 | Paul F. Mitsch, D.M.D. believes that this is such an exciting time to be a dentist. Innovations and refinements in technology and treatment options are introduced continually. To maintain a leading edge, he has added to his educational foundation with advanced training in the newest of the new techniques. Education: D.M.D. Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri. B.A., Biology, University of California at San Diego. Fellowships: Academy of General Dentistry, Academy of Dentistry International, and The International Congress of Oral Implantologists. Associate Fellowships: American College of Oral Implantology, American Society of Osseointegration. You can reach Dr. Paul Mitsch at (316) 775-2482 or stop by his office in Augusta at 401 State Street in the historical downtown district. |
Dental
2004-02-01 09:04:00
Is it time to see the dentist?
: How often should I go to the dentist?
ANSWER: There are routines that we all have on a daily basis. In our adult lives we have routines as well that we perform on schedules. Most of us agree that changing oil in our cars every 3,000 miles is a good routine to follow if we want our cars to run properly. In fact at one time we changed oil every 6 months or 6,000 miles. So routines change! Visiting the dentist is one routine that is not only a great suggestion but is also important for a number of reasons. The fact that infection is subtle means that a person with a dental infection may have no indicators such as pain or swelling and may compromise their health without being aware of it. Dental infection is linked to other systemic infections. At a routine dental visit these things may be discovered and taken care of before they become a nuisance or a threat. How often one goes to the dentist for an evaluation or a cleaning really depends upon the condition of their health and the condition of their mouth. In response to our general health we are beginning to understand that our day-to-day lives are so busy that we often compromise our health. It is estimated that in 10 years 40% of Americans will be obese if we do not change our daily habits. So in light of our daily health it is important to understand that some people may need to see a dentist every month while others may need to simply check and evaluate their dental condition once a year. The 15 year old in braces who is having trouble keeping their teeth and gum tissue clean would be an example of monthly maintenance and evaluation, a diabetic would be a more frequent visitor while a 22 year old who does not smoke or drink pop with a healthy diet may need only yearly visits. In relation to their mouth, a person with 20 fillings or 10 crowns and otherwise good health may need to see the dentist or hygienist 3 or 4 times a year. Our "maintenance schedules" need to be designed for our needs, depending on our general health and our existing dental needs and conditions.
