Dental Cleanings & Exams
The foundation of a healthy smile. Regular cleanings and comprehensive exams catch problems early, prevent gum disease, and keep your teeth looking and feeling their best.
Regular dental cleanings are the single most effective thing you can do to prevent cavities, gum disease, and costly dental problems down the road. At Summit Ridge Dental, our skilled hygienists and dentists provide thorough, gentle cleanings and comprehensive exams at all three locations — with Saturday hours for your convenience.
What Happens During a Dental Cleaning?
Your hygienist removes plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) from all tooth surfaces, including below the gum line where your toothbrush cannot reach. Teeth are then polished to remove surface stains and flossed to ensure every space between teeth is clean. If needed, fluoride treatment is applied to strengthen enamel and protect against decay.
What Is Included in a Comprehensive Dental Exam?
Your dentist performs a thorough evaluation including a visual inspection of all teeth and existing restorations, digital X-rays to detect decay, bone loss, and other issues not visible to the eye, gum health evaluation (measuring pocket depths around each tooth), oral cancer screening of soft tissues, bite and jaw joint assessment, and a personalized treatment plan if any issues are found.
For new patients, we offer a $79 exam, X-ray, and cleaning special — a $350 value. Learn more about our new patient offer.
How Often Should I Get a Dental Cleaning?
The American Dental Association recommends visiting the dentist at least twice a year for preventive cleanings and exams. Patients with a history of gum disease, diabetes, or other risk factors may benefit from cleanings every three to four months. Your dentist will recommend the right schedule based on your individual needs.
How Much Does a Dental Cleaning Cost in Scottsdale?
A routine cleaning and exam typically costs $150 to $350 without insurance. Most dental insurance plans cover two preventive cleanings per year at 100%. We are in-network with Delta Dental, Cigna, Aetna, MetLife, UnitedHealthcare, and many other plans.
No insurance? Our Summit Savings Plan ($299/year) includes two cleanings, exams, and sets of X-rays per year, plus 15% off all other treatments. It is an excellent alternative to traditional dental insurance.
Cleaning & Exam FAQs
Every six months for most patients. Every 3–4 months if you have gum disease or higher risk factors.
Routine cleanings are generally not painful. Slight sensitivity in areas with tartar buildup is normal. Let us know if you have sensitive teeth — we offer comfort measures including numbing gel.
$150–$350 without insurance. Most plans cover 2 cleanings per year at 100%. Our Summit Savings Plan includes cleanings for $299/year.
Yes! We are accepting new patients at all three locations. New patients receive a $79 exam, X-ray, and cleaning special.
Related Preventive Services
Your Smile Starts with Prevention
Book your cleaning at any of our three locations. New patients: $79 exam, X-rays, and cleaning.