dental practitioner with additional training in managing complex extractions. An assessment, including X-rays, will help determine an approach that suits your needs and supports your comfort.

Yes, we do. As a trusted family dentist in Wollongong, we care for patients of all ages—from children to older adults. Our family dentistry services in Wollongong are designed to support every stage of life, with a focus on prevention, comfort, and clear communication.

Whether it’s your child’s first visit, a routine check-up for a teen, or ongoing care for an adult, we’re here to help. We take the time to understand each patient’s needs and tailor the appointment to suit their age and stage of care. Our goal is to make dental care a familiar and positive part of your family’s health routine.

Yes, we accept all major health funds at Illawarra Dentists. For added convenience, we offer HICAPS claiming, so you can claim your benefit on the spot—no need to contact your fund separately. Just bring your health fund card to your appointment, and we’ll process your claim at reception. If you're unsure about what your fund covers or have questions about limits, our friendly team is always ready to assist.

Yes, we’re currently welcoming new patients at Illawarra Dentists. Whether you're new to the area or seeking a trusted team, we offer general and preventative dentistry in Wollongong to support your dental care.

We offer a range of services for patients of all ages. We take the time to get to know you and understand what matters most to you when it comes to your oral health. This helps us provide care that’s tailored to your needs, with a focus on thoroughness, comfort, and clear communication. 

If you’re ready to book your first visit—or simply want to ask a question—our team is here to help. Message us anytime to learn about our services, ask questions, or schedule a visit at a time that suits you.