
Sep
Gum health is essential for a strong, beautiful smile. Regular periodontal maintenance is crucial to prevent further complications and keep your oral health in check if you’ve been diagnosed with gum disease. At Aztec Family Dental Care in Aztec, New Mexico, Dr. James Durfey and his team offer comprehensive periodontal care to help patients maintain healthy gums. Here are some common questions about periodontal maintenance.
Periodontal maintenance is a specialized cleaning treatment designed for patients with gum disease. Unlike a regular dental cleaning, this procedure targets plaque and bacteria below the gumline to prevent disease progression. It typically involves scaling and root planing to keep your gums and supporting bone structures healthy.
The frequency of periodontal maintenance visits depends on the severity of your gum disease. Most patients need appointments every three to four months to manage their condition and prevent further infection. Dr. Durfey will evaluate your gum health and recommend a personalized schedule to ensure optimal results.
During your visit, our dental team will thoroughly clean your teeth and gums, removing tartar buildup from deep pockets around your teeth. We also monitor the health of your gums, checking for any signs of inflammation, bleeding, or bone loss. These regular checkups help prevent gum disease from worsening and protect your overall oral health.
Yes! A standard dental cleaning removes plaque and tartar from the surface of the teeth and above the gumline. In contrast, periodontal maintenance is a more in-depth procedure that targets bacteria below the gums to prevent reinfection. It is essential for patients with gum disease who need ongoing care.
Skipping periodontal maintenance appointments can allow bacteria to accumulate, leading to the recurrence of gum disease. Untreated gum disease can cause gum recession and tooth loss and even impact overall health by increasing the risk of heart disease and diabetes complications. Staying on schedule with your periodontal visits helps prevent these serious issues.
Most patients experience little to no discomfort during periodontal maintenance. We use gentle techniques to clean below the gumline, and if necessary, we can apply a local anesthetic to ensure your comfort. After the procedure, you may have mild sensitivity, but it typically subsides within a day or two.
Scheduling an appointment at our office is easy! Call us at (505) 390-1117 to book your visit. Our team is here to help you maintain healthy gums and a strong smile.
If you’ve been diagnosed with gum disease, regular periodontal maintenance is essential to keeping your gums and teeth healthy. Dr. James Durfey and the team at Aztec Family Dental Care in Aztec, NM, are committed to providing top-quality periodontal care. Contact us today at (505) 390-1117 to schedule your appointment and protect your oral health for years!