When it comes to your health, taking care of your teeth and gums is crucial. Regular visits to the dentist are the best way to keep your oral health in good shape. A visit to a family dentist is often the best way to get this needed care. A family dentist focuses on general dentistry and typically provides the preventative care you and your family need. Here are three things to know about visiting a family dentist.

What Patients They See

If you are looking for dental care for your entire family, a family dentist can treat patients of all ages. Family dentistry works will patients ranging from children to adults and the elderly. Since a family dentist can work with patients of any age, it makes it easier to get dental care for your entire family. Since family dentistry offices offer services for all age groups, they are an excellent "one-stop" shop for dental care. 

What Services They Offer

The services offered by family dentists usually vary depending on the office, but general dentistry and preventative dental care are typically included. Preventive care includes dental cleanings, exams, and x-rays. Your family dentist will also offer general dentistry care, including cavity fillings and root canal therapy, among other treatments. Gum disease treatment is also provided at many family dentist offices. Some family dentist groups may also offer more specialized care, including orthodontics. When searching for a family dentist, select one who can meet your and your family's needs. 

How Much It Costs

Cost is another thing to keep in mind when visiting a family dentist. The procedures you need and the rates of your family dentist will impact your bottom line. How much going to a family dentist costs also depends on whether you have dental insurance. Typically insurance covers preventative care, but you will likely pick up a portion of the bill for dental treatments like root canals. Without insurance, a dental cleaning will cost $70 to $200. Root canal therapy costs anywhere from a few hundred dollars to a couple thousand, depending on the tooth that needs care. 

If you are visiting a family dentist, here's what to know. First, a family dentist can treat patients at any age. Second, family dentists provide a range of services from teeth cleanings to fillings. Finally, how much your visit to a family dentist costs depends on the care needed and whether you have dental insurance.