Periodontal Maintenance
The main cause of periodontal disease is a sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth and gums called bacterial plaque. This plaque produces toxins that constantly attack your teeth and gums. It needs to be removed regularly, or it will harden into calculus. Although daily brushing and flossing certainly help to minimize calculus, it doesn’t completely prevent it. Unless your teeth and gums are professionally cleaned on a regular basis, bacterial plaque can cause a recurrence of gum disease. Your dental professional must check for hidden problems and remove the calculus at the recommended intervals to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Periodontal Maintenance is different from regular dental cleanings. Although in both cases the hygienist cleans the area above the gum line to remove plaque and calculus, during periodontal maintenance visits the hygienist also:
- Removes calculus from the gum pockets and beneath the gum line
- Smooths tooth roots to eliminate remaining bacteria
- Sometimes, places an antimicrobial solution in the gum pockets
- Uses X-rays and an examination by a Periodontist to show bone and gum recession and identify areas that may require additional attention
By maintaining your periodontal health, you save dollars - and discomfort - in the long run. Periodontal disease is the most common cause of tooth loss among adults. Maintenance visits help protect your gum health, your teeth, and prevent future dental problems. It is a very wise investment in your dental health.