Periodontal Maintenance Post-Operative Care
What You Can Expect at Your Appointment
During a periodontal maintenance visit, your care is focused on disease control and long-term gum stability. Your appointment may include:
- A comprehensive periodontal evaluation to monitor pocket depths and gum stability
- Removal of plaque, tartar, and bacteria above and below the gumline
- Irrigation or localized medicaments if needed to reduce inflammation
- Polishing of the teeth when appropriate
- Oral hygiene review with personalized recommendations
- Progress tracking compared to prior visits
How Periodontal Maintenance Differs From a Regular Cleaning
Regular cleanings are designed for patients with healthy gums and focus mainly on preventive care above the gumline. Periodontal maintenance is ongoing therapy for patients with gum disease and includes cleaning below the gumline to manage active bacterial sites.
Regular hygiene cleanings are typically scheduled every six months and do not include full periodontal charting beyond routine screenings. Periodontal maintenance visits are scheduled every 3–4 months and include detailed monitoring of periodontal pocketing and gum health over time.
Why Periodontal Maintenance Matters
Periodontal disease does not go away on its own. Without regular maintenance, bacteria can quickly return and cause further damage. Periodontal maintenance helps:
- Keep gums healthy
- Prevent bone loss
- Reduce inflammation
- Protect your overall health
- Maintain the results of previous periodontal treatment