Greetings from Dental Innovations of Virginia! Today’s post focuses on an essential aspect of dental care for those recovering from periodontal disease: periodontal maintenance. We’ll explain what this treatment entails, how it differs from routine cleanings, and how it helps maintain the health of your gums and teeth. Let’s explore how this procedure plays a pivotal role in your oral health strategy.
What Is Periodontal Maintenance?
Periodontal maintenance is a specialized cleaning procedure recommended for patients who have been treated for periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease. This ongoing treatment is crucial in managing and preventing the progression of gum disease by thoroughly cleaning the spaces between the gums and teeth, where harmful bacteria tend to accumulate. The process involves the meticulous removal of bacterial plaque and tartar from both above and below the gum line. It is typically conducted every three to four months to ensure optimal gum health and stability, helping to halt the disease’s progression and maintain dental stability.
See also:
- Gum Disease Stages and How It’s Treated
- Oral Health for Seniors / Geriatric Dental Care
- Sensitive Teeth or Sensitive Gum?
How Is It Different from Regular Teeth Cleaning?
Unlike standard teeth cleaning that focuses on preventing dental issues through regular care, periodontal maintenance is a targeted therapy aimed at managing existing conditions. While regular cleanings remove plaque and tartar from visible tooth surfaces and just below the gum line, periodontal maintenance goes deeper. It cleans out the periodontal pockets and includes root planing to smooth the root surfaces, making it harder for bacteria to adhere and cause further damage. This type of cleaning is crucial for patients with a history of periodontal disease as it helps prevent the recurrence of the disease by maintaining the health of the gum tissue and bone.
How Does It Help to Protect/Maintain Your Gum Health and Preserve Your Smile?
Periodontal maintenance is vital for several reasons:
- Disease Management: It helps keep periodontal disease in check by removing the plaque and tartar buildup that is a major contributor to gum infections.
- Prevents Bone Loss: Regular cleanings of the deeper periodontal pockets help prevent the progression of bone loss around your teeth.
- Early Detection and Treatment: Frequent maintenance allows your dentist or hygienist to detect and address new or recurring problems before they become severe, thereby preserving your natural teeth and gum health​.
Does Insurance Cover It?
The coverage for periodontal maintenance can vary significantly depending on your dental insurance plan. Most insurance providers recognize the necessity of this treatment for patients with periodontal disease history and often cover it similarly to regular dental cleanings. However, it’s essential to review your specific insurance benefits as the frequency and type of coverage can vary.
If you have questions about dental insurance or specifics of what your plan covers regarding periodontal maintenance, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
About Dental Innovations of Virginia
Dr. Joon Coe, Dr. Julie Coe, and the team at Dental Innovations of Virginia are eager to assist you in enhancing your smile and achieving the best dental health possible. You can find us at our main office located in the Riverside Office Park, 19490 Sandridge Way, Suite 160, Lansdowne, VA 20176. Our office hours are from 9am to 6pm, Monday through Friday.
In addition to our primary location in Lansdowne, which serves the communities of Leesburg, Lansdowne, Ashburn, and the surrounding Loudoun County areas, we also provide flexible mobile services to accommodate our patients’ diverse needs. Our DIVA Mobile Clinic caters to residents of long-term care facilities, while our DIVA Home Visit service offers patients the convenience of dental treatments right in their homes.
At Dental Innovations of Virginia, we’re committed to providing you with comprehensive care that extends beyond your immediate treatment needs. Periodontal maintenance is not just a preventive measure; it’s a crucial component of managing periodontal health and ensuring the longevity of your smile. If you have any questions about periodontal maintenance or need to schedule your next appointment, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
