Periodontal Maintenance in San Diego, CA

Maintain Your Healthy Smile and Gums

Following the completion of your periodontal treatment, Dr. Purps and your dental hygienist at Fine Dentistry in San Diego, CA, advocate for regular maintenance cleanings — typically four times a year. These sessions meticulously assess pocket depths to ensure their health. Removing plaque and calculus, challenging for daily removal occurs both above and below the gum line. To learn more or schedule an appointment, call (619) 295-6500.

What is Periodontal Maintenance?

Periodontal maintenance refers to a specialized dental care regimen designed to preserve and safeguard the health of your gums and supporting structures after undergoing periodontal treatment. This ongoing process involves regular dental cleanings, typically recommended four times a year. The primary focus of regular cleaning is on preventing the recurrence of periodontal (gum) disease and maintaining optimal oral health.

Importance of Periodontal Maintenance

The significance of periodontal maintenance cannot be overstated in the realm of oral health. It plays a pivotal role in:

Preventing Gum Disease Recurrence: Regular maintenance cleanings help control plaque and calculus, reducing the risk of gum disease resurgence.
Monitoring Gum Health: Periodontal maintenance appointments include careful assessments of pocket depths, ensuring early detection of potential issues, and prompt intervention.
Preserving Dental Structures: By addressing hard-to-reach plaque and calculus, maintenance cleanings contribute to the longevity of teeth and supporting structures.
Overall Oral Health: Beyond preventing gum issues, periodontal maintenance supports comprehensive oral health, including cavity detection, oral cancer screenings, and evaluation of existing dental restorations.

Periodontal Cleaning and Exams

Regular periodontal cleaning and exams are fundamental components of proactive dental care, promoting optimal gum health and overall well-being. This comprehensive approach includes various examinations and procedures aimed at preventing and addressing potential issues.

Tips for Preventing Gum Disease

In addition to regular periodontal cleaning and exams, adopting proactive habits can significantly contribute to preventing gum disease. Consider the following tips:

Consistent Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Floss daily to remove plaque from between teeth and along the gumline.
Healthy Diet: Consume a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. Limit sugary snacks and beverages, as they contribute to plaque formation.
Regular Dental Check-ups: Schedule routine dental check-ups and cleanings at our San Diego dental office to catch potential issues early.
Avoid Tobacco Products: Smoking and tobacco use increase the risk of gum disease. Quitting can improve oral health.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to promote saliva production, which helps neutralize acids and maintain oral health.
Manage Stress: Chronic stress can impact oral health. Practice stress-reducing techniques such as meditation or yoga.
Use Antiseptic Mouthwash: Consider using an antiseptic mouthwash with your dentist’s recommendation to reduce plaque.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I visit the dentist for gum cleanings and exams?

Regular visits for gum cleanings and exams are recommended at least four times a year for gum and bone health. This frequency of regular cleanings and root planing ensures thorough assessment, plaque and calculus removal, and ongoing monitoring of your gum health.

Is periodontal maintenance the same as deep cleaning?

While both involve thorough cleaning, periodontal maintenance is a routine, ongoing procedure to manage and maintain gum-full health after initial treatment. Deep cleaning, on the other hand, is an intensive procedure usually performed to address existing gum disease.

Does periodontal maintenance hurt?

Periodontal maintenance, like scaling and root planing, is typically comfortable. Local anesthesia may be used if necessary, ensuring a painless experience. Regular maintenance helps prevent discomfort by keeping your teeth and gums mostly healthy and minimizing the need for more invasive procedures.

Maintain Gum Health With the Same Level of Care as Your Smile!

Excellent oral hygiene and scheduling regular periodontal cleanings are indispensable for maintaining dental health and controlling periodontal disease effectively. At Fine Dentistry, Dr. Purps and our team in San Diego provide personalized gum and periodontal disease treatment care.

Learn more or schedule a consultation by calling (619) 295-6500 today. We welcome patients from Chula Vista, National City, and Lincoln Acres, CA.