Periodontal disease is a chronic condition like diabetes. It is important to establish an ongoing program to maintain the improvements achieved during active treatment. Periodontal maintenance treatment intervals are best determined by your periodontist, and can range from 2-6 times per year. For patients with a significant amount of periodontal disease, the ADA, AAP and our office recommend visits every 3 months. These sessions are designed to preserve the healthy state of your gums and stabilize your bone levels. On-going treatment success is based on your home care compliance and the cleanings you receive in your periodontists offices.
What is done during a periodontal maintenance visit?
- Your mouth tissues will be examined for abnormal changes (oral cancer screening)
- Changes in your health will be discussed
- Pockets will be measured, noting any changes
- Your oral hygiene will be evaluated, with suggestions on how to improve it when needed
- Your teeth will be cleaned to remove bacterial plaque and calculus (tartar)
- Necessary x-rays may be taken to evaluate the teeth and supporting bone
- Your teeth will be checked for caries (dental decay)