Gum disease affects nearly half of all adults in the United States—and without proper care, it can progress into a serious condition that compromises both your oral and overall health. If you’ve been diagnosed with periodontal disease or are experiencing symptoms such as red, swollen, or bleeding gums, Afton Family Dental can help.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is a chronic inflammatory condition caused by bacteria in dental plaque. When plaque is not effectively removed, it hardens into tartar and triggers infection in the gum tissues. Over time, this can result in gum recession, bone loss, and even tooth loss if not properly managed.
While gum disease cannot be fully cured, it can be effectively controlled with consistent professional care and at-home oral hygiene. That’s where periodontal maintenance comes in.
What Is Periodontal Maintenance?
Periodontal maintenance is a long-term treatment approach designed to manage gum disease and prevent it from progressing. Unlike standard dental cleanings, periodontal maintenance involves more thorough and frequent visits—typically every three months—to keep bacterial growth in check.
These visits include:
- Deep cleaning above and below the gumline
- Removal of plaque, tartar (calculus), and harmful bacteria
- Evaluation of gum pocket depth and tissue health
- Monitoring bone levels and identifying changes over time
This three-month interval is important because harmful bacteria tend to repopulate between three and twelve weeks after a cleaning. By removing them before they cause further damage, we help maintain the stability of your gums and reduce the risk of additional bone loss or tooth loss.
Long-Term Care for Healthier Gums
If you’ve undergone treatment for gum disease—such as scaling and root planing or surgery—ongoing maintenance is essential to preserve those results. Dr. Christensen will tailor your maintenance schedule and treatment plan based on the current condition of your gums and how well they’re responding to care.
Take Control of Your Gum Health
If you’re managing periodontal disease or have been advised to begin maintenance therapy, our team is here to support you. Contact Afton Family Dental to schedule your periodontal maintenance visit with Dr. Corey Christensen and protect the long-term health of your smile.