Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings are the foundation of long term oral health. At Desert Family Dental in Mesa, Dr. Scott Lee and our hygiene team provide thorough exams, digital X rays, professional cleanings, fluoride treatments, and early detection of cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer. The American Dental Association recommends visiting your dentist at least twice a year for preventive care, and we make that easy with flexible scheduling and a team that respects your time.
What to Expect During Your Dental Checkup
Most patients visit every six months. Patients at higher risk, including pregnant women, smokers, patients with diabetes, and those with gum disease or weakened immune systems, may benefit from checkups every three to four months. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, preventive dental visits are one of the most effective ways to maintain oral health and detect problems early.
Digital X Rays
Dr. Lee uses digital X rays that expose patients to significantly less radiation than traditional film X rays. These high resolution images reveal hidden decay, gum disease, misalignment, and problems below the gum line invisible during a visual exam. Dr. Lee typically recommends X rays at every other appointment. For younger Mesa patients, X rays also help track developing teeth.
Comprehensive Exam
Your mouth is examined by both Dr. Lee and one of our experienced hygienists. The hygienist performs the initial assessment and notes changes since your last visit. Dr. Lee then performs his examination, screening for cavities, oral cancer, and signs of gum disease by measuring pockets between teeth and gums. If you feel anxious, we offer sedation dentistry to help you feel relaxed.
Professional Cleaning
Your hygienist performs a professional cleaning (prophylaxis) as part of every checkup. The hygienist uses a scaler to gently remove plaque and tartar deposits from the surface of your teeth and around your gum line, then polishes your teeth to remove minor stains and create a smooth surface that resists bacteria buildup. Dr. Lee typically recommends a fluoride treatment after your cleaning to strengthen enamel and protect against decay.
Scaling and Root Planing for Gum Disease
If Dr. Lee finds pockets between teeth and gums, a sign of periodontal disease, you may need a deeper cleaning. Scaling and root planing removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line and smooths rough spots on tooth roots where bacteria gather. This allows healthy gum tissue to regenerate. Learn more in our blog post on understanding gum disease prevention and treatment in Mesa.
Why Preventive Care Matters
Skipping checkups is one of the most common reasons small issues become expensive emergencies. A cavity caught early takes a simple filling. The same cavity left for a year may require a root canal or a tooth extraction. Undetected gum disease can lead to tooth loss and facial collapse. Regular checkups catch problems when they are smallest and least expensive to treat.
Preventive care is especially important for Mesa families with children. Our pediatric dentistry services make checkups comfortable and fun for kids. Read our back to school dental health guide for tips on keeping kids’ teeth healthy year round.
Why Mesa Patients Trust Dr. Lee for Preventive Care
Dr. Scott Lee is a Mesa native who averages forty hours of continuing education every year and takes the time to explain what he finds during every exam. Many patients tell us they have never had a dentist who listens as carefully or explains things as clearly. Our team also includes Dr. Gibbons and Dr. Monahan. See what our patients say on our patient reviews page.
Serving Preventive Care Patients Throughout Mesa
We welcome preventive care patients from throughout Mesa, including Dobson Ranch, Escalante, Mesa Grande, Mesa Riverview, Sycamore Station, Alma Gardens, and Mesa Vista. We also serve patients from Tempe, Chandler, and Gilbert. View all areas we serve.
Checkups and Cleanings FAQ
How often should I get a dental checkup?
Most patients benefit from checkups every six months. Patients with gum disease, diabetes, or other risk factors may need visits every three to four months.
What happens during a dental cleaning?
Our hygienist removes plaque and tartar, polishes your teeth, and applies fluoride. Typically takes 30 to 45 minutes.
Are dental X rays safe?
Yes. We use digital X rays with significantly less radiation than traditional film.
What if I haven’t been to the dentist in years?
We welcome patients who have been away for any length of time. We never judge. Dr. Lee will create a comfortable plan to get you back on track.
Do you offer cleanings for children?
Yes. Our pediatric dentistry team makes checkups comfortable for kids of all ages.
What is scaling and root planing?
A deeper cleaning for patients with gum disease. Learn more on our periodontal treatment page.
Is sedation available during cleanings?
Yes. We offer sedation dentistry for anxious patients.
Do you accept dental insurance?
Yes. Visit our patient resources page for details.
Schedule Your Checkup Today
Preventive care is the smartest investment you can make in your smile. Desert Family Dental has been helping Mesa families stay ahead of dental problems for over two decades.
Our friendly team is ready to welcome you. Whether it has been six months or six years since your last visit, we are here to help.
Call Desert Family Dental at (480) 485-7747 to schedule your checkup, or contact us online. We are located at 1760 W Main St, Mesa, AZ 85201.
