3 Things To Know About Adult Dental Care
When it comes to dental care, there's more to it than simply brushing and flossing. While daily oral hygiene does play a key role in keeping your teeth and gums healthy, regular visits to the dentist are also a must. For many adults, taking care of their teeth and gums can feel like a chore. Dental problems in adults are more common than you may realize. In fact, more than a quarter of American adults have cavities that have not been treated. Here are three things that you should know about taking care of your teeth and gums as an adult.
How Often to Go to The Dentist
The first thing that you should know as an adult is that how often you need to go to the dentist will vary depending on the individual. If you are prone to dental decay or have certain medical conditions, more frequent visits to the dentist may be needed. For those who rarely get cavities, fewer visits may be needed. Experts recommend that you go to the dentist every 6 months for preventative dental cleanings and exams. However, for many people, yearly visits are sufficient, while others need more frequent cleanings and exams.
The Cost of Dental Care
The cost of dental care as an adult will vary depending on whether or not you have dental insurance and also what type of dental issues you have. For an adult, the average cost of a checkup and dental cleaning averages out to between $150 and $250. Restorative dental care, such as fillings, typically costs between $500 to $750. Procedures such as crowns and root canals tend to be pricier and often cost upwards of $1,500. Having money set aside for dental care is key.
Gum Disease Is More Common
As an adult, it's important to note that gum disease is more common. In fact, half of Americans over the age of 30 have periodontitis, or gum disease. It's important to take steps to prevent gum disease as an adult. Regular cleanings and exams along with good oral hygiene are the best defense. If you are showing signs of gum disease, deep cleanings and other procedures may be needed. It's important to look for signs of gum disease, such as tender or bleeding gums, and seek out your dentist immediately if you notice these signs.
When it comes to adult dental care, there are a few key things to know. First, how often you need to go to the dentist will vary depending on your needs. The cost of dental care also ranges depending on what procedures are required and whether or not you have dental insurance. As you age, it's important to be on alert for the signs of gum disease and to seek out treatment quickly if your gums are tender or bleeding.
For more information, contact a local dental clinic like Hayden Dental.