Have regular dental check-up
For most people, a dental check-up per year is adequate. However, for those with
high risk or special needs, a dental check-up every six months may be necessary.
People with high risk or of special needs include:
• Mentally handicapped individuals
Mentally handicapped individuals may have difficulties in maintaining a basic level
of oral hygiene. They are very prone to Periodontal Disease
and Dental Caries.
• Patients who have received radiotherapy in the head and neck region
In the process of radiotherapy, normal oral tissues are affected. The treatment
may give rise to a decrease in saliva secretion and inflammation of the oral mucosa,
which may lead to Dental Caries and Periodontal Disease.
• Smokers
The chance of developing Periodontal Disease of smokers is five times higher than
that of non-smokers.
• Patients with disabling oral diseases
The patients with oral tumour or cleft palate need
to have frequent oral examination to maintain their oral health.
• Patients with systemic diseases
The immunity systems of patients with Diabetes Mellitus, Haemophilia or AIDS are
compromised, leading to a lowered body resistance to bacterial infections. If their
oral hygiene is poor, the dental plaque accumulated
on the tooth surfaces will easily give rise to Periodontal Disease. The disease
will then progress rapidly.