Your Oral Health Starts Here
A comprehensive dental examination at Wickham Market Dental Practice is far more than a quick look at your teeth. It is a thorough assessment of your complete oral and dental health — your foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Why Regular Dental Examinations Matter
Prevention is always better — and less costly — than cure
A thorough dental examination allows our team to assess the health of your teeth, gums, supporting bone, soft tissues and jaw joints in comprehensive detail. Many serious dental conditions — including tooth decay, gum disease and oral cancer — can be detected and treated far more effectively when identified at an early stage.
At Wickham Market Dental Practice, a dental examination is a thorough and systematic assessment, not a brief check. We take a full medical history, update our records, examine every tooth, screen for oral cancer, assess gum health with periodontal charting, review any existing restorations and discuss any concerns you have about your dental health.
We recommend examination frequency based on your individual risk factors. Low-risk patients may only require a check-up every 18–24 months, while higher-risk patients benefit from more frequent visits. Your dentist will advise the optimum recall interval for your specific circumstances.
Why Choose Wickham Market Dental?
- Experienced, caring clinical team
- NHS and private treatment options
- Modern, comfortable practice
- Flexible finance available
- Serving patients since 1985
- Convenient Suffolk location
Why Patients Choose This Treatment
Oral Cancer Screening
Every examination includes a thorough visual screening of the mouth, tongue, throat and neck for any signs of abnormality. Early detection of oral cancer dramatically improves treatment outcomes.
Comprehensive Gum Assessment
We measure pocket depths around every tooth to detect early gum disease (periodontitis), which is a leading cause of tooth loss and has links to serious systemic health conditions.
Prevents Expensive Problems
Identifying decay, cracks and failing restorations early means simpler, less invasive and less expensive treatment. A small filling is far preferable to a crown or extraction.
Digital X-rays When Needed
Where clinically indicated, we take digital bitewing or periapical X-rays to detect decay between teeth, root problems and bone loss invisible to clinical examination.
Tailored Prevention Plan
Based on your examination findings, we provide personalised advice on diet, brushing technique, interdental cleaning and any lifestyle factors affecting your oral health.
Child Examinations
We welcome child patients and provide age-appropriate examinations monitoring development, eruption patterns and early signs of orthodontic concerns — establishing positive dental habits for life.
Who Should Have a Dental Examination?
A dental examination is recommended for everyone. You should book an appointment if:
Not sure if this is right for you?
Book a consultation with our experienced team. We will assess your individual situation and recommend the most suitable treatment for your needs and goals.
Book Free ConsultationYour Treatment Journey
We guide you through every stage — from your first consultation to your final result.
Medical History Update
5–10 minutesWe begin by updating your medical history, medications and any changes in your health since your last visit. This is essential as medical conditions and medications can significantly affect your dental health and treatment options.
X-rays (Where Indicated)
5–10 minutesWhere clinically indicated and in accordance with radiation guidelines, digital X-rays are taken to detect interproximal decay, root problems, bone levels and other pathology invisible to clinical examination.
Soft Tissue & Oral Cancer Screening
IncludedThe soft tissues of the mouth — including the tongue, floor of mouth, cheeks, palate, and throat — are carefully examined and palpated for any suspicious lesions, ulcers or abnormalities.
Gum Health Assessment
IncludedPocket depths around each tooth are measured using a periodontal probe to assess gum health. Bleeding on probing, recession and mobility are recorded. This allows us to detect and monitor gum disease at every stage.
Tooth-by-Tooth Examination
IncludedEvery tooth is individually examined for decay, cracks, failed restorations, wear and any other concerns. Existing fillings, crowns and other restorations are assessed for integrity.
Discussion & Treatment Plan
5–10 minutesThe findings of the examination are discussed with you clearly and in full. A personalised treatment plan is provided with all options, costs (NHS and private) and recommended priorities explained.
Treatment Fees
NHS Examination
Band 1 NHS charge (2024)
- Comprehensive oral examination
- Oral cancer screening
- X-rays where clinically indicated
- Treatment planning discussion
- Available to registered NHS patients
Private Examination
New patient or annual examination
- Extended appointment — no rush
- Full periodontal charting
- Digital X-rays included where needed
- Oral cancer screening
- Detailed written treatment plan
- Photography for records if required
New Patient Comprehensive
Extended new patient assessment
- Full medical and dental history
- Comprehensive clinical examination
- Full periodontal assessment
- Digital X-ray survey
- Personalised care plan discussion
- Treatment options and costing provided
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions our patients ask most often.
The frequency depends on your individual oral health risk. Low-risk patients with good oral hygiene may only need a check-up every 18–24 months. Higher-risk patients — those with a history of decay or gum disease, smokers, or diabetics — may benefit from 6-monthly or even more frequent visits. Your dentist will advise the ideal recall interval for you.
Can't find what you're looking for? Our team is happy to help.
Call us: 01728 746220Real Patient Results
Click the Before / After tabs to see the transformation. All cases treated here at Wickham Market Dental Practice.
All smile gallery images are illustrative examples. Our full patient case gallery is available to view at your consultation, with full patient consent.
Book a Consultation to See MoreWhat Our Patients Say
“I moved to the area and was nervous about finding a new dentist. Wickham Market Dental were excellent — thorough, professional and really took time to explain everything. So reassured about my dental health and will be back regularly.”
“Had not been to a dentist in nearly a decade due to anxiety. The team were so patient and non-judgmental. The examination was thorough and the treatment plan they put together was clear and prioritised. I feel in safe hands.”
Book Your Consultation Today
Take the first step towards the smile you deserve. Our friendly team at Wickham Market Dental Practice is ready to help.