TO THE EDITOR:

"Rethinking Rote Trips to Dentist" (June 11) properly states that dental checkups need to be discussed with your dentist, who can determine your risk factors. The article, however, appears to focus on whether a patient has periodontal disease, which is just one of many potential risks that would require more frequent visits. An individual's susceptibility to oral decay is largely influenced by personal habits such as smoking, medications that dry the mouth, or even how well you brush and floss your teeth. All of those factors influence how frequently you need to see your dentist.

Joel M. Friedman, D.D.S.

Manhattan

The writer is president of the New York State Dental Association.