Gum Health and Periodontal Maintenance

Your gums do much more than hold your teeth in place. They’re an integral part of your oral health and overall wellbeing. Healthy gums:

• Support your teeth and keep them securely anchored in your jawbone
• Protect against infection by creating a seal around teeth that keeps harmful bacteria out
• Preserve bone structure in your jaw, maintaining your facial shape and appearance
• Impact your overall health with connections to heart disease, diabetes, and other systemic conditions

Gum disease is one of the most common chronic conditions, affecting millions of people. The good news? It’s largely preventable with proper care and regular maintenance.

Gum disease starts with gingivitis—inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup. At this early stage, you might notice:

• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Bleeding when brushing or flossing
• Persistent bad breath

If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more serious form of gum disease that affects the tissues and bone supporting your teeth. Signs of periodontitis include:

• Receding gums that make teeth appear longer
• Pockets forming between teeth and gums
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Changes in your bite
• Pus between teeth and gums

Think of it like a tree: when the ground at its base is progressively lost, the roots become exposed, eventually leading to a complete loss of support. Healthy gums and bones are the foundation for a beautiful, healthy smile.

Periodontal maintenance is specialized cleaning and care for patients who have been treated for gum disease. Unlike regular dental cleanings, periodontal maintenance visits are more frequent and thorough, designed to prevent the recurrence of gum disease.

Who Needs Periodontal Maintenance?

You may need periodontal maintenance if you:

• Have been diagnosed with and treated for gum disease
• Have a history of periodontitis
• Have deep periodontal pockets (spaces between teeth and gums)
• Are at high risk for gum disease due to genetics, smoking, or systemic conditions

What Happens During Maintenance Visits?

During your periodontal maintenance appointment, we:

• Carefully measure pocket depths to monitor gum health and detect any changes
• Remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line using specialized techniques
• Clean and polish your teeth to remove surface stains and bacteria
• Assess overall gum health including checking for inflammation, recession, and bleeding
• Review your home care routine and provide personalized recommendations
• Monitor any existing restorations and check for new areas of concern

How Often Should You Come In?

Most patients with a history of gum disease benefit from periodontal maintenance visits every three to four months. This frequency isn’t arbitrary—research shows that bacterial colonies regrow and reach harmful levels approximately three months after a thorough cleaning. Regular maintenance visits help keep these bacteria under control and prevent disease recurrence.

Maintaining healthy gums between dental visits requires consistent daily care:

Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, paying special attention to the gum line

Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach

Use an antimicrobial mouthwash if recommended by your dentist

Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals that support gum health

Avoid tobacco products, which significantly increase your risk of gum disease

Manage health conditions like diabetes that can affect gum health