Dental Care As An Adult: What To Know

When it comes to dental care during childhood and adolescence, it's typically the responsibility of the parents to make sure that the teeth and gums are properly taken care of. While good dental care during youth can set the stage for healthy teeth and gums throughout your lifetime, it's up to you as an adult to take care of your dental care needs. However, too many adults forgo regular dental services and pay the price. Here's what to know about dental care as an adult.

Dental Decay Is Prevalent

The first thing that you should know is that dental decay is far more common than you may realize. A startling 91 percent of Americans between the ages of 20 and 64 have at least some dental decay. Many incorrectly believe that if there's no pain, there are no problems. However, dental decay can creep in slowly without causing pain until the damage is done. This is why regular visits to the dentist are a must. Regular cleanings and checkups can help your dentist identify the early signs of dental decay and address them before they become a larger and often painful problem.

The Cost of Care

Another thing to consider as an adult is the cost of dental care. Costs can vary significantly depending on the procedures needed and whether or not you have insurance. A routine teeth cleaning without dental insurance typically ranges between $75 and $200. If you have dental insurance, cleanings are often completely covered at least once or twice per year since it's preventative care. Without insurance, filling a cavity typically ranges between $90 and $250. Other procedures, such as root canals and dental crowns, can cost hundreds or even thousands even with dental insurance. 

How Often You Need Care

When it comes to dental cleanings and checkups, chances are your needs will be different than other people's. How often dental care is needed can vary significantly depending on diet, underlying medical conditions, oral care habits, and other factors. Experts recommend going to the dentist at least twice per year for preventative dental services for most people. However, if you are not cavity prone and have good habits, you may only need to go once per year. Those who are cavity prone or who have certain medical conditions may need to go more often.

Dental care as an adult is essential. However, it's easy to skip out on going to the dentist. There are a few things that you should be aware of when it comes to adult dental care. First, decay is more common than you think, and it's important to be on alert for early signs of trouble. The cost of dental services varies, but typically, preventative care is more affordable than treating decay. How often you need a checkup and cleaning can vary, but most people go twice per year.