At Dr. Rick Dentistry, we believe in preventive dental care to halt the onset or progression of dental disease. Dr. Rick and his patient-centered team offer a complete range of preventive services, including dental exams, tailored to your unique needs. We are committed to providing personalized care and cutting-edge smile solutions to help our valued patients maintain healthy smiles for life. We strive to provide you with a patient experience that exceeds your expectations.

How Often Should You Schedule Your Dental Exams?

General guidelines suggest that patients schedule regular dental exams and cleaning visits every six months for preventive care and maintenance. If, however, you have periodontal (gum) disease or have risk factors for oral health problems, we may recommend more frequent care.

What Can You Expect During Your Visit?

Here is a look at what you can expect during your twice-yearly visit:

• Digital X-Rays: Dr. Rick and his team will capture digital X-ray images with minimal radiation exposure, helping detect hidden problems between your teeth and beneath their surfaces. These may include early tooth decay, bone loss, tooth root fractures, impacted teeth, abscesses, infections, and more.
• Comprehensive Exam: Dr. Rick will examine your teeth, gums, dental restorations, and alignment of your bite. Uncovering any problems as they develop will ensure prompt treatment, preventing them from progressing and requiring more involved procedures down the road.
• Oral Cancer Screening: Our experienced dentist will perform a quick and pain-free oral cancer screening to check for abnormalities. The potentially life-saving exam can help detect early signs of oral cancer, providing the best chances for effective treatment.
• Personalized Treatment Plan: Dr. Rick will talk to you about any findings and work alongside you to create a personalized treatment plan. He always recommends the most conservative treatment options to help you achieve and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. 
• Professional Dental Cleaning: Our dental hygienist will gently remove plaque, tartar, and surface tooth stains, leaving you with a clean and fresh smile. Keeping up with regular dental cleanings has been shown to reduce the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, bad breath, and a host of oral health problems.

What Is the Importance of Keeping Up with Regular Dental Exams?

Your twice-yearly dental exams are the cornerstone of preventive care, helping you maintain a lifetime of healthy, beautiful, and functional smiles. Dr. Rick will thoroughly evaluate every aspect of your oral health to detect oral health problems in their earliest stages, before they cause any symptoms, preventing them from progressing and becoming more challenging to treat down the road. Your visit will also include a professional dental cleaning and oral hygiene instructions, helping lower the risk of dental disease.

Regular dental exams can also enhance your overall health. Studies have established a connection between poor oral health, especially periodontal disease, and a host of health conditions, such as heart disease, respiratory infections, Alzheimer’s disease, and even pregnancy complications. Moreover, signs of systemic conditions, such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and diabetes, often appear first in the mouth. If Dr. Rick finds warning signs of specific health concerns, we may refer you to your primary care physician for further evaluation.

Dental Exams Near Me in Scottsdale, AZ

If you are seeking a dental practice with a focus on prevention and early intervention, contact Dr. Rick Dentistry to schedule a consultation. Dr. Rick and his patient-centered team are dedicated to ensuring our valued patients maintain a lifetime of healthy, beautiful smiles. We invite you to call our Scottsdale practice at 480-585-4244 to schedule your appointment or request one online today!