Periodontal Maintenance

Protecting the Foundation of Your Smile

Periodontal (gum) disease is a chronic infection that damages the gums and bone supporting your teeth. It develops when plaque — a sticky film of bacteria — builds up below the gumline and hardens into tartar. Over time, this can cause inflammation, bone loss, and, if untreated, tooth loss.

Even with excellent brushing and flossing, once gum disease develops, professional care is essential to control infection and maintain your oral health.

Why Gum Health Matters

• Adults over 35 lose more teeth to gum disease than to cavities.
• About 75% of adults experience gum disease at some point.
• Daily brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits are the best defense.

When plaque and tartar remain on the teeth, bacteria release toxins that irritate the gums. This leads to bleeding, swelling, and eventually bone loss that can loosen teeth.

Periodontal Treatment & Maintenance

1. Scaling and Root Planing (SRP)

If gum disease is diagnosed, the first step in treatment is often Scaling and Root Planing, also known as a deep cleaning.

• The hygienist carefully removes plaque and tartar buildup from beneath the gums.
• The root surfaces are smoothed, allowing the gums to heal and reattach.
• Local anesthesia is used for comfort during the procedure.

This treatment stops infection from progressing and creates a clean foundation for healing.

2. Ongoing Periodontal Maintenance

After your initial deep cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing), you will transition into a periodontal maintenance schedule, typically every 3–4 months. These visits are essential for long-term gum health and are a permanent part of managing periodontal disease.

During periodontal maintenance visits, we:

• Remove new plaque and tartar that form below and above the gumline
• Measure gum health and pocket depths to monitor stability
• Control bacteria and prevent the return of active infection
• Reinforce home care techniques to help you maintain your results

Once diagnosed and treated for gum disease, you remain in periodontal maintenance indefinitely, unless Dr. Hill or Dr. Fuqua determine that your gum health has fully stabilized and you can safely return to routine cleanings.

This ongoing care helps protect your gums, bone, and supporting structures — preventing future tooth loss and maintaining your overall oral health.

Factors That Affect Gum Health

Several lifestyle and health factors can increase your risk or slow healing, including:

• Smoking or vaping
• Diabetes
• Chronic stress
• Clenching or grinding teeth (bruxism)
• Certain medications
• Poor nutrition or hydration

Your dental team will review these factors and help you create a personalized plan to keep your gums healthy long term.

Preventing Gum Disease

The best way to maintain healthy gums is through:

• Consistent brushing and flossing at home
• Regular professional cleanings and exams
• Prompt treatment if signs of infection appear (bleeding, swelling, or persistent bad breath)

Once periodontal disease has developed, it cannot be completely reversed — but with consistent scaling, root planing, and maintenance visits, it can be effectively controlled to protect your smile for life.