Periodontal Maintenance
Periodontal maintenance is the cornerstone of successful therapy. The goal is to prevent or minimize the occurrence and progression of periodontal disease, prevent tooth loss and monitor oral health. The addition of an adequate maintenance program is a key factor in the success of a variety of periodontal therapy techniques. Periodontal maintenance therapy is also critical for patients with implants in order to maintain peri-implant health.
Maintenance therapy is typically performed every 3 months and is personalized for each patient. The rationale behind this frequency is based on the time required for bacterial repopulation following treatment, with multiple studies showing clinical success with this interval. Occasionally, this schedule may need to be customized even further for some patient. Re-treatment is needed at times and is considered a part of the maintenance phase of periodontal therapy.
Why Periodontal Maintenance Matters
Periodontal maintenance plays a vital role in protecting your long-term gum health once you have been treated for periodontal disease. After gum disease has been diagnosed and treated, harmful bacteria can gradually return beneath the gum line, leading to inflammation, periodontal pockets, bone loss, and eventually tooth loss if left untreated. A structured maintenance program helps prevent periodontal disease from recurring by controlling bacteria, supporting gum attachment, and monitoring areas prone to infection.
Unlike routine cleanings, periodontal maintenance is designed specifically for patients with a history of gum disease or periodontitis. These visits help keep your gums healthy, reduce your risk of complications, and protect the results of previous periodontal treatment, such as scaling and root planing, deep cleaning procedures, or surgery. Regular, ongoing care is essential to maintaining a healthy mouth and preventing further damage.
What Happens During a Periodontal Maintenance Visit
A periodontal maintenance appointment goes far beyond a standard dental cleaning. It involves a thorough evaluation of your gum health and targeted cleaning techniques to remove bacteria below the gum line. Your visit may include:
- Review of medical and dental history to identify changes that may affect gum health
- Dental exams to assess periodontal pockets, attachment levels, gum recession, and inflammation
- Periodontal cleanings, which are more detailed than regular prophylaxis cleanings
- Careful removal of plaque, tartar buildup, and harmful bacteria from the entire length of the root surfaces
- Scaling and root planing–style cleaning in areas where deeper pockets are present
- Monitoring for signs of bone loss, tooth mobility, or other complications
- Evaluation of your home care routine so you can better maintain health between visits
A dental hygienist or periodontist performs these cleanings with instruments designed to reach below the gum line, where routine cleanings cannot. This level of care helps control bacterial growth and inflammation, protecting your teeth and gums long term.
When Re-Treatment Becomes Necessary
Even with consistent maintenance, some patients may experience areas where inflammation or pocket depth increases again. If the gums show signs of active disease, targeted retreatment may be recommended. and may involve:
- Additional scaling and root planing
- Local antimicrobial therapy
- More frequent periodontal maintenance visits
- Evaluation for surgical procedures if bone or attachment loss continues
Periodontal disease is a chronic condition, and periodic re-treatment helps keep your gums healthy and stable.
The Link Between Periodontal Maintenance and Overall Health
Keeping gum inflammation under control simultaneously protects your teeth and supports your overall health. Research shows a strong connection between chronic gum disease and systemic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and other severe health issues. When inflamed gums harbor bacteria, they can enter the bloodstream and lead to inflammation throughout the body.
Consistent periodontal maintenance helps reduce harmful bacteria, lowers inflammation, and decreases the risk of complications that may affect not only your mouth but your general health. Maintaining gum health is an important step in supporting your total well-being.
Periodontal Maintenance vs. Regular Dental Cleanings
While a routine cleaning focuses on removing plaque and tartar above the gum line and is intended for patients without gum disease, periodontal maintenance is tailored for those who have previously treated periodontal disease. Periodontal maintenance cleans both above and below the gum line, including root surfaces, while regular cleanings generally cannot reach deep pockets.
Protect Your Investment in Your Health
Your periodontal treatment protects the foundation of your smile; by controlling bacteria, preventing inflammation, and reducing your risk for reinfection, maintenance visits help keep your smile strong and beautiful. Schedule your periodontal maintenance appointment today and take the next step in safeguarding your oral health and overall well-being.