Periodontal maintenance is a specialized form of dental care tailored to individuals with gum disease, aiming to effectively manage and control the condition. Unlike routine dental cleanings, periodontal maintenance involves deeper cleaning of the gums and tooth roots to remove bacterial deposits, prevent disease recurrence, and preserve gum health.
These appointments, typically scheduled every three to four months, include comprehensive examinations, deep cleanings (scaling and root planing), evaluation of pocket depth, personalized oral hygiene guidance, and assessment of treatment response. Periodontal maintenance is essential for preventing disease progression, preserving natural teeth, and maintaining oral health and well-being.
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease, often called gum disease, is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. It typically begins with gingivitis, characterized by inflammation and bleeding of the gums. If left untreated, it can progress to more advanced stages, leading to gum recession, bone loss, and eventual tooth loss.
Periodontal disease is caused by the buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth, which harbor harmful bacteria that irritate the gums and trigger an immune response. Various factors contribute to the development of periodontal disease, including poor oral hygiene, smoking, genetic predisposition, hormonal changes, and systemic conditions such as diabetes. Effective treatment and management of periodontal disease are essential to prevent further damage and preserve oral health.
The Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
- One of the earliest signs of gum disease is inflammation of the gums, known as gingivitis. This can manifest as redness, swelling, and tenderness of the gums.
- Healthy gums should not bleed during routine activities such as brushing or flossing. Bleeding gums, especially when accompanied by inflammation, can indicate gum disease.
- As gum disease progresses, the gums may recede or pull away from the teeth, exposing the tooth roots. This can lead to increased tooth sensitivity and changes in the smile's appearance.
- Gum disease can cause the formation of pockets or spaces between the gums and teeth. These pockets may deepen over time, providing a conducive environment for bacteria to thrive and leading to further damage to the gums and supporting structures.
- Chronic bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be a sign of gum disease. Bacteria in the mouth release foul-smelling gases as they feed on food particles and other debris, contributing to unpleasant breath odor.
- Advanced gum disease can result in the loss of bone support around the teeth, leading to tooth mobility or loosening. This can affect the stability of the teeth and may eventually result in tooth loss if left untreated.
- As gum disease progresses, changes in the alignment of the teeth or the way the teeth fit together (bite) may occur. This can result from bone loss around the teeth and may cause discomfort or difficulty chewing.
- In severe cases of gum disease, pockets of pus may develop around the teeth and gums. This sign of active infection requires immediate attention from a dental professional.
What Does Periodontal Maintenance Involve?
Our dental professional thoroughly assesses the gums, teeth, and supporting structures. This examination helps evaluate the oral health status and identify any signs of disease or inflammation.
Periodontal maintenance primarily focuses on removing plaque, tartar, and bacterial deposits from below the gumline. This process, known as scaling and root planing, involves using specialized instruments to clean the surfaces of the tooth roots thoroughly and promote gum tissue healing.
Pocket depth measurements are taken to assess the depth of the spaces between the gums and teeth. Monitoring changes in pocket depth over time helps track gum disease progression and treatment effectiveness.
Patients receive personalized guidance on effective oral hygiene techniques tailored to their needs. This includes proper brushing and flossing and the use of adjunctive tools such as interdental brushes or antimicrobial mouth rinses.
The success of periodontal maintenance is evaluated based on improvements in gum health, inflammation reduction, and disease process stabilization. Additional treatment may be recommended if disease activity persists or worsens.
The Benefits of Periodontal Maintenance
Prevention of Disease Progression
Periodontal maintenance helps prevent the progression of gum disease by removing plaque, tartar, and bacterial deposits from below the gumline. This proactive approach reduces inflammation and prevents further damage to the gums and supporting structures of the teeth.
Preservation of Natural Teeth
Periodontal maintenance effectively manages gum disease, helping preserve natural teeth and prevent tooth loss. Regular deep cleanings and ongoing monitoring of gum health reduce the risk of advanced gum disease, a leading cause of tooth loss in adults.
Reduction of Systemic Health Risks
Research has shown that gum disease is associated with an increased risk of various systemic health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, respiratory infections, and preterm birth. By controlling gum disease through periodontal maintenance, individuals can reduce their risk of developing these serious health issues and improve their overall well-being.
Personalized Oral Hygiene Guidance
During periodontal maintenance appointments, patients receive personalized guidance on effective oral hygiene practices tailored to their needs. This includes proper brushing and flossing and the use of adjunctive tools to maintain optimal oral health between appointments. Call us to learn more.
Enhanced Long-Term Outcomes
By adhering to a regular schedule of periodontal maintenance appointments, individuals with gum disease can achieve and maintain long-term oral health outcomes. Consistent monitoring and management of gum health help prevent disease recurrence and minimize the need for additional treatments.
Periodontal maintenance is vital comprehensive dental care for individuals with gum disease. By receiving regular deep cleanings and being monitored by a dental professional, patients can effectively manage their condition and prevent the progression of periodontal disease. Visit Ali Haeri D.M.D., M.H.S. at 1297 W Main St., Suite A, El Cajon, CA 92020-4135, or call (619) 579-0505 to learn more.