5.4 Recall IntervalsDetermining Recall IntervalsCaries activity and other modifying factors determine patients’ risk categories and appropriate recall intervals. The Caries Risk Classification Table can help dentists take into account disease levels and modifiers during the classification process. Issues such as recall for periodontal, surgical, or prosthetic needs that may be relevant to certain patients are not addressed in this curriculum. Recall intervals range from 3 to 24 months.16,17 Modifying factors weigh heavily on the recall interval chosen for each patient. Factors can be protective or can place a patient at greater risk for caries. It is the dentist’s job to evaluate the caries activity and modifying factors so that the appropriate recall interval is chosen. Selecting a 24-month recall interval for a patient that has no new cavitated lesions but several new white spot lesions and has just started taking antihistamines that dry out her mouth will probably have negative consequences for that patient. Choosing a 6-month recall interval for a 30-year-old who has good oral hygiene, uses fluoridated toothpaste, and has had no new cavities since he was 16 years old places unnecessary demands on this patient’s time and money (e.g., in terms of transportation costs, cost of treatment, missed work, and child care) and also may result in another person who needs oral health care being unable to receive it. Most dentists recommend that patients adhere to a 6-month recall interval regardless of the patient’s risk category. Dentists should examine their reasons for recommending this recall interval and ask themselves if a longer one might be more appropriate. |
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