If you’re like most people, you probably know that brushing and flossing are essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums, but did you know that there’s another step you can take to keep your smile in tip-top shape? That’s where periodontal maintenance comes in.
At our clinic, we believe in educating our patients on the importance of taking care of their gums just as much as their teeth. That’s why we want to share with you all the information you need to know about periodontal maintenance and why it should be a crucial part of your dental routine.
Gum disease is a common problem that affects millions of people and can lead to serious health issues if left untreated. But the good news is that with proper periodontal maintenance, it can be prevented and even reversed.
What Is Periodontal Maintenance?
Periodontal maintenance sounds like a fancy term, but it’s actually quite simple. In the world of dentistry, periodontal maintenance refers to the routine cleanings and check-ups that are done to keep your gums healthy. These cleanings go beyond the standard teeth cleaning you receive during a routine dental appointment.
Think of this treatment as a deep cleaning for your gums. During this appointment, your dentist or hygienist will thoroughly clean and examine the area around your teeth, including the gum line and the spaces between your teeth and gums. This allows them to get rid of any plaque, tartar, and bacteria that may have accumulated and cause gum disease.
Periodontal maintenance is especially important if you have been diagnosed with gum disease. In this case, your dentist may recommend more frequent cleanings to help keep your gums healthy and prevent the disease from progressing. But even if you don’t have gum disease, periodontal maintenance is still important. Regular cleanings can help prevent gum disease from developing and keep your smile healthy and beautiful.
What Happens During Periodontal Maintenance?
Your periodontal maintenance appointment will begin with a thorough evaluation of your gum health by one of our experienced dental professionals. This includes measuring the pockets around your teeth to determine the depth and extent of any gum disease, as well as examining the health of your gums, teeth, and jawbone.
Once your dental professional has assessed the state of your gum health, they will clean your teeth and gums to remove any plaque and tartar buildup. This is done using specialized tools, including ultrasonic scalers and hand instruments, to thoroughly clean below the gumline and remove any bacteria that may be causing gum disease.
In addition to cleaning your teeth and gums, your dental professional will also polish your teeth to remove any surface stains and leave your smile looking sparkling clean. And of course, they’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have and provide advice on how to maintain good oral hygiene at home.
Periodontal maintenance appointments are typically recommended every three to four months for those who have been diagnosed with gum disease, and once a year for those who are looking to maintain good gum health. With regular periodontal maintenance, you can keep your gums healthy and prevent the progression of gum disease, ensuring a beautiful and healthy smile for years to come.
Does Periodontal Cleaning Hurt?
We understand that dental appointments can be nerve-wracking, especially if you’re worried about pain. So, it’s only natural to wonder if periodontal maintenance will be painful. The good news is that periodontal maintenance is usually a pain-free and comfortable procedure.
If you have gum disease, you may experience some sensitivity or discomfort during your periodontal maintenance appointment, but your dentist will take steps to minimize this. They may use a numbing agent or a special technique to clean your teeth and gums more gently. They may also recommend using a desensitizing toothpaste to help reduce any sensitivity you may experience after the appointment.
The Benefits of Periodontal Maintenance
Periodontal maintenance may seem like just another dental appointment, but it actually has many benefits that go beyond a cleaner, healthier smile. Here are just a few of the many reasons why you should make periodontal maintenance a regular part of your dental routine.
- Prevent Gum Disease: As we mentioned earlier, periodontal maintenance is an effective way to prevent gum disease. By removing plaque, tartar, and bacteria from your teeth and gums, you can reduce your risk of developing gum disease and keep your smile healthy and beautiful.
- Reverse Gum Disease: If you’ve already been diagnosed with gum disease, periodontal maintenance can help reverse the damage. With regular cleanings, your dentist or hygienist can remove the bacteria that is causing the disease and help your gums heal.
- Maintain Good Oral Health: Good oral health is essential for your overall health and well-being. Periodontal maintenance is a critical part of maintaining good oral health and can help prevent tooth loss, gum recession, and other oral health problems.
- Save Money: Regular periodontal maintenance can actually save you money in the long run. By preventing gum disease and maintaining good oral health, you can reduce your risk of needing more expensive dental treatments down the line.
Invest in Your Oral Health Today!
We hope that this blog post has given you a better understanding of the importance of periodontal maintenance and why it should be a regular part of your dental routine. From preventing gum disease to maintaining good oral health, the benefits of periodontal maintenance are numerous and well worth the time and effort.
At our dental clinic, we’re dedicated to helping our patients achieve and maintain good oral health. That’s why we offer comprehensive periodontal maintenance services, including deep cleanings, gum disease treatment, and more. Our team of dental professionals is here to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile that lasts a lifetime.
So, what are you waiting for? Take the first step towards a healthier smile today and schedule your periodontal maintenance appointment today.
