Arizona ranks among the lowest in the nation for routine dental visits, and the consequences can be significant. Many adults, particularly those without insurance, with lower incomes, or with dental anxiety, forgo regular dental checkups, leading to more untreated oral health issues and related emotional stress. This lack of access also impacts children, who in Arizona experience tooth decay at rates three times the national average. Routine dental checkups play a critical role in preventing these outcomes by catching problems like cavities or gum disease early before they become painful, complex, and expensive to treat. Knowing what to expect at a dental checkup and how to prepare for it can help make the experience easier and more positive, empowering patients to take charge of their oral health with greater confidence and less anxiety.
A routine dental appointment usually takes around an hour or less and consists of:
It requires little preparation other than making sure you confirm your appointment and have your dental insurance and other necessary paperwork in order.
At Dental Depot of Arizona, we believe that everyone deserves access to high-quality dental care that fits their life and their budget. That’s why we work hard to make routine dental visits easy, convenient, and affordable. With multiple locations across the Valley, flexible scheduling—including Saturday appointments—and a wide range of services all under one roof, we’re committed to removing the barriers that keep people from getting the care they need. We accept most major insurances, offer payment plans through trusted partners like CareCredit, and provide transparent, commonsense pricing to help patients plan their care with confidence. From your first checkup to ongoing preventive care, our experienced team is here to support your smile every step of the way.
Routine dental checkups are essential not only for maintaining clean teeth and healthy gums, but also for detecting small problems before they become more serious—and more costly. Conditions like gum disease, cavities, and even oral cancer can often be caught in their earliest stages during a routine exam, when they’re easiest to treat. These visits also offer an opportunity to reinforce good hygiene habits, receive personalized care recommendations, and build a trusting relationship with your dental team that supports your long-term health.
But dental checkups go beyond your mouth. Dentists are trained to spot early warning signs of systemic health issues that often show up first in the teeth and gums. Inflammation, enamel erosion, unusual wear patterns, and even the smell of your breath can point to underlying conditions like diabetes, GERD, or vitamin deficiencies. Dentists can also recognize lifestyle habits like smoking, stress, or poor diet based on changes in your oral tissues. Because of this close link between oral and overall health, regular dental visits are an important part of preventive healthcare and a key step in protecting your well-being.
Routine dental checkups are generally quick and low-stress, and knowing what to expect can help you feel more comfortable and confident during your visit.
If it’s been a year or more since your last x-rays—or if it’s your first visit—you may need them to get a better look at what’s happening beneath the surface of your teeth and gums. A dental assistant or hygienist will place a small device in your mouth for you to bite down on and cover you with a protective apron while the x-rays are taken. These images help your dentist spot issues like bone loss, hidden decay, or impacted teeth.
Most of your visit will be spent with a dental hygienist who will clean your teeth thoroughly. This includes removing plaque and tartar buildup with special tools, flossing between your teeth, and polishing your enamel to remove stains and smooth the surfaces. A fluoride treatment may also be applied to strengthen your teeth and help prevent future cavities.
Once your teeth are clean, your dentist will examine your mouth using a small mirror and light. They’ll check each tooth, assess your gums, evaluate your bite, and look for signs of decay, gum disease, oral cancer, or jaw issues. Your dentist may also review your x-rays during this time to look for any hidden concerns.
Your dentist will ask about your medical history, current medications, and any dental issues you may be experiencing—such as pain, sensitivity, or dry mouth. Be sure to mention if you use a night guard or other dental appliances. Full transparency helps your dental team provide safe and personalized care.
If any problems are found—like cavities, gum inflammation, or bite issues—your dentist will go over your treatment options and may help you schedule a follow-up appointment. You’ll also receive recommendations on improving your at-home oral hygiene routine, such as brushing and flossing techniques or whether you might benefit from a night guard or other preventive tools.
Preparing for a routine dental checkup doesn’t take much effort, but a little planning ahead can go a long way in making your visit smoother, more comfortable, and more beneficial for your overall oral health.
Double-check the time, date, and location of your appointment, especially if you’re visiting a new office, and make sure you won’t be rushing to get out of there. You want to give yourself enough time to ask any questions of your dentist or dental hygienist at the end of your appointment.
This isn’t to hide anything from your dentist—it just makes the cleaning process smoother and more comfortable for you. However, don’t overdo it, or save all your brushing and flossing for the morning of your appointment; not only will it not do much as far as making your teeth cleaner, it may make your teeth and gums more sensitive and tender than would have already been.
Be ready to share updated medical info, including any recent diagnoses or new medications that could affect your oral health.
Whether it’s tooth sensitivity or cosmetic options, having your questions ready can help make the most of your time with the dentist.
Give yourself time to fill out any necessary paperwork and settle in without feeling rushed.
Feeling nervous about visiting the dentist is completely normal and fairly common, and dental professionals are trained to recognize and manage dental anxiety with care, compassion, and understanding.
Being upfront about your anxiety allows your dentist and hygienist to take extra steps to help you feel more at ease. Many dental offices, including Dental Depot, are trained to accommodate nervous patients with calm, judgment-free care.
Choosing a morning or early afternoon appointment when the office is less busy can help reduce sensory overload and give you more time to ask questions without feeling rushed.
Listening to music or a calming podcast with headphones during your visit can help keep your mind off the procedure and ease your nerves.
If it’s been a long time since your last dental visit, don’t worry—you’re not the only one, and it’s never too late to start fresh. Dentists understand that life happens, and most are focused on helping you move forward with care, not making you feel embarrassed.
Dentists see patients every day who are returning after long absences. What matters is that you’re taking a step toward better health. At Dental Depot, the focus is always on helping—not shaming.
Whether you’ve been flossing daily or haven’t picked up a toothbrush in a while, your dental team can only help you effectively if they know the full picture.
If it’s been more than a year, you may need a comprehensive exam that includes x-rays, gum health measurements, and possibly a deep cleaning to address plaque or tartar buildup.
Preparing your child for a dental checkup can help set the stage for a positive, stress-free experience—especially if it’s one of their first visits. A little planning can ease anxiety and make the appointment go more smoothly for both of you.
Use simple, reassuring language to explain what will happen at the dentist. Avoid words like “pain” or “hurt” and instead describe the visit as a way to keep their teeth strong and healthy.
Let your child role-play a dental visit with a toy or stuffed animal, or take turns pretending to be the dentist and patient. This helps familiarize them with the experience and builds confidence.
Choose a time when your child is well-rested and not hungry, and bring a favorite toy, blanket, or book for comfort. Having something familiar can make the environment feel less intimidating.
Does your child or the patient you are bringing have autism? Here are 7 tips for making the most of dental appointments with autism.
At Dental Depot of Arizona, we’re here for your routine dental care, no matter your age, stage of life, or current oral health condition. Whether it’s your very first checkup, your first visit in a long time, or just your regular appointment, our compassionate team is ready to help you feel prepared, informed, and comfortable every step of the way. With personalized care and a commitment to your long-term health, we’re here to support you in maintaining your best smile for years to come.
