Healthy Gums at RiverWalk Family Dental
Welcome to our Naperville dental office, where we prioritize your oral health and help you maintain a vibrant, healthy smile. If you’ve been diagnosed with gum disease or have undergone periodontal treatment, periodontal maintenance cleanings are a critical step to keep your gums and teeth in top condition.
If you’re looking for a new dentist near you, contact Dr. Jill Tassone-Pasinski today by calling 630-579-6000. We’re currently welcoming new patients.
What Is Periodontal Maintenance?
Periodontal maintenance is a specialized dental cleaning procedure designed for patients who have been treated for periodontal (gum) disease. Unlike routine dental cleanings, periodontal maintenance focuses on preventing the recurrence of gum disease by thoroughly cleaning the teeth, gums, and surrounding bone structures. This ongoing care is tailored to patients with a history of gingivitis, periodontitis, or other periodontal conditions.
Periodontal maintenance typically involves:
- Deep cleaning of the teeth and gumline to remove plaque and tartar buildup.
- Monitoring of gum pocket depths to assess periodontal health.
- Polishing to smooth tooth surfaces and reduce bacterial adhesion.
- Customized oral hygiene recommendations to maintain results at home.
Do you have periodontal disease? Contact our dentist in Naperville by calling 630-579-6000 to schedule an appointment.
Why Is Periodontal Maintenance Important?
Periodontal maintenance appointments are essential for some patients as they help with:
- Preventing Disease Progression: Gum disease can worsen without proper care, leading to bone loss, receding gums, and tooth mobility.
- Maintaining Treatment Results: After scaling and root planing or other periodontal treatments, maintenance ensures long-term success.
- Reducing Health Risks: Research links periodontal disease to systemic conditions like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and respiratory issues.
- Preserving Your Smile: Healthy gums support strong teeth, enhancing aesthetics and function.
- Cost Savings: Early intervention through maintenance can prevent costly procedures like gum surgery or tooth replacement.
Benefits of Periodontal Maintenance
There are many benefits to periodontal maintenance, including:
- Healthier Gums: Regular cleanings reduce inflammation and prevent gum disease progression.
- Stronger Teeth: Healthy gums provide a stable foundation for your teeth.
- Fresher Breath: Removing bacteria eliminates chronic bad breath (halitosis).
- Improved Overall Health: Reducing oral bacteria lowers the risk of systemic conditions.
- Enhanced Confidence: A healthy smile boosts self-esteem and quality of life.
Achieve excellent gum health and combat periodontal disease! Contact Dr. Jill Tassone-Pasinski today at 630-579-6000 to schedule a consultation.
What to Expect During a Periodontal Maintenance Visit
A periodontal maintenance visit is more thorough than a standard cleaning and is tailored to your unique needs. Here’s what happens during a typical appointment at RiverWalk Family Dental:
- Medical and Dental History Review: Our dentist will discuss any changes in your health, medications, or symptoms to ensure personalized care.
- Gum Health Assessment: Our hygienist will measure gum pocket depths and check for signs of inflammation or bleeding.
- Plaque and Tartar Removal: Using advanced tools, we remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline.
- Scaling and Root Planing (if needed): For areas with persistent buildup, we may perform localized deep cleaning.
- Polishing and Fluoride Application: We polish your teeth to smooth surfaces and may apply fluoride to strengthen enamel.
- Oral Hygiene Education: You’ll receive tailored tips on brushing, flossing, and using tools like interdental brushes or water flossers.
- X-Rays (if necessary): Periodic X-rays help us monitor bone health and detect hidden issues.
A periodontal maintenance visit typically lasts 45 to 60 minutes, depending on your needs.
The Cost of Periodontal Maintenance Appointments
The cost of periodontal maintenance varies based on factors like location, the severity of your gum health, and whether dental insurance covers the procedure. On average, costs range from $100 to $300 per visit. Many dental insurance plans cover periodontal maintenance as a preventive or therapeutic procedure, especially for patients with a history of gum disease.
How Often Should You Get Periodontal Maintenance?
The frequency of periodontal maintenance depends on the severity of your gum disease and your oral health needs. Most patients require visits every 3 to 4 months, compared to the standard 6-month interval for routine cleanings. This schedule allows our Naperville dentist to:
- Monitor gum health closely.
- Remove plaque and tartar before they cause damage.
- Adjust your treatment plan as needed.
If you have any questions or you’ve been diagnosed with periodontal disease and are looking for treatment, contact our dentist near you today at 630-579-6000.