Nov
Maintaining healthy gums is crucial for oral health, especially if you’ve experienced gum disease. At Mint Dental in Meridian, ID, we understand the importance of periodontal maintenance in keeping your gums healthy and preventing further issues. If you’re curious about what periodontal maintenance involves and how it can benefit you, this FAQ guide will help answer your questions.
A specific dental cleaning technique called periodontal maintenance is for people receiving treatment for gum disease. Unlike regular cleanings, periodontal maintenance targets deep pockets between the gums and teeth to remove bacteria and plaque that can lead to infection or further gum recession. By keeping these areas clean, periodontal maintenance helps prevent the progression of gum disease, maintaining both your gum and oral health.
The frequency of periodontal maintenance appointments depends on your individual needs. Most patients have these cleanings every three to four months to prevent bacterial buildup and closely monitor gum health. Regular appointments help us detect any signs of recurrence early and adjust treatment if needed.
During a periodontal maintenance appointment, we examine your gums and measure any periodontal pockets to assess gum health. Then, we’ll thoroughly clean above and below the gumline to remove plaque and tartar buildup. This cleaning may involve scaling and root planing, which smooths the root surfaces to discourage bacteria from reattaching. While periodontal maintenance is a deeper cleaning than a routine visit, we strive to make the experience as comfortable as possible for all our patients.
While regular cleanings and periodontal maintenance involve plaque removal, periodontal maintenance is more intensive. Regular cleanings are surface-level and focus on removing buildup above the gumline. Periodontal maintenance, on the other hand, is a more in-depth procedure that targets below the gum line and addresses periodontal pockets to prevent bacteria from reinfecting vulnerable areas after gum disease treatment. This makes periodontal maintenance an essential tool for long-term gum health.
Yes! Periodontal maintenance is designed to prevent the progression of gum disease, one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. By maintaining gum health and preventing further tissue damage or bone loss, periodontal maintenance reduces the risk of tooth loss associated with advanced gum disease. Patients who adhere to regular periodontal maintenance appointments experience improved long-term outcomes for their gums and teeth.
Consistent periodontal maintenance is key to maintaining healthy gums and preventing gum disease from progressing. If you’re ready to take the next step in preserving your oral health, Mint Dental in Meridian, ID, is here to help. Call us today at (208) 900-4669 to schedule your periodontal maintenance appointment and give your gums the expert care they deserve!