Welcome to ROC Perio & Implants, the premier periodontal practice in Rochester, NY. Our team of experienced, board-certified periodontists is dedicated to helping you achieve lasting oral health. If you are managing a history of periodontal disease or simply want to protect your natural teeth and prevent future tooth loss, specialized periodontal maintenance is the most effective proactive treatment available.

What is Periodontal Maintenance?

Periodontal maintenance is a specialized type of dental cleaning that is performed to help keep the gums healthy and prevent the progression of gum disease. Unlike a standard cleaning that you might receive from a general dentist, this procedure typically involves a deep cleaning of the teeth, roots, and gums to remove any plaque and tartar buildup from above and below the gum line. It is specifically designed to manage periodontal disease and promote healthy gum tissue.

Why is Periodontal Maintenance Important?

Periodontal maintenance is important because it helps to remove the harmful bacteria and stubborn tartar buildup that contribute to the progression of gum disease. When left unchecked, these bacteria can cause decay and irreversible damage to the bone and gum tissue supporting your teeth.

Additionally, this type of professional dental care helps to promote healthy, functional gum tissue, which can prevent the need for more extensive dental procedures or oral surgery in the future. Regular maintenance is the key to protecting your overall oral health and avoiding tooth loss.

Who is a Candidate for Periodontal Maintenance?

Individuals with a history of gum disease, those who have undergone previous periodontal treatment, as well as those who are at high risk for developing the condition, are excellent candidates for periodontal maintenance.

If you have experienced deep periodontal pockets, bone loss, or bleeding gums, standard cleanings are no longer sufficient. Our periodontists at ROC Perio & Implants in Rochester, NY can evaluate your mouth and help determine if this advanced level of hygiene is right for you.

What Happens During a Periodontal Maintenance Appointment?

At ROC Perio & Implants in Rochester, NY, your periodontal maintenance appointment is comprehensive. The visit typically involves:

• A thorough review of your medical and dental history.
• A detailed visual and clinical diagnosis of the gum tissue to identify any areas of concern.
• Measuring the depth of any periodontal pocket around each tooth to monitor for changes.
• A deep, professional clean to meticulously remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the teeth and beneath the gum line.
• Polishing the teeth to remove surface stains.
• A personalized review of your home oral hygiene routine, including how effectively you use your toothbrush and floss.

Depending on the severity of your gum disease, our team may also take x-rays or perform other diagnostic tests to better understand the condition of your bone and gums. For patients with replacements, including dental implants, we will thoroughly clean and inspect the implant to ensure it continues to function perfectly.

Is Periodontal Maintenance Painful?

Periodontal maintenance is typically not painful. We want every patient to feel completely at ease. If you have sensitive teeth or deep pockets, the procedure can be performed using local anesthesia to minimize any discomfort. Some patients may experience mild sensitivity or soreness after the appointment, but this is typically short-lived and can be easily managed with over-the-counter pain medication.

How Often Should I Have Periodontal Maintenance?

The frequency of your periodontal maintenance appointments will depend heavily on the severity of your gum disease and your overall oral health. Because the bacteria that cause periodontal disease begin to recolonize within 3 to 4 months after a professional cleaning, we frequently recommend that our patients visit us every 3 to 4 months.

Our specialized team, featuring doctors who completed rigorous periodontology training at esteemed institutions like the University of Rochester, will work closely with you. We will develop a customized treatment plan to ensure your gums stay healthy and prevent the progression of gum disease.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)