This question is specifically about post radiation patients.

Is there a recommended frequency for dental scaling after radiation. I ask because I started out with one doctor who told me to never get my teeth scaled. And now I see a doctor who says I need it four times a year because I'm post radiation and cannot risk periodontal problems. But the fact is, every time I get a cleaning from him, I risk infection, which is also problematic for post-radiation people.

I worry that I've gone from one extreme to another. Are there any guidelines about this? Was your frequency changed post radiation?


Squamous cell carcinoma base of tongue. Lymph involvement unclear; staging placed at "2 or 3." Biopsy 4/18/2008. Treatment: IMRT every day for 7 weeks. Cisplaten once a week to sensitize cancer to radiation. Treatment ended 7/16/08. PET/CT shows no more cancer.