Preventive Dental Care in North Austin, TX
Regular cleanings and checkups are the foundation of a healthy smile — and the best way to avoid costly treatment down the road.
Why Preventive Care Matters
Most serious dental problems — cavities, gum disease, tooth loss — are preventable with consistent care. Catching issues early, when they're small, costs far less time and money than treating them after they've progressed. That's the core logic behind preventive dentistry, and it's why we encourage every patient to stay current with their regular checkups.
At Texas Capital Dental, preventive visits aren't rushed. We take time to do a thorough cleaning, review your X-rays carefully, and talk through anything we notice. If there's a concern, we explain it clearly and discuss your options before recommending any treatment.
What's Included in a Routine Visit
- Professional cleaning — removal of plaque and tartar that brushing and flossing can't reach
- Comprehensive exam — Dr. Sheinbein-Garner or Dr. Zayed checks your teeth, gums, jaw, and soft tissue
- Digital X-rays — low-radiation imaging to detect decay, bone loss, and issues between teeth
- Oral cancer screening — visual and tactile check of all oral tissue
- Fluoride treatment — strengthens enamel and helps prevent cavities, especially for children
- Dental sealants — thin protective coating applied to back teeth, ideal for kids and teens
- Gum disease assessment — periodontal probing to catch early-stage gingivitis before it progresses
How Often Should You Come In?
Most patients benefit from a cleaning and exam every six months. Some patients — particularly those with a history of gum disease, frequent cavities, or certain medical conditions — may need to come in more often. We'll give you a personalized recommendation based on your specific situation.
Insurance & Medicaid
Preventive visits are typically covered at 100% by most insurance plans, including Delta Dental, Cigna, MetLife, and most PPO plans. We also accept children's Medicaid & CHIP for qualifying patients. If you're unsure about your coverage, our front desk team is happy to help you verify benefits before your appointment.
Gum Disease Treatment
If we detect early signs of gum disease, we may recommend a deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) to remove buildup below the gumline and give your gums a chance to heal. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults, but it's highly treatable when caught early.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I get a dental cleaning?
Most patients benefit from a professional cleaning and exam every six months. Patients with a history of gum disease, frequent cavities, or certain medical conditions may need to be seen every three to four months. We'll give you a personalized recommendation at your first visit.
Does insurance cover routine cleanings and exams?
Yes — preventive care (cleanings, exams, and X-rays) is typically covered at 100% by most insurance plans, including Delta Dental, Cigna, MetLife, and most PPO plans. We also cover preventive care for qualifying children under Texas Medicaid and CHIP.
What is included in a routine dental exam?
A routine visit includes a professional cleaning, a comprehensive exam by one of our doctors, digital X-rays, an oral cancer screening, and a fluoride treatment if indicated. If anything needs attention, we'll discuss your options before recommending any treatment.
At what age should my child have their first dental visit?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a child's first visit by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth erupting, whichever comes first. Early visits help establish good habits and give us a baseline for monitoring development.