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Clinical Inquiries: What is the optimal frequency for dental checkups for children and adults?
Thomas W Hahn1, Connie Kraus1, Christopher Hooper-Lane2
1University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, Madison, WI, USA.
Abstract:
IT IS UNCLEAR, but studies suggest that it should be based largely on individual risk. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a 6-month interval for preventive dental visits (strength of recommendation [SOR]: C, expert opinion), but a 24-month interval does not result in an increased incidence of dental caries in healthy children and young adults or increased incidence of gingivitis in healthy adults (SOR: B, a single randomized controlled trial [RCT]). In adults with risk factors (eg, smoking or diabetes), visits at 6-month intervals are associated with a lower incidence of tooth loss (SOR: C, a retrospective cohort study). Children with risk factors (eg, caries) may benefit from a first dental visit by age 3 years (SOR: C, a retrospective cohort study).
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