If your gums are tender, red, or swollen, or if they bleed easily, you may be suffering from periodontal disease. Also known as gum disease, this degenerative condition is caused by bacteria in plaque that accumulate on the teeth. Without treatment, periodontal disease can lead to the loss of teeth, gum tissue, and bone. While gum disease is not curable, it can be managed and kept under control to protect your oral health. Our dentist offers periodontal maintenance to help treat periodontal disease and prevent its serious effects.
Periodontal maintenance involves regular visits to our office, typically every three months, for a professional cleaning. These treatments include thorough cleanings above and below the gumline to remove plaque, tartar (hardened plaque, also known as dental calculus), and bacteria, preventing the condition from worsening. Periodontal maintenance is recommended every three months because periodontal bacteria begin to flourish within three to 12 weeks if biofilm is not removed. By providing a cleaning at 12 weeks (three months), we can effectively remove these bacteria and keep the condition under control.
To learn more about periodontal maintenance and how we can treat gum disease, please call or visit our office today.