Once you've had gum disease, your gums need special attention to stay healthy. Periodontal maintenance is a type of professional cleaning we do more frequently than a regular cleaning—usually every three to four months instead of six—to keep bacteria and tartar from building back up.
Think of it as preventive care. During these visits, we remove any new tartar buildup, check how your gums are healing, and make sure you're staying on track with your at-home care. We also measure your gum pockets to see if the treatment is working. These frequent cleanings help us catch any problems early, before they become serious again.
Staying committed to periodontal maintenance is one of the best ways to protect your natural teeth long-term. It works best when combined with excellent brushing, flossing, and sometimes lifestyle changes like managing stress or quitting tobacco—both of which can harm your gums.