Individuals who have been diagnosed with periodontal disease need to see a dentist regularly to prevent tooth loss and other complications associated with this disease. Periodontal maintenance treatment is designed to thoroughly clean the gums and teeth to halt progression of the disease, one that many individuals develop during their lifetime. In fact, it is estimated that 75 percent of individuals will suffer from periodontal disease at some point in their life. Periodontal disease occurs when plaque builds up on the teeth. Bacteria from this plaque develop above or below the gum line, leading to irritation and inflammation, as the bacteria produces toxins harmful to the body.

As a result, a chronic inflammatory response is observed in the …show more content…
However, there are cases where general anesthesia may be called for. This typically occurs when the disease has progressed significantly and an endotracheal tube needs to be inserted in the throat to prevent harmful bacteria from traveling to the lungs as it is removed.

Typically, the dentist cleans the area above the gum line, making use of special scaling tools, to remove any tartar and plaque. This process is referred to as supragingival cleaning and is followed up with subgingival cleaning. Dentists consider this to be the most important part of the process, as it is used to detect any bacteria and tartar beneath the gum line and in gum pockets. Once, the cleaning is complete, the tooth root must be smoothed to ensure no bacteria remain. This is of great importance, as these bacteria are very dangerous and can bring about severe health problems.

At times, the dentist may use an antimicrobial cream or an antibiotic, placing this medication in the gum pockets, to promote healthy healing in a timely manner. The medication may also be used to minimize any discomfort the patient experiences. After this has been done, the dentist works with the patient to establish a schedule for future maintenance …show more content…
Studies have shown bacteria begins to form in the mouth immediately after a dental cleaning. It only takes three months before bad bacteria begins to form, thus these visits are of great importance. With regular maintenance visits. patients find the inflammation is better controlled and there is less risk of further damage to the gums and bone.

The Benefits Of Periodontal Maintenance

With regular cleanings, the oral cavity remains in good health and gum disease progression is halted. During the cleaning, the dentist removes plaque and tarter that has build up below and above the gum line. This cannot be done at home, as the bacteria, debris and deposits are contained in pockets. Specialized dental equipment is needed to accomplish this, along with the trained eye of the dentist. The smile becomes more attractive, as it removes ugly stains from the teeth, and the breath becomes fresher.

Many patients fail to realize they have periodontal disease until someone they love mentions their recurring bad breath. This problem occurs when food particles begin to rot below the gum line. In addition, any infection present in the gums can lead to gangrene and bad breath along with periodontal issues. When the tarter, plaque and bacteria are removed, the breath smells better and irritation decreases or is eliminated