How Regular Cleaning Differs from Periodontal Maintenance

When you get your teeth cleaned at the dentist, it’s usually easy to understand what the procedure involves and why. You expect the dentist to brush, floss, and scrape off plaque and tartar. But what is “periodontal maintenance” and how is it different from an ordinary teeth cleaning?

Periodontics is the care and maintenance of the support structure of teeth, such as the gums, ligaments, and bones that keep teeth firmly anchored in the mouth. Periodontal maintenance is the careful cleaning of these structures to prevent periodontal disease.

Routine Teeth Cleaning

A routine cleaning is recommended for those who do not show signs of periodontal symptoms including bone loss and gum infection. This should be done a few times a year to remove soft plaque, tartar, and staining around the gum line. It is a preventive procedure that may help prevent periodontal problems.

Periodontal Maintenance

For patients with more severe oral health problems, periodontal maintenance is highly recommended. Some signs of periodontal problems include shifting or loose teeth and deep pockets in the gums, swollen, red, bleeding gums possibly exposing the tooth’s root. Periodontal maintenance includes scaling and root planing, where the dentist scrapes off plaque and tartar with a special tool. It is particularly important to address any plaque or tartar buildup below the gum line where bacteria can become trapped. Also, rough areas and pocket depths are closely monitored for signs of infection. Inflamed pockets are documented and treated carefully with antimicrobial medicine.

This procedure is performed every three months and consistently monitored by our periodontal specialists in order to prevent progression of the disease.

If you’re looking for a periodontist or dentist in Long Beach, Dr. Moshrefi and Dr. Daneshmand are board-certified periodontal specialists. The care and maintenance of your teeth and gums is essential to overall health. Give Bixby Knolls Dental Group a call to schedule an appointment.