Periodontic

Periodontal Maintenance in St. George, Utah

At Apple A Day Family Dentistry in St. George, Utah, we know that maintaining healthy gums is just as important as keeping your teeth strong and cavity-free. If you have recently completed treatment for gingivitis or periodontal (gum) disease, congratulations! You are on the path to a healthier mouth, fresher breath, and a more confident smile. However, many patients make the mistake of thinking that successful treatment is the end of the journey. In reality, ongoing periodontal maintenance is essential to prevent the return of gum disease and protect the long-term health of your teeth and gums.

Why Periodontal Maintenance Is Important

Periodontal maintenance is a specialized type of dental care designed for patients who have been treated for gum disease. While procedures such as scaling and root planing or other periodontal treatments can effectively remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the teeth and gums, these conditions can return if proper care is not maintained. Periodontal maintenance is the most reliable way to ensure your gums remain healthy and that gum disease does not recur.

Gum disease is often silent in its early stages, meaning patients may not notice symptoms until the condition has progressed. Without regular maintenance, even teeth that appear healthy can become vulnerable to gingivitis or periodontitis, which can lead to gum recession, bone loss, and eventually, tooth loss.

What Is Included in Periodontal Maintenance?

A periodontal maintenance visit is more comprehensive than a regular dental cleaning. It includes several steps to ensure that your teeth and gums remain healthy:

Removal of plaque and tartar: Even after treatment, plaque and tartar can accumulate on teeth and below the gumline. Regular removal prevents harmful bacteria from causing inflammation.
Scaling and root planing: These techniques smooth the surface of the tooth roots and remove bacteria from deep periodontal pockets, reducing inflammation and promoting healthy gum attachment.
Polishing: Polishing the teeth removes surface stains, leaving teeth smooth and clean while helping prevent further plaque buildup.

The exact frequency of periodontal maintenance visits is determined by your dentist based on your individual needs. Some patients may require visits every three months, while others may need maintenance less frequently. Your dentist will develop a schedule that is tailored to your oral health status and risk factors.

Benefits of Regular Periodontal Maintenance

Maintaining a consistent periodontal maintenance routine provides numerous benefits:

Prevents recurrence of gum disease: Regular maintenance keeps bacteria, plaque, and tartar under control, reducing the risk of gum disease returning.
Protects your teeth and bone: Healthy gums support the underlying bone structure, helping to prevent tooth loss.
Improves overall health: Research has shown links between gum disease and systemic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Periodontal maintenance contributes to better overall health.
Promotes fresh breath and comfort: Healthy gums reduce inflammation, bleeding, and irritation, improving your comfort and confidence.

Periodontal Maintenance and Home Care

While professional maintenance is crucial, daily home care is equally important. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using antimicrobial mouth rinses can help keep bacteria at bay between visits. Your dentist may also recommend specialized tools or techniques based on your individual needs to optimize gum health.

At Apple A Day Family Dentistry, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive periodontal care that combines advanced technology, expert treatment, and personalized guidance. Whether you are recovering from gum disease or seeking preventative care, our team is here to ensure your gums remain healthy for years to come.

Investing in periodontal maintenance is one of the best ways to protect your smile and preserve your overall oral health. Healthy gums are the foundation of a strong, confident, and beautiful smile, and regular maintenance is the key to long-lasting results.