Periodontal Maintenance
Healthy gums are essential for maintaining strong teeth and long-term oral health. For patients who have been treated for gum disease, routine dental cleanings alone may not be enough to keep the gums healthy. At Orangecrest Family Dental, we provide periodontal maintenance treatments designed specifically for patients with a history of periodontal (gum) disease. These specialized cleanings focus on removing harmful bacteria beneath the gumline and preventing the return or progression of gum disease. Periodontal maintenance plays a critical role in protecting both your gums and the bone that supports your teeth.
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What Is Periodontal Maintenance?
Periodontal maintenance is a specialized type of dental cleaning performed for patients who have previously been treated for gum disease.
Unlike standard dental cleanings, periodontal maintenance focuses on cleaning deeper areas
beneath the gums where bacteria and plaque can accumulate.
This treatment helps control bacteria that may cause inflammation, infection, and further gum recession.
Regular periodontal maintenance visits help stabilize gum health and prevent the recurrence of periodontal disease.
Who Needs Periodontal Maintenance?
Periodontal maintenance is typically recommended for patients who:
• Have been diagnosed with periodontal (gum) disease
• Have received deep cleaning treatment (scaling and root planing)
• Experience gum recession or bone loss
• Have deep gum pockets around teeth
• Need ongoing care to control gum inflammation
Patients with a history of gum disease require ongoing monitoring to maintain gum health and prevent future complications.
Benefits of Periodontal Maintenance
Periodontal maintenance treatments offer several important benefits for maintaining healthy gums.
Prevents Gum Disease Progression
Regular cleanings help remove bacteria that can cause inflammation and infection.
Protects Supporting Bone
Maintaining gum health helps protect the bone structure that supports the teeth.
Reduces Gum Inflammation
Removing plaque and bacteria helps reduce swelling, bleeding, and gum irritation.
Supports Long-Term Oral Health
Routine periodontal care helps prevent tooth loss caused by advanced gum disease.
Helps Maintain Previous Treatment Results
Patients who have received deep cleaning treatments benefit from continued maintenance care.
What Happens During a Periodontal Maintenance Visit
During a periodontal maintenance appointment, your dental team will focus on maintaining the health of your gums and supporting structures.
Typical steps may include:
Evaluation of Gum Health
Your dentist or hygienist will measure gum pocket depths and examine the gums for signs of inflammation or infection.
Removal of Plaque and Tartar
Specialized instruments are used to remove plaque and tartar from both above and below the gumline.
Cleaning of Periodontal Pockets
Areas beneath the gums are carefully cleaned to remove bacteria that contribute to gum disease.
Polishing of Teeth
Teeth may be polished to remove surface stains and improve overall cleanliness.
Ongoing Monitoring
Your dental team will monitor your gum health and recommend a personalized maintenance schedule.
How Often Is Periodontal Maintenance Needed?
Most patients who require periodontal maintenance are recommended to visit the dentist every three to four months.
More frequent visits allow dentists to monitor gum health closely and remove bacteria before it can cause further damage.
Your dentist will recommend a schedule that best supports your long-term oral health.
Maintaining Gum Health at Home
Proper oral hygiene at home plays an important role in maintaining healthy gums between dental visits.
Patients are encouraged to:
• Brush teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
• Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth
• Use antimicrobial mouth rinses if recommended
• Follow personalized oral hygiene instructions
• Attend all scheduled periodontal maintenance appointments
Consistent oral hygiene habits help protect the gums and maintain treatment results.
Periodontal Maintenance in Riverside, CA
At Orangecrest Family Dental, we are dedicated to helping patients maintain healthy gums and prevent the progression of gum disease.
Our periodontal maintenance program focuses on early detection, personalized care, and advanced dental techniques to protect your long-term oral health.
We proudly serve patients throughout:
• Riverside
• Orangecrest
• Mission Grove
• Woodcrest
• Moreno Valley
Our team is committed to providing comfortable and thorough periodontal care for every patient.
Schedule Your Periodontal Maintenance Appointment
If you have previously been treated for gum disease, regular periodontal maintenance visits are essential for protecting your oral health.
Contact Orangecrest Family Dental today to schedule your appointment and keep your gums healthy for years to come.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between periodontal maintenance and a regular cleaning?
Periodontal maintenance is designed for patients with a history of gum disease and focuses on cleaning deeper areas beneath the gums.
How often do I need periodontal maintenance?
Most patients are recommended to visit every three to four months, though your dentist may adjust the schedule based on your needs.
Is periodontal maintenance painful?
Most patients experience little discomfort during the procedure. Local anesthesia may be used if deeper areas require additional cleaning.
Can periodontal maintenance cure gum disease?
Periodontal maintenance helps control gum disease and prevent its progression, but ongoing care is necessary to maintain gum health.
What happens if I skip periodontal maintenance visits?
Skipping visits may allow bacteria to build up again, which can lead to worsening gum disease and potential tooth loss.
Does insurance cover periodontal maintenance?
Many dental insurance plans cover periodontal maintenance for patients diagnosed with gum disease. Coverage varies depending on the plan.
Can gum disease return after treatment?
Yes. Gum disease can return if bacteria accumulate again, which is why regular periodontal maintenance visits are important.