Annual dental visits do more than freshen your smile, they protect your long-term oral health and catch problems early. Whether you live in the 85250 area, Park Scottsdale, or near Old Town, scheduling an annual checkup keeps small issues from becoming costly, uncomfortable emergencies. In this guide you will learn what happens during an annual dental cleaning and exam in Scottsdale, why it matters, and how Scottsdale's Dentist makes the process comfortable and efficient.

During your first paragraph here, note that a regular visit — the combination of a professional cleaning and a thorough exam — is often called a preventive visit. At Scottsdales Dentist we emphasize gentle care tailored to families, professionals, and retirees. Many patients refer to it simply as their yearly cleaning and exam, or preventive dental exam. If you're looking for the best family dentist Scottsdale, our team focuses on comfort, clear explanations, and lasting results. annual dental cleaning and exam scottsdale

Why an Annual Cleaning and Exam Matters

Regular professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup that daily brushing and flossing miss. The exam portion includes oral cancer screening, bite and jaw evaluation, and periodontal assessment. Early detection prevents decay, stops gum disease progression, and saves you money and time. For people with chronic conditions or a history of gum disease, annual cleanings may even be recommended more frequently.

Prevent cavities and gum disease before symptoms start
Spot problems early, from cracked teeth to oral lesions
Keep existing restorations, implants, and crowns healthy with routine monitoring

Scottsdales Dentist pairs preventive cleanings with modern diagnostics and patient education, so you leave knowing exactly how to protect your smile. Learn more about our preventive services on our Dental Cleanings & Exams page: https://scottsdalesdentist.com/dental-cleanings-exams/

What to Expect During Your Visit

Arrival and Health Review

A team member will review your health history and any medication changes. Bring your insurance info if you have it, and mention any dental sensitivity or recent concerns.

Professional Cleaning

The hygienist performs scaling and polishing, removing tartar and surface stains. If you have heavy staining, we discuss safe whitening options. For cosmetic concerns, see our cosmetic dentist Scottsdale AZ page: https://scottsdalesdentist.com/cosmetic-dentist-in-scottsdale/

Comprehensive Exam

Dr. Jennifer Bundy or an experienced clinician performs a full oral exam, checks bite alignment, examines existing restorations, and screens for oral cancer. Any findings will be explained clearly with treatment options.

X-rays and Advanced Diagnostics

When appropriate, we take digital X-rays to check areas below the gumline or between teeth. Digital imaging reduces radiation and improves diagnosis.

Who Should Get Annual Cleanings?

Everyone benefits from yearly preventive care, but certain groups especially need regular visits:

Families, including children starting with a first exam by age one or when the first tooth appears
Adults with history of cavities or gum disease
Patients with dental implants, crowns, or dentures who need routine checks: https://scottsdalesdentist.com/dental-implants/ and https://scottsdalesdentist.com/dental-services/dentures/
People who smoke, have diabetes, or take medications that affect oral health

If you need same-day attention, our practice provides emergency dental care near Old Town at https://scottsdalesdentist.com/emergency-dental-care/.

Preparing For Your Appointment

Brush and floss before your visit to make cleaning easier
List any current medications and recent health changes
Bring your insurance card or payment method
Note any dental history, such as sensitivity or past periodontal therapy: https://scottsdalesdentist.com/periodontal-treatment/

Questions about what to expect are welcome, and we walk you through every step.

Aftercare and Simple Habits That Extend Results

Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss once daily
Use a soft-bristled brush and gentle circular motions
Avoid sticky, sugary snacks and sip water between meals
Schedule follow-up visits as recommended, and ask about custom night guards if you grind your teeth

FAQs

How long does an annual cleaning and exam take?

Most preventive visits last 45 to 60 minutes, depending on X-rays and the amount of cleaning needed.

Will insurance cover my cleaning and exam?

Many plans cover preventive care fully or partially. Our front desk can verify benefits before your visit.

How often should I have X-rays?

X-ray frequency depends on your oral health, dental history, and risk profile. Dr. Bundy recommends a personalized schedule.

Do I need a cleaning if I brush and floss every day?

Yes, professional scaling removes hardened tartar that at-home care cannot remove.

What if I have dental anxiety?

We prioritize comfort and offer sedation options and a calm, supportive environment. Tell us your concerns, and we will adapt care to your needs.

Can teeth whitening be done at the same appointment?

If you have no active decay or gum inflammation, whitening can often be scheduled soon after your cleaning. Learn about our cosmetic whitening options at https://scottsdalesdentist.com/cosmetic-dentist-in-scottsdale/teeth-whitening/.

When should I call for emergency dental care?

If you have severe pain, swelling, trauma, or a knocked-out tooth, call right away at (480) 948-1720 or visit our emergency care page: https://scottsdalesdentist.com/emergency-dental-care/.

Ready To Schedule Your Visit?

We make booking simple. Call (480) 948-1720 or contact us online to schedule your annual dental cleaning and exam in Scottsdale. New patients are welcome, and we accept most insurances.

For families, cosmetic consults, or implant maintenance, explore our services: general and cosmetic care at https://scottsdalesdentist.com/, restorative options including dental implants at https://scottsdalesdentist.com/dental-implants/, and dentures at https://scottsdalesdentist.com/dental-services/dentures/.

Conclusion

An annual dental cleaning and exam is your best defense against silent oral health problems. It is a quick investment that prevents pain, keeps your smile bright, and supports overall health. At Scottsdales Dentist, Dr. Jennifer Bundy and our team deliver gentle, modern care with clear recommendations so you can feel confident about your oral health all year long.

About Scottsdales Dentist

Scottsdales Dentist is a trusted, top-rated dental practice located in the heart of Scottsdale, Arizona (85250). Led by Dr. Jennifer Bundy, DDS — recognized as a Top Arizona General Dentist for 2025 — our office provides complete family and cosmetic dental care with a focus on comfort, technology, and long-term oral health.

We combine personalized, gentle care with the latest advancements in cosmetic dentistry, preventive cleanings, and dental implants to help patients achieve healthy, confident smiles. Whether you need same-day emergency dental care or advanced smile restoration, our experienced team delivers exceptional results in a calm, friendly setting.

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Ready to Schedule an Appointment?

We’re accepting new patients! Call (480) 948-1720 or contact us online to schedule your next visit at Scottsdales Dentist.

Why an Annual Cleaning and Exam Matters