Dental Check-Up vs Hygiene Appointments: What’s the Difference and Why Both Matter

When was your last dental check-up or dental hygiene appointment? If you’re unsure which one you need—or if you even need both—you’re not alone. These two types of appointments are often confused, but they each play a key role in keeping your teeth and gums healthy for life.

In this blog, we’ll explain exactly what happens during a dental check-up and a hygiene appointment, how they differ, how much they cost, and why they’re both important. If you’re looking for expert care in Leicestershire, our team at Winchester Avenue Dental Surgery is here to help.

What is a dental check-up?

A dental check-up is a routine examination carried out by a dentist to assess the health of your teeth, gums, and mouth. It’s your first line of defence against tooth decay, gum disease, and other issues that may be developing without noticeable symptoms.

During a check-up, your dentist will:

• Examine your teeth and gums for any signs of decay, infection, or disease
  
  
• Check for signs of oral cancer or other abnormalities
  
  
• Review your oral hygiene routine and offer advice
  
  
• Take X-rays if necessary (especially if you haven’t had them recently)
  

How much does a dental check-up cost?

At Winchester Avenue Dental Surgery, an adult dental check-up costs just £45 and includes up to two X-rays if required. It’s a small investment that can help you avoid bigger, more expensive problems down the line.

For more details on what’s included, check our page on dental check-ups.

What is a dental hygiene appointment?

A dental hygiene appointment focuses on professionally cleaning your teeth to remove plaque, tartar, and surface stains that can’t be eliminated by brushing and flossing alone. It’s carried out by a dental hygienist or, in some cases, a dentist.

Here’s what to expect:

• A thorough clean using scaling tools to remove hardened plaque
  
  
• Polishing to remove surface stains and smooth the tooth surface
  
  
• Oral hygiene advice tailored to your routine and risk factors
  
  
• In some cases, use of AirFlow polishing for a deeper clean
  

These appointments are essential for preventing gum disease and maintaining fresh breath and a healthy smile.

How much does a dental hygiene appointment cost?

At our practice, we offer several hygiene options depending on your needs and budget:

• Basic Hygiene – £65
  
  
• AirFlow Hygiene – £85
  
  
• Hygiene With Dentist – £120
  

All hygiene appointments can be booked directly—there’s no need to wait for a check-up first. Click here to book online.

Check-up vs hygiene appointments: what’s the difference?

Why you shouldn’t skip either one

Regular check-ups catch problems early

Tooth decay and gum disease often don’t cause pain until they’re advanced. A routine dental check-up allows your dentist to spot problems early, when treatment is simpler and less costly.

Learn more from the NHS guide on dental check-ups.

Hygiene appointments prevent gum disease

Most adults have some form of gum inflammation (gingivitis) or gum disease (periodontitis). A dental hygiene visit can remove the build-up of bacteria that causes these conditions—something even the best toothbrush can’t do.

Check out this resource from Bupa for more insight into dental hygiene treatments.

It’s about long-term health

Your oral health is linked to your overall health. Gum disease has been associated with heart disease, diabetes, and pregnancy complications. Keeping your mouth healthy helps protect your body, too.

Find out more from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research.

Why choose Winchester Avenue Dental Surgery?

• Open 7 days a week
  
  
• 650+ 5-star Google reviews
  
  
• Friendly, experienced team
  
  
• Affordable, transparent pricing
  
  
• Easy online booking and flexible appointment times
  

Whether it’s time for your routine dental check-up or you’re due for a dental hygiene visit, we’re here to help you take the best possible care of your smile.

How to see a dentist in the UK (if you don’t have one)

If you’re new to the area or haven’t been in a while, finding a dentist may feel like a hassle—but it doesn’t have to be.

You can choose to go NHS or private, depending on what’s available locally and your preference.

To see a dentist in the UK, you can:

• Search online for local practices
• Use the NHS dentist finder to check availability
• Call the practice directly and ask if they are accepting new patients
• For urgent issues, contact 111 for advice if you can’t find help on your own

If you’re in Leicester, you’re welcome to register or book directly with Winchester Avenue Dental Surgery, even if you’ve never been before.

Ready to book yours?

Taking care of your teeth doesn’t need to be complicated—or expensive.

Visit our appointments page to book your check-up or hygiene appointment today. Let’s keep your smile healthy, clean, and confident.

Frequently asked questions  - check up vs hygiene