It only takes 24 hours for plaque that is not removed from your teeth to start to turn into calculus (tartar)!  Daily home cleaning helps control plaque and tartar formation, but those hard to reach areas will always need special attention.

Once your periodontal treatment has been completed, your dentist and dental hygienist will recommend that you have regular maintenance cleanings (periodontal cleanings), usually four times a year.  These procedures are more involved than the routine prophylaxis of a periodontally healthy patient.  A prophylatic cleaning is preventive; while a periodontal cleaning is therapeutic.  At these cleaning appointments, the pocket depths will be carefully checked to ensure that they are healthy.  Plaque and calculus that is difficult for you to remove on a daily basis will be removed from above and below the gum line.

In addition to your periodontal cleaning and evaluation, your appointment will usually include:

• As needed, diagnostic digital x-rays:    Essential for detection of decay, tumors, cysts, and bone loss.  The X-rays also help determine how much of the root is supported by the underlying bone.
• Examination of existing restorations: Check integrity of current fillings, crowns, removable appliances, etc.
• Examination of tooth decay:  All tooth surfaces will be carefully checked for decay.
• Oral hygiene recommendations: Review and recommend oral hygiene aids as needed. Such as electric toothbrushes, special periodontal brushes, fluorides, rinses, etc.)

Good oral hygiene practices and periodontal cleanings are essential in maintaining dental health and keeping periodontal disease under control!