Preventative Care

The Foundation of a Healthy Smile

At Austin Institute of Dental Medicine, we believe that prevention is the key to long-term oral health. Regular preventative visits not only keep your teeth and gums healthy but also allow us to identify and address concerns early—before they become more complex or costly. Our patient-first approach combines advanced technology, compassionate care, and personalized education to help you maintain a bright, healthy smile for life.

Routine checkups and cleanings protect your smile, prevent costly problems, and support lifelong oral health. Learn more about preventative care by scheduling a visit with our team at AIDM today.

What Is Preventative Dental Care at AIDM?

Preventative dental care is the foundation of a healthy mouth. It includes regular checkups, cleanings, and protective treatments designed to stop problems before they start. At AIDM, prevention helps you avoid tooth decay, gum disease, and more serious conditions while supporting your overall well-being.

Benefits at a Glance

  • Maintain healthy teeth and gums with routine cleanings
  • Enjoy greater comfort through gentle, patient-first care
  • Protect your long-term health by detecting issues early
  • Benefit from advanced imaging and technology for precise exams
Close-up of a smiling woman with vibrant red lips and perfect teeth.

Who Needs Preventative Dental Care?

Preventative dentistry is recommended for patients of all ages. Whether you’re a child developing new teeth, an adult with a busy schedule, or a senior managing complex health needs, routine visits keep your smile strong.

Common reasons to schedule preventative care include:

Monitoring gum health and preventing periodontal disease

Detecting cavities and decay early

Protecting children’s teeth with fluoride and sealants

Managing conditions like dry mouth or teeth grinding

Supporting overall health with oral-systemic screenings

Patients with untreated gum disease or significant oral pain may require targeted treatment before resuming routine prevention.

The Role of Preventative Care in Total Wellness

At AIDM, preventative dentistry goes beyond cavity control. By monitoring your oral health, we can help reduce risks linked to systemic issues like cardiovascular disease and sleep disorders. Our collaborative, multi-specialty team ensures that if a concern arises, you’ll have access to expert care under one roof—whether you need periodontal therapy, orthodontics, or oral surgery.

What to Expect at Your Checkup

Step

1

Consultation & Imaging:

Review your health history, take digital X-rays if needed.

Step

2

Personalized Plan & Options Review:

Discuss your risk factors and prevention needs.

Step

3

Treatment:

Cleaning, fluoride, or sealants provided during your visit.

Step

4

Aftercare & Follow-Up:

Home-care instructions tailored to your needs.

Step

5

Long-Term Maintenance:

Keep up with regular checkups twice a year to maintain your oral health.

Our Preventative Treatments

Professional Dental Cleanings

Even with excellent brushing and flossing at home, plaque and tartar can accumulate in hard-to-reach areas. Professional cleanings are essential to keep your mouth in optimal condition. During your hygiene appointment, our skilled team will:

  • Gently remove plaque and tartar buildup that daily care can’t eliminate
  • Polish your teeth to reduce surface stains and freshen your smile
  • Check for signs of decay, gum disease, or other concerns at an early stage
  • Provide custom tips to improve your brushing and flossing technique
  • Perform an oral cancer screening and overall wellness check

Routine cleanings typically take place every six months, though patients with gum disease or other risk factors may benefit from more frequent visits.

Comprehensive dental examinations

Thorough evaluations of your teeth, gums, bite, and oral tissues are key to long-term oral health. Our dentists use digital X-rays when needed to create a full picture of your dental condition. At these comprehensive exams, we:

  • Examine teeth, gums, bite, and jaw function
  • Use digital X-rays to detect hidden problems
  • Screen for oral cancer and systemic health concerns
  • Review changes in your dental and medical history
  • Create a personalized plan to maintain or restore oral health

Most patients schedule a full examination once a year, but those with ongoing dental concerns or complex treatment plans may benefit from more frequent evaluations.

Flouride treatments

A professional fluoride application strengthens enamel and helps prevent decay, especially in cavity-prone patients. This simple, quick procedure:

  • Remineralizes weak spots in teeth
  • Offers painless protection in just minutes
  • Is particularly helpful for children and high-risk adults
  • Lasts through eating and brushing
  • Provides an added layer of defense against acid erosion

Fluoride treatments are typically recommended every three to six months for patients at higher risk of cavities and once a year for those with low risk.

Dental Sealants

Sealants are thin protective coatings placed on the chewing surfaces of molars to block decay in deep grooves and pits. When applying sealants, our team will:

  • Clean and dry teeth
  • Lightly etch for bonding
  • Paint on protective resin
  • Cure with a special light
  • Check each tooth for coverage

Sealants can protect teeth for up to ten years, though they should be checked at each routine visit to ensure they remain intact.

Custom mouthguards

A custom-fit mouthguard safeguards your teeth and jaw during sports or from nighttime teeth grinding (bruxism). Each appliance is crafted for maximum comfort and durability to:

  • Guard teeth from chips or fractures
  • Cushion jaw joints
  • Fit snugly for easy breathing
  • Use durable materials
  • Adjust for braces or dental work

Mouthguards should be replaced periodically—typically every one to two years—or sooner if growth, dental work, or heavy wear changes the fit.

Care & Comfort

Dentist displaying dental x-ray on tablet in a modern clinic.

Technology That Improves Your Care

At AIDM, prevention is powered by advanced technology that ensures accuracy and comfort.

  • Digital X-Rays: Immediate images with up to 90% less radiation than film.
  • Intraoral Cameras: Real-time visuals to help you see and understand your oral health.
  • AI-Enhanced Diagnostics: Early detection of cavities and gum issues.

When needed, sedation and monitoring are available for patients with anxiety or special healthcare needs.

Patient sitting in a modern dental chair, attended by a dentist in a clinic.

Your Comfort Comes First

We understand dental anxiety is common—even for routine visits. Our team creates a welcoming, gentle environment, with comfort options available when needed.

  • Nitrous Oxide
  • Oral Sedation
  • IV Sedation
  • General Anesthesia (when preventative care is combined with more complex treatment)

We also provide special accommodations for children and patients with sensory or medical needs, including caregiver coordination and desensitization visits.

Dental Practice
Regular Checkup
Healthy Smile
Thorough Dental Treatment