Periodontal Maintenance in Jacksonville, FL
At Crystal Clear Dental Spa, Dr. Mary Hu provides comprehensive periodontal maintenance to help patients in Jacksonville, FL, keep gum disease under control after initial treatment. Regular maintenance cleanings are essential for preventing disease recurrence and maintaining healthy gums for life.
What Is Periodontal Maintenance?
Periodontal maintenance is specialized cleaning performed for patients who have been treated for gum disease. Unlike routine prophylaxis (regular cleanings), periodontal maintenance involves more thorough cleaning below the gumline to remove plaque and tartar from periodontal pockets. These appointments also include careful monitoring of your gum health to catch any signs of disease recurrence early.
Why Periodontal Maintenance Is Important
Gum disease is a chronic condition that requires ongoing management. Even after successful treatment, the bacteria that cause gum disease can return. Regular periodontal maintenance cleanings remove these bacteria before they can cause new infection, helping you maintain the healthy gums you've worked hard to achieve. Without proper maintenance, gum disease will likely return.
What's Included in Periodontal Maintenance
- Thorough Cleaning - Removal of plaque and tartar above and below the gumline
- Pocket Depth Measurement - Monitoring of periodontal pocket depths
- Gum Health Assessment - Evaluation for signs of inflammation or infection
- Oral Cancer Screening - Examination of soft tissues
- X-rays - Periodic radiographs to monitor bone levels
- Home Care Review - Personalized oral hygiene instructions
- Treatment Planning - Recommendations if additional care is needed
How Often Should You Have Periodontal Maintenance?
Most patients with a history of gum disease need periodontal maintenance every 3-4 months rather than the standard 6-month interval. This more frequent schedule is necessary because bacteria repopulate periodontal pockets more quickly in patients who've had gum disease. Dr. Hu will recommend the appropriate interval based on your specific needs and how well you're maintaining your oral health at home.
Periodontal Maintenance vs. Regular Cleaning
Regular Cleaning (Prophylaxis):
- For patients with healthy gums
- Every 6 months
- Preventive care
- Focuses on removing plaque and stains
Periodontal Maintenance:
- For patients with history of gum disease
- Every 3-4 months
- Therapeutic care
- Includes deep pocket cleaning and monitoring
- More comprehensive and time-intensive
Home Care Between Appointments
Your home care routine is crucial for maintaining healthy gums between appointments. Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled brush, floss daily (or use interdental brushes), and consider using an antimicrobial mouth rinse if recommended. If you notice any signs of gum problems—bleeding, swelling, or bad breath—contact Crystal Clear Dental Spa right away rather than waiting for your next scheduled appointment.
Schedule Your Periodontal Maintenance
Due for your periodontal maintenance cleaning? Contact Crystal Clear Dental Spa at 904-731-2162 to schedule your appointment with Dr. Mary Hu in Jacksonville, FL. Keep your gums healthy with regular professional care.