Whether you’re visiting a dentist for the first time in a while or starting with a new practice, knowing what to expect makes the process feel far more straightforward.
Whether you’re visiting a dentist for the first time in a while, moving to a new area, or simply starting with a new practice, knowing what to expect can make the process feel far more straightforward. This guide covers what typically happens at a first dental visit, and clears up a common point of confusion — the difference between a general dentist and a registered dental specialist, and what that distinction actually means for your care.
A typical New Patient Exam and Clean generally includes several parts, designed to give both you and your new dentist a clear, complete picture of your current oral health:
A comprehensive examination. Your dentist will examine your teeth, gums, and soft tissues, checking for signs of decay, gum disease, or other concerns.
X-rays, where needed. Digital X-rays are often taken as part of a new patient exam, allowing your dentist to assess areas not visible during a standard visual check. Not every visit requires X-rays; this depends on when you last had them taken.
A professional clean. Removing plaque and tartar build-up that can’t be addressed through regular brushing and flossing alone, and polishing your teeth.
A discussion of findings. Your dentist will talk through anything identified during your exam, along with any recommended next steps.
An opportunity to ask questions. This is a good time to raise any concerns, questions, or goals you have.
A new patient exam typically takes longer than a routine six-monthly check-up, since it involves gathering baseline information about your oral health for the first time. The exact duration varies by practice and individual case.
It’s helpful to bring your health fund membership card if you have one, so any eligible rebate can be processed via HICAPS on the spot. If you have X-rays or dental records from a previous dentist, bringing these can also be useful, though it’s not essential.
General dentists are qualified to diagnose and treat a broad range of dental concerns — including check-ups, fillings, root canals, crowns, cosmetic treatments like veneers, and orthodontic options including Invisalign. Most people’s day-to-day and ongoing dental care is provided by a general dentist.
Registered dental specialists — such as orthodontists, periodontists, endodontists, oral surgeons, and others — have completed additional, formally recognised training in a specific area of dentistry beyond general dental qualification, and this specialist status is regulated and protected under AHPRA. A dentist cannot describe themselves as a specialist, or use specialist titles, unless they hold this additional formal registration.
Both general dentists and registered specialists are appropriately qualified for their respective scopes of practice — the distinction isn’t about one being better than the other, but about the specific type and depth of training involved.
A general dentist may recommend referral to a specialist for certain more complex cases — for example, particularly complex orthodontic cases, certain oral surgery procedures, or advanced periodontal treatment. This isn’t a sign that anything has gone wrong; it’s a normal part of how dental care is structured. In many cases, your general dentist continues to manage your overall ongoing care alongside any specialist treatment for a specific issue.
Yes. Invisalign, veneers, teeth whitening, and many other cosmetic and orthodontic treatments are commonly provided by general dentists with relevant experience and training in these specific treatments, without requiring formal specialist registration.
If you’re due for a check-up or considering starting care with a new practice, a New Patient Exam and Clean is the recommended starting point. From there, your dentist can discuss any further treatment options relevant to your goals, including Invisalign, veneers, or general dental care.