Key Aspects of Periodontal Maintenance:

1. Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing)

  • During periodontal maintenance, the dentist or hygienist performs scaling and root planing, which involves cleaning both above and below the gum line to remove plaque and tartar buildup. This is important for preventing bacteria from accumulating in periodontal pockets (the spaces that form when the gums pull away from the teeth due to gum disease).

  • Root planing smooths the tooth root surfaces to discourage further bacterial growth and help the gums reattach to the teeth.

2. Examination of Gum Health

  • The periodontist or dentist closely monitors the health of your gums by measuring the depth of the pockets around each tooth. Healthy gums have shallow pockets (1-3 mm deep), while deeper pockets (4 mm or more) can indicate the persistence or recurrence of gum disease.

  • The gums are checked for signs of inflammation, bleeding, or recession, which may indicate disease activity.

3. Monitoring Bone Health

  • X-rays may be taken periodically to assess the health of the bone supporting the teeth. This is important because gum disease can cause bone loss, and early detection of any changes is critical to preventing further damage.

4. Plaque and Tartar Removal

  • As periodontal disease-prone areas are difficult to clean thoroughly with regular brushing and flossing, removing plaque and tartar during maintenance visits helps reduce the risk of bacterial growth and subsequent gum inflammation.

5. Assessment of Risk Factors

  • Your dentist will evaluate any potential risk factors, such as smoking, diabetes, stress, or genetic predispositions that could affect the progression of periodontal disease. This helps tailor recommendations and preventive strategies for each patient.

6. Treatment Adjustments

  • If signs of active periodontal disease are detected during a maintenance visit, additional treatments may be recommended, such as localized antibiotic therapy, laser treatments, or even retreatment with more advanced periodontal therapies.

7. Education and Home Care Guidance

  • Patients receive ongoing guidance on effective oral hygiene practices, such as proper brushing, flossing, and using interdental brushes or water flossers. Maintaining excellent home care is critical for preventing the return of periodontal disease.

Frequency of Periodontal Maintenance Visits

  • Periodontal maintenance is typically scheduled every 3 to 4 months, depending on the individual’s condition. More frequent visits help to manage the disease because gum disease tends to progress silently, often without noticeable symptoms.

Benefits of Periodontal Maintenance:

  • Prevents Recurrence: Regular cleaning and monitoring help prevent gum disease from returning.

  • Stops Disease Progression: It halts the advancement of gum disease and minimizes the risk of further tissue or bone loss.

  • Maintains Oral Health: Consistent maintenance helps retain your teeth and reduces the chances of needing more invasive treatments in the future.

  • Improves Overall Health: Since periodontal disease is linked to other health issues like cardiovascular disease and diabetes, keeping your gums healthy contributes to your overall well-being.

In summary, periodontal maintenance is essential for patients with a history of gum disease, as it focuses on controlling the disease and preventing further damage.