Periodontal Maintenance Appointments in Petoskey, MI
What Is Periodontal Maintenance?
Periodontal maintenance refers to a specialized dental cleaning aimed at eliminating bacteria, plaque, and tartar buildup that can lead to or exacerbate periodontal disease. This essential treatment is crucial for individuals who have previously undergone periodontal therapy and have a history of gum disease.
Periodontal maintenance appointments are generally recommended every three to four months, tailored to the patient’s specific condition and the advice of their dentist or periodontist. To learn more, contact our dentist in Petoskey, MI at (231) 347-2188.
The Benefits of Periodontal Maintenance
Periodontal maintenance offers numerous advantages, such as:
- Prevents periodontal disease from progressing: This form of dental cleaning effectively removes bacteria and plaque buildup, hindering the advancement of periodontal disease.
- Prevents tooth loss: Gum disease is the primary cause of tooth loss in adults. Regular periodontal cleaning appointments can help avert this issue.
- Maintains oral health: Periodontal maintenance supports the health of your teeth and gums and can prevent other oral health concerns, like cavities and bad breath.
- Helps detect other health problems: During your periodontal cleaning appointments, your dentist or periodontist may identify other health issues, such as diabetes or heart disease.
Who Needs Periodontal Maintenance?
Individuals who have experienced periodontal disease and have undergone periodontal therapy are ideal candidates for periodontal maintenance. You may also benefit from this dental cleaning if you:
- Have a family history of gum disease
- Smoke
- Have diabetes
- Are pregnant and may be at a higher risk for gum disease
To arrange an appointment with our Petoskey, MI dentist, please call our office at (231) 347-2188.
The Periodontal Maintenance Process
The periodontal maintenance process involves a comprehensive cleaning of the teeth and gums. Here’s what to expect:
- Evaluation: Our dentist will assess your gum health and determine if further treatment is necessary.
- Scaling and Root Planing: If required, our dental hygienist will perform scaling and root planing, also known as a deep cleaning, which involves removing plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth and smoothing the tooth roots to prevent bacteria from adhering to them.
- Polishing: Following scaling and root planing, our dental hygienist will polish your teeth to eliminate any remaining stains or plaque.
- Oral Hygiene Education: Our dental hygienist will provide guidance and tips on maintaining good oral health at home.
- Follow-up: The dentist will schedule your next periodontal maintenance appointment, typically three to four months later.
The Cost of Periodontal Maintenance Cleanings
On average, periodontal maintenance appointments range from $150 to $300. The cost varies based on location, the dentist or periodontist’s experience, and your insurance coverage. Generally, it’s more expensive than a regular dental cleaning, but most dental insurance plans cover all or part of the costs. Patients should verify coverage and out-of-pocket expenses with their insurance provider. Ask your dentist about any special discounts or financing options.
Here are some tips for saving money on periodontal maintenance cleanings:
- Inquire about payment plans. Some dentists offer discounts for full payment or for setting up a payment plan.
- Seek out a dental school or clinic in your area. Dental schools often provide discounted dental care under the supervision of experienced dentists.
- Verify if your insurance company offers any coverage for periodontal maintenance.
- Compare prices among different dentists in your area.
How to Maintain Healthy Gums at Home
To help prevent the recurrence of periodontal disease, our Petoskey, MI dentist offers these tips for maintaining healthy gums at home:
- Brush and floss teeth regularly
- Use mouthwash
- Quit smoking
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet
- Stay hydrated
- Adhere to a routine dental cleaning schedule
