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When a patient is diagnosed with periodontal disease the first step for treatment may involve scaling and root planing (also called a deep cleaning) and even periodontal surgery. A periodontal maintenance is the cleaning that is recommended to patients that have gum disease and have had scaling and root planing and/or periodontal surgery.

Periodontal maintenance is more complex than a normal cleaning. A periodontal maintenance cleaning removes plaque and calculus from above and below the gumline. Patients who have periodontal disease, or a history of it, need a deeper cleaning because they have pockets and spaces between the teeth and gums, deeper than those found in a person with healthy gums.

It is critical that periodontal maintenance procedures be performed on a regular basis once the disease is brought under control. Maintenance patients will need more frequent visits than other patients due to the periodontal disease making it more difficult for the patient to keep the teeth clean especially below the gumline. Dr. Monica A. Flynn may recommend treatment every two to three months. As the patient progresses, the frequency of the appointments may change.

What are the symptoms of gum disease?

You may be in need of periodontal maintenance by our experienced periodontist, Dr. Monica A. Flynn, if you are experiencing some of the symptoms of gum disease such as:

• Gums that bleed easily
• Red, swollen or tender gums
• Gums that have pulled away from your teeth
• Loose or separating teeth
• Persistent bad breath
• Pus between the teeth and gums
• A swelling or bubble on your gums

At Alamo Heights Periodontics, we are always accepting new patients into our maintenance program! We invite you to contact our dental office today to learn more about how healthy gums can support a healthier smile.


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