Periodontal Maintenance Procedure

Periodontics is the branch of dentistry that focuses on the area surrounding the teeth. This includes the soft tissue of the gums, the ligaments and bone that support and keep the teeth in place. Periodontal maintenance goes beyond the cleaning of the crowns of the teeth. The procedure also includes a careful examination of the gums and the condition of the roots of the teeth.

The Prevention of Periodontal, or Gum Disease

This periodontal maintenance is the effort put forth into being proactive in preventing gum disease. It starts with bacteria. We all have millions of bacteria in our mouth every hour of each day. If that bacteria are allowed to remain on the surface of a tooth it starts forming a sticky substance called plaque. This plaque harbors that bacteria which begins to work like an acid in attacking the enamel of the tooth. If the plaque is allowed to come in contact with the gums it will immediately cause an infection. As the infection is left unattended it creates several adverse health effects. All of this because of some unattended plaque.

What goes into Periodontal Maintenance?

Every single cleaning and maintenance program most likely will begin with x-rays. These show what is going on with the support system on the gum line. Then the teeth are cleaned professionally with a scaling tool or an ultrasonic device. After the plaque is totally removed from the crowns the dentist or hygienist needs to address the tooth below the surface. If the plaque is extensive a local anesthetic might be necessary to numb the tissue to allow for a deeper scaling of the teeth. One more level of maintenance might include the planing of the root. This is scaling going much further down the root. When the teeth and roots are cleaned and polished an antibiotic might be prescribed. Within several days the soft tissue will show improvement. The swelling will subside, the tenderness will go away, and the color will return to a nice healthy pink. The other issue that is evident is the sagging of the tissue away from the tooth. This is called a pocket. Large pockets are a negative byproduct of gum disease and are extremely tough to reverse. Periodontal maintenance can just halt and stymie any further destructive progress by preventing further disease and breakdown.

The Benefits of Periodontal Maintenance

If you have had gum disease it might be suggested that you have consistent periodontal maintenance every three to four months. The frequent removal of the bacteria carrying plaque will control soft tissue inflammation and protect that supporting system. It starts with you and the establishment of good oral hygiene habits at home. If you follow the suggestions of the health industry and brush your teeth well twice a day, floss once, you will go a long way to keeping that plaque in control. It is also suggested that you schedule dental examinations twice year. These x-rays develop a history of your oral heath and professionally clean your teeth of that plaque as well. Healthy teeth, healthy gums, healthy smile.

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