Periodontal maintenance is a preventive dental procedure performed after treatment for periodontal disease. It is designed to help maintain gum health and prevent the progression or recurrence of periodontal infection. Patients who have previously undergone treatments such as scaling and root planing often require ongoing periodontal maintenance to control bacterial buildup around the teeth and gums.
During periodontal maintenance visits, the dentist or dental hygienist removes plaque, tartar, and bacterial deposits from above and below the gumline. The gums and surrounding tissues are also evaluated for signs of inflammation, pocket depth changes, or disease progression. These visits typically occur at shorter intervals than routine dental cleanings, often every three to four months depending on the patient’s periodontal condition.