What Is Periodontal Maintenance and Why Is It Important?

Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. For patients who have experienced gum disease, maintaining that health requires more than just daily brushing and occasional dental cleanings. After undergoing treatment for periodontal disease, continued care is essential to prevent it from returning or progressing. That’s where periodontal maintenance comes in. This specialized cleaning helps keep gum disease under control and supports long-term oral health.
 

Understanding Gum Disease

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common inflammatory condition that affects the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. In its early stage, called gingivitis, gum disease can cause redness, swelling, and bleeding during brushing or flossing. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form that damages the bone and connective tissue holding the teeth in place. Advanced gum disease can lead to tooth loss and has also been linked to other health conditions, such as heart disease and diabetes. Early detection and treatment are key to preventing long-term damage.
 

What Is Periodontal Maintenance?

Periodontal maintenance is a specialized dental cleaning performed at regular intervals after a patient has undergone treatment for periodontal disease, such as scaling and root planing. The goal is to manage the condition long-term and prevent further progression.

This type of cleaning targets bacteria and tartar buildup not only above the gumline but also below it, where periodontal disease begins. By thoroughly cleaning the pockets between your teeth and gums, periodontal maintenance helps prevent reinfection and supports gum healing.
 

How Is It Different from a Regular Cleaning?

A standard dental cleaning (prophylaxis) is designed for patients with healthy gums and involves cleaning the surfaces of the teeth and just slightly below the gumline. Periodontal maintenance, on the other hand, is much more in-depth and tailored to those with a history of gum disease.

Key differences include:

• Deeper Cleaning: Periodontal maintenance cleans beneath the gumline and into periodontal pockets where harmful bacteria thrive.

• More Frequent Visits: These cleanings are typically recommended more often than standard biannual cleanings.

• Monitoring Disease Progression: Your dentist or hygienist will monitor pocket depth, gum attachment levels, and inflammation at each visit.
 

Why Is Periodontal Maintenance Important?

Gum disease is a chronic condition. Even after successful treatment, harmful bacteria can quickly repopulate beneath the gums if not regularly managed. Without ongoing maintenance, there's a high risk of reinfection and further damage to the bone and tissues supporting your teeth.

Benefits of periodontal maintenance include:

• Preventing the return of infection

• Controlling inflammation and bleeding

• Reducing the risk of tooth loss

• Protecting overall health (since gum disease has been linked to systemic conditions like heart disease and diabetes)
 

Take a Proactive Approach to Gum Health

We provide personalized periodontal care to help our patients maintain strong gums and confident smiles. If you’ve had gum disease in the past or are experiencing symptoms like bleeding or swollen gums, we’re here to help.

Contact O.C. Lakes Dental to schedule your next periodontal maintenance appointment and take the next step toward a healthier smile. Visit our office in Irvine, California, or call (949) 356-7860 today.