Following the treatment of periodontal disease, it is vital that a patient keeps the Dental Checkup appointments that the dentist recommends. Periodontal maintenance, which typically requires dental check-ups every three months post-treatment, is essential for continuing results. Without routine maintenance, the patient risks a relapse in oral health.
Periodontal disease is a chronic oral health condition that affects the tissues that surround and support the teeth. Untreated gum disease is a major cause of tooth loss in adults today. In the beginning stages, gum disease is painless and virtually unnoticeable, which is why many patients are unaware of its existence. Gum disease is caused by excessive plaque buildup and is characterized by a number of symptoms:
Preventing gum disease is simple since it merely requires regular brushing, flossing and a commitment to making each dental check-up appointment. However, when signs of the condition are present, early treatment is necessary to reverse it and prevent further damage.
Because periodontal disease is a chronic condition with no known cure, ongoing maintenance is necessary to preserve the health and integrity of the teeth. Without careful monitoring and the comprehensive care of a skilled dentist, a patient risks experiencing recurring gum disease in the future.
Once a dentist and patient have successfully combatted periodontal disease, the dentist will recommend periodontal maintenance procedures. These practices will enable the patient to gain control of the disease and increase the likelihood of long-term oral health.
Periodontal maintenance differs from the standard dental check-ups in two distinct ways. First, routine dental check-ups focus mainly on cleaning the teeth of healthy patients and removing calculus, plaque and stains from the tooth structure. Periodontal maintenance, on the other hand, is much more intensive and focuses on healing the gaps in the teeth, averting pain, preventing infection and restoring damaged areas.
Initial maintenance visits will consist of special cleaning treatments called root planing or scaling. These cleanings help to remove tartar and plaque buildup so that the gums can heal properly. Some patients may require surgical intervention. Once the gaps caused by the disease have shrunk, the dentist will focus on clearing the periodontal pockets of tartar and plaque buildup. To help prevent pain and further infection, a dentist may prescribe medication.
The second difference between routine and periodontal check-ups involves the frequency of visits. Routine dental check-ups usually occur every six months. Depending on the extent of the infection, however, a dentist may recommend periodontal maintenance every few weeks to every three months for gum disease patients. At each dental check-up, the dentist will monitor the patient’s mouth for disease progression and the effectiveness of the treatment. The dentist may increase or decrease the frequency of visits based on the health of the mouth.
Periodontal disease is a chronic and damaging condition that requires ongoing maintenance. If you notice signs of gum disease, schedule a dental check-up today.
Request an appointment here: https://regopark.aaadentalny.com or call Rego Park Dental at (718) 416-6359 for an appointment in our Rego Park office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Checkup in Rego Park, NY.
Understanding what happens during a general dentist visit allows patients to know what to expect. They are then more likely to undergo any necessary treatment that they need for good oral health. Knowing what to expect also helps those who experience dental anxiety.Wondering if a general dentist in Rego Park can provide you with the…
Curious about the importance of routine dental care? When it comes time for an annual checkup, the process can be quite troublesome and alarming for some people. Allowing for early detection by going to routine dental care checkups will keep your oral health on track. A checkup will show if a cavity needs attention, and…
Teeth cleanings are an important part of maintaining good oral health because they ensure the removal of plaque and tartar, both of which can lead to serious damage to the gums and teeth. Thankfully, general dentistry services include routine teeth cleanings twice a year or more frequently, depending on preference and needs.When considering a regular…
When it comes to general dentists, most of us rarely give the job much thought. Sure, we know dentists clean teeth and go to school, but beyond that most of us do not have a clue. Here are a few interesting facts that will help you better understand and be more appreciative of all the…
General dentistry treats oral health, functional and cosmetic concerns, and it includes teeth replacement with dental implants. Learning more about dental implants, including what it is, how the process works and who it is for, can help you decide if it is the best way for you to replace missing teeth.All general dentists develop their…
Wondering how often a general dentist places a dental crown? The fact that dental crowns are one of the more common types of dental restorations that patients undergo to improve their oral health makes dental crown placement a very popular option for repairing teeth. Ready to learn more?It is essential for anyone who is in…
