If you’ve ever been diagnosed with gum disease—whether it’s early-stage gingivitis or advanced periodontitis—you probably already know it’s more than just a dental nuisance. Gum disease can lead to bone loss, tooth mobility, and eventually, tooth loss. But what happens after treatment? That’s where periodontal maintenance comes in.
At California Dental Group, we provide specialized care to help patients maintain the results of their gum disease treatment and prevent recurrence. Periodontal maintenance isn’t just a deep cleaning—it’s a strategic approach to keeping your gums and overall oral health stable for life.
What Is Periodontal Maintenance?
Periodontal maintenance is a type of ongoing dental care designed specifically for patients who have been treated for gum disease. It typically involves:
- Scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar from below the gumline
- Monitoring of gum pocket depths and tissue response
- Targeted cleanings at regular intervals (often every 3–4 months)
Unlike standard dental cleanings, which are mainly preventive, periodontal maintenance is therapeutic. It’s a treatment that continues long after the visible signs of gum disease may have disappeared.
Why Can’t I Just Go Back to Regular Cleanings?
Once you’ve had gum disease, your mouth is more vulnerable to bacterial buildup and inflammation. The pockets around your teeth where bacteria once thrived can quickly become active again if not kept in check. Routine cleanings focus primarily on the visible surfaces of the teeth and may not address the deeper areas beneath the gumline.
Without ongoing periodontal maintenance, your risk of relapse increases dramatically. This is especially true if you’ve had bone loss, gum recession, or deep periodontal pockets in the past.
What to Expect During a Periodontal Maintenance Visit
At California Dental Group, a typical periodontal maintenance appointment may include:
- Comprehensive periodontal charting: We measure the depth of your gum pockets to monitor for signs of disease progression or improvement.
- Subgingival cleaning: Plaque and tartar are gently removed from under the gums, where they can cause the most harm.
- Targeted bacterial control: Antibacterial rinses or localized antibiotics may be used to reduce inflammation and bacterial activity.
- Ongoing education: We’ll help you refine your home care routine, including brushing technique, flossing, and the use of interdental brushes or water flossers.
These visits are tailored to your individual needs and can be adjusted over time as your gum health improves.
How Often Do I Need Periodontal Maintenance?
Most patients require visits every three to four months, depending on the severity of their condition and how well they’re maintaining their gum health at home. This schedule allows your dentist to intercept any new issues early, before they become more serious.
Over time, if your gum health remains stable, your dentist may gradually increase the interval between visits—but periodontal maintenance is often a lifelong commitment.
The Connection Between Gum Health and Overall Health
Research shows a strong link between gum disease and systemic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Inflammation in the gums can trigger inflammation in other parts of the body. That’s why maintaining healthy gums isn’t just about saving your teeth—it’s about protecting your total health.
Don’t Let Gum Disease Make a Comeback
If you’ve gone through the process of treating gum disease, you’ve already taken a major step toward better health. But maintenance is key. Without it, the same conditions that caused gum disease in the first place can return—even more aggressively.
Let California Dental Group help you protect your investment in your smile. Call us at 800-407-0161 today to schedule your next periodontal maintenance appointment and keep your gums healthy for the long haul.
