This Week At UMC

How often should a person in good dental health see a dentist?

Every six months
Once a year
Every couple of years
Only when problems arise

Correct Answer : Most people should see a dentist every six months.

Traditionally, it has been recommended that an individual visit their dentist every six months. Even in a person with basically good dental health, there may be some minor changes which occur without the patient's knowledge, due to the fact that the early stages of most dental problems--caries, periodontal disease, oral cancer--are painless.

It may only be by a thorough examination that these changes are detected. In addition, even with good plaque control most people will form some calculus deposits, especially on their lower front teeth, over a period of months. As a person ages, the risk of oral cancer increases and a good visual and palpation exam is a must.

Depending on the patient's dental history and oral health track record, the six month interval may be lengthened or shortened. Most patients who have been treated for periodontal disease have a shorter recall interval, usually three to four months.

The occasional person with excellent plaque control, no history of decay, and no tobacco or alcohol use may have a 9-12 month recall interval. Dentistry believes that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and with regular check-ups many problems can be avoided and small ones detected and treated early.

Related Links:

23