Is Periodontal Maintenance Worth It?

Periodontal maintenance is important in dental care if you have or have had periodontal (gum) disease. Periodontal maintenance removes plaque, tartar, and other bacteria from the teeth and gums to prevent the recurrence or progression of gum disease. This is typically accomplished through regular dental cleanings every 3 to 4 months, depending on the needs of the individual.

While some people may wonder if periodontal maintenance is worth the cost and time commitment, it is critical to consider the consequences of untreated gum disease. Gum disease can cause tooth loss, bone loss, and other serious health issues such as heart disease and stroke.

Regular periodontal maintenance can help prevent these complications and keep the teeth and gums healthy.

Periodontal maintenance can also improve overall oral health and hygiene. Plaque and tartar removal can help prevent cavities, bad breath, and other dental problems. Regular dental cleanings can also allow for the early detection of other dental issues, such as cavities or gum recession, which can then be treated before they worsen.

While periodontal maintenance may necessitate more frequent dental visits and be more expensive than routine dental care, it is an investment in the long-term health of the teeth and gums. The cost of treating advanced gum disease or other dental problems caused by untreated gum disease can be significantly higher than the cost of preventive care. Furthermore, many dental insurance plans cover at least a portion of periodontal maintenance costs.

Individuals with a history of gum disease should prioritize regular periodontal maintenance as part of their dental care routine to maintain good oral health and avoid more serious dental health problems in the future.

How Often Should Periodontal Maintenance Be Done?

Periodontal maintenance visits can vary in frequency depending on the individual’s specific needs and the severity of their periodontal disease. Periodontal maintenance visits are generally recommended every 3 to 4 months for people with a history of periodontal disease or at high risk of developing it.

A dental professional will thoroughly clean the teeth and gums during periodontal maintenance visits, removing plaque, tartar, and other bacteria that can contribute to gum disease. Your dentist will also look for any signs of inflammation, infection, or other dental issues requiring additional treatment.

Periodontal maintenance visits may be adjusted depending on the individual’s response to treatment and overall oral health. For example, if a person shows signs of improvement and maintains good oral hygiene habits, they may be able to delay periodontal maintenance visits by 4 to 6 months.

Individuals with a history of periodontal disease should follow their oral surgeon’s recommendations for periodontal maintenance visits and practice good oral hygiene at home, such as brushing twice a day, regularly flossing, and using an antimicrobial mouthwash as directed.

Individuals with severe periodontal disease or other health conditions that increase their risk of developing gum disease may require more frequent periodontal maintenance visits. Individuals should consult with their dentist in Greeley, CO, to determine the appropriate frequency of periodontal maintenance visits for their specific needs.

Is Periodontal Maintenance The Same As Deep Cleaning?

Periodontal maintenance and deep cleaning are both important procedures in the prevention and treatment of periodontal disease, but they are not interchangeable.

Periodontal maintenance entails cleaning the teeth and gums regularly to prevent the recurrence or progression of gum disease. Cleanings are usually performed every 3 to 4 months and involve the removal of plaque, tartar, and other bacteria from the teeth and gums. The goal of periodontal maintenance is to keep the gums and teeth healthy and to prevent further damage to the gums and teeth.

Deep cleaning, which involves root planning and scaling, is a more intensive dental procedure used to treat active periodontal disease. At Affordable Dental Clinics, a dental professional will remove tartar and bacteria buildup from the teeth and gums and smooth the roots’ surfaces during a deep cleaning to prevent further infection and promote healing. Depending on the gum disease’s severity, this procedure may be completed in single or multiple visits at the dental office.

While both periodontal maintenance and deep cleaning involve cleaning the teeth and gums, the goals and frequency of cleaning differ. Periodontal maintenance is a preventative measure aimed at preserving oral health and preventing the recurrence of gum disease after treatment. Deep cleaning is a gum disease treatment that is usually more intensive and targeted.