The frequency of your periodontal maintenance visits will vary according to individual needs. However, studies show that after scaling and root planing it only takes three months for the bacteria to accumulate in the pockets between your gums and roots. Most patients are able to stay healthy when they schedule maintenance visits at three-month intervals. At periodontal maintenance appointments, our hygienist will clean and disinfect above and below the gums, measure bone levels, and take x-rays. Dental insurances generally require an out-of-pocket expense for periodontal services such as maintenance or scaling. This is a small price to pay because periodontal disease is the number one cause of tooth loss. 

Our hygienist may detect one or more areas of the mouth that have begun to relapse, in which case we can treat the area before it becomes a bigger problem. If there has been no change that means your periodontal maintenance schedule is working for you! 

Good periodontal health and dental health in general has many proven benefits that extend beyond teeth. It can affect blood sugar regulation in diabetics, as well as your heart, respiratory, and reproductive health. Don’t underestimate your periodontal maintenance appointment…it is so much more than “just a cleaning!”