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?

Andrew, not familiar with the term scaling, but I was advised to get a teeth cleaning 3x/year. I've done this for the 6 years post rads and, knock on wood (my teeth, maybe?) I've been fine. Look forward to reading what others have to say.

Andrew, I'm not familiar with the term scaling either. I googled it, and it sounds like teeth cleaning. Am I missing something?

Since my treatment ended, I go for a dental check-up and cleaning every 3-4 months. The cleaning is done by a registered dental hygienist (RDH).

I think scaling is more of a deeper cleaning, down below the gum line. Please correct me if this is wrong.

Yes, I was talking about a periodontal cleaning that goes deep below the gum line.

But now that you pointed out the difference, it would be interesting to hear what sort of cleaning people are getting and how often.

1. Periodontal goes very deep below the gum line. Also called scaling and root planing.

2. Normal dental goes below the gum line but not deep.

3. Extra conservative avoids even touching the gum.

4. Maybe something else I have not listed.

What kind of cleaning do you get, and how often. Have you had any problems.

In my case, I was first told that the dentist must stay one millimeter above the gum line, never even touching the gum. Now I'm at the other extreme getting periodontal cleaning. I was also told to never allow a technician to use an ultrasonic cleaner.

I found this helpful understanding the scaling and root planing.

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scaling_and_root_planing

I get regular cleanings every 3-4 months by a Dental hygienists, my dentist then gives me the full exam after every cleaning!! Semper-Fi Bob

Paul, thanks for that link. A very informative article about procedures that I hope never to need!

It looks to me like nobody (at least who replied) is getting periodontal scaling. You are getting dental cleaning 2-4 times a year.

Where there any special instructions given regarding the cleanings?

I get them scaled every 3 months. My Dentist consulted my RO and no issues were raised by her. I trust her completely. My dentist group is your generic family group, but they consult my RO before each major issue (root canals ect.)

I think it depends on the nature of the cancer, my tumor was very small but spanned the area between base of tongue and my tonsil.

I am 40 years young and just had a scope yesterday by the ENT that told me it couldn't look better. Almost 2 years from diagnosis right now.