After you finish your main treatment plan, our dentist and team will schedule a series of regular visits to Inova Dental Clinic for you to receive periodontal maintenance. These maintenance appointments help prevent gum disease from returning to your mouth so you can continue to enjoy a healthy smile. To make your appointment with Dr. Jafari and learn more about periodontal maintenance in Sterling, Virginia, give us a call at 703-433-1400.
If you are experiencing tenderness, redness, swelling or easy bleeding of your gums, you could be dealing with periodontal disease, commonly referred to as gum disease. This progressive condition is triggered by bacterial buildup in plaque, which accumulates on your teeth surfaces. If left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to the loss of teeth, gum tissue and even bone.
If you have developed gum disease, effective management is crucial to safeguarding your oral wellbeing. Our skilled dentist offers scaling and root planing treatments and, following the completion of your treatment plan, periodontal maintenance. Periodontal maintenance is an important step in addressing gum disease, managing your condition and averting the more severe consequences of the disease.
The key to successful periodontal maintenance is keeping your scheduled visits to our clinic, typically every three months, for professional cleaning sessions. These treatments involve thorough cleanings both above and below the gumline, meticulously eliminating plaque, tartar (hardened plaque) and bacteria to prevent the condition from exacerbating. The recommended frequency of every three months stems from the fact that without timely removal of biofilm, periodontal bacteria can flourish within the span of three to 12 weeks. By administering cleaning sessions at the 12-week mark (three months), we effectively eliminate these bacteria and maintain control over the condition’s progression.
If you have questions about gum disease or periodontal maintenance, or to schedule an appointment with our dentist, we encourage you to reach out to our office today. Whether through a phone call or an in-person visit, we are here to provide you with the necessary insights and personalized care to ensure your oral health remains in optimal condition.
FAQ
What is periodontal maintenance?
Periodontal maintenance is a specialized cleaning procedure for patients with gum disease, performed at regular intervals to prevent further progression.
How often do I need periodontal maintenance?
The frequency varies but is typically every three to four months, depending on the severity of your condition.
What happens during a periodontal maintenance appointment?
Our dentist or hygienist will clean below the gumline, remove plaque and tartar and monitor the health of your gums and supporting structures.
Is periodontal maintenance different from a regular dental cleaning?
Yes, periodontal maintenance focuses on preventing and managing gum disease, whereas regular cleanings are preventive measures for overall oral health.
Can periodontal disease be cured with maintenance?
While periodontal maintenance cannot cure gum disease, it can effectively manage and control it to prevent further damage.