A Study to Determine the Optimal Frequency for Conducting Periodic Dental Examinations (OFDEX)

Abstract : A mandatory annual dental examination is the most important element in the Army's Oral Health Maintenance Program. The annual requirement is based upon the premise that most individuals accrue sufficient dental problems during that interval to make dental treatment necessary. The objective of this study was to determine if there is a significant link between the volume and type of dental care needs and the time interval between routine periodic (non-emergency) dental examination.