When it comes to your children's dental health, regular family dental care is a must. There are plenty of dentist offices that specialize in family dentistry and that offer care for all age groups. Taking care of your children's teeth and gums is a must. Starting early will ensure that they develop good oral hygiene habits and that their teeth and gums remain healthy as they head into adulthood. A startling 42 percent of children between the ages of 2 and 11 have dental decay in their primary teeth. Here's what you should know about dental care and your children.

Regular Cleanings and Checkups Are Needed

The first thing that you should know about your child and their oral health is when they need to start visiting the dentist and how often checkups and cleanings are needed. It's recommended that you take your child to their first dental checkup by their first birthday or 6 months after their first teeth appear. After the first visit, checkups and cleanings are recommended every 6 months in order to ensure that their teeth and gums are healthy and developing properly.

The Cost Can Vary

Another thing to consider when it comes to dental care and your family is the cost. Costs will vary depending on how many children you have, whether there are any issues with their teeth or gums, and also whether or not you have dental insurance. On average, a basic teeth cleaning and exam costs between $80 and $175 without insurance. Additional services, such as x-rays, can add an additional $100 to $300 per visit. Most dental insurance plans typically cover the cost of routine cleanings and checkups since it's considering preventative care. It's important to check your policy before heading to your family dentist.

Dental Sealants Can Help

When it comes to your child's dental care, dental sealants can be a great way to prevent dental decay. Sealants are added to the teeth in order to prevent decay. Once your child's permanent teeth start coming in, you may want to consider these sealants. Dental sealants range in price between $30 and $40 per tooth. They have been shown to reduce cavities in children by up to 60 percent for four years or even longer. Sealants are a great way to defend against dental decay.

When it comes to dental care and your children, there are a few things that you should know. First, it's important to know when to start seeing the dentist and how often your children will need checkups and cleanings. Costs can vary, but most dental insurance policies cover cleanings and checkups. Dental sealants can also help prevent dental decay when your child's permanent teeth start coming in. For more information, contact a local clinic like Rupp and Grabowski Family Dentistry.