What Is a Periodontal Maintenance and Why Is It Important for Oral Health?

January 2025

If you've been diagnosed with periodontal disease, you're not alone—nearly 47% of adults over 30 in the U.S. suffer from some form of gum disease. While routine cleanings work for general upkeep, periodontal maintenance is a necessary treatment for those managing gum disease. In this guide let’s discover: what is a periodontal maintenance, and why do you need it?

What Is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is a bacterial infection that affects the gums and bone supporting your teeth. It develops when plaque and tartar build up along the gum line, leading to inflammation, infection, and potential tooth loss if left untreated.

Because periodontal disease is a chronic condition, it requires ongoing care—including scaling and root planing (SRP) followed by periodontal maintenance therapy to prevent it from worsening.

What Is a Periodontal Maintenance?

Periodontal maintenance is a specialized dental cleaning designed to manage gum disease after you've undergone scaling and root planing (SRP)—a deep cleaning procedure that removes bacteria and tartar from beneath the gum line.

Unlike a routine cleaning, which focuses on surface-level plaque and tartar removal, periodontal maintenance involves cleaning deep into the gum pockets to prevent further infection and bone loss.

The Importance of Periodontal Maintenance

Gum disease doesn’t just affect your mouth—it’s linked to heart disease, diabetes, and even Alzheimer’s. Keeping up with periodontal maintenance therapy is crucial for maintaining overall health.

Without proper maintenance, gum disease can lead to:
-Bone loss around teeth
-Loose or missing teeth
-Chronic bad breath
-Increased risk of infection

By following a strict periodontal maintenance routine, you can preserve your smile and prevent costly treatments in the future.

Difference Between Routine Cleanings & Periodontal Maintenance

Many patients wonder: What is the difference between a routine cleaning and periodontal maintenance? The key distinction lies in the level of care required:

Procedure	Purpose	Who Needs It?
Routine Cleaning (Prophylaxis)	Removes plaque and tartar from teeth	Patients with healthy gums
Periodontal Maintenance	Removes bacteria, tartar, and plaque from beneath the gum line	Patients managing gum disease

The biggest difference here is that periodontal maintenance is for those who have already developed gum disease, while regular cleanings are for prevention.

Do I Need Periodontal Maintenance Forever?

The answer depends on the severity of your gum disease and how well you maintain your oral health at home.

Since gum disease is a chronic condition, periodontal maintenance is often required indefinitely. However, with proper oral hygiene and routine dental cleanings, some patients may eventually transition to regular cleanings.

How Often Do I Need Periodontal Maintenance?

Most dentists recommend a 3-month periodontal maintenance schedule. This frequency helps to prevent bacteria from recolonizing beneath the gums, reducing the risk of infection and bone loss.

Skipping or delaying treatments can allow gum pockets to deepen, leading to further complications and potential tooth loss.

We Can Help – Expert Periodontal Care at Raio Dental!

At Raio Dental, we specialize in periodontal maintenance and gum disease treatment. Our expert team provides personalized care to help you manage your oral health and prevent further complications.

If you’ve been diagnosed with gum disease or need a deep cleaning, don’t wait—schedule your appointment today! Click here.

Because your teeth and gums deserve expert care!