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Providing assistance for periodontal care

Once the dental hygienist finishes the active phase of your periodontal treatment, your periodontal disease will be effectively managed. To ensure the continued health of your gums, they will create a personalized maintenance program for you.

Maintenance therapy is a continuous program aimed at preventing gum disease and preserving the bone that supports your teeth. By diligently following a routine of proper oral care at home and regularly attending maintenance therapy visits with your hygienist and the dentist, you greatly increase your chances of keeping your natural teeth for life.

What is the significance of supportive periodontal care?

As you may already know, gum disease is a risk for you. The main culprit behind gum disease is bacterial plaque, a sticky film that forms on your teeth. This plaque contains bacteria that release toxins, which constantly attack your gums and teeth. If not removed, plaque hardens into a rough deposit called calculus or tartar. While daily brushing and flossing can help reduce calculus formation, it cannot completely prevent it. Even if you diligently clean your teeth and gums, bacterial plaque can cause gum disease to return within two to four months after your last professional cleaning. Therefore, it is important for a dental professional to regularly check for hidden issues and remove hardened plaque at appropriate intervals to maintain the health of your teeth and gums.

Who carries out supportive periodontal therapy?

The frequency of overseeing your care will vary based on your gum disease severity prior to treatment. Typically, the more severe your periodontal disease is initially, the more frequent our supervision will be required. You, your general dentist, and Dr. Dyken will collaborate to determine the most suitable schedule for your supportive periodontal care.
Your maintenance/supportive periodontal care visit may include:
  • Discussion of any changes in your health history
  • Examination of your mouth tissues for abnormal changes
  • Measurement of the depth of pockets around your teeth
  • Assessment of your oral hygiene habits and provision of instruction
  • Removal of bacterial plaque and tartar
  • X-ray film studies to evaluate your teeth and the bone supporting your teeth
  • Examination of your teeth for decay and other dental problems
  • Checkup on the way your teeth fit together when you bite
  • Application or prescription of medications to reduce tooth sensitivity or other problems you may have

What's the recommended frequency for periodontal care visits?

Your periodontal condition will determine the frequency of your supportive periodontal care (SPC) visits. These visits can range from every few weeks to every six months, depending on your individual situation.
  • The type of periodontal disease you have
  • The type of periodontal treatment you have
  • Your response to treatment
  • Your rate of plaque growth
  • Your personal commitment to good oral care at home

New patients welcome.
Emergency appointments available for existing patients only.

Request an Appointment
(360) 457-3127
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