It only takes twenty-four hours for plaque that isn’t removed from your teeth to harden into calculus (tartar)! Daily home care is crucial for managing plaque and tartar buildup, but hard-to-reach areas often require special attention.

After completing your periodontal treatment, your dentist and dental hygienist will recommend regular maintenance cleanings (periodontal cleanings), typically four times a year. During these appointments, pocket depths will be carefully monitored to ensure they remain healthy. Plaque and calculus that are challenging to remove during daily brushing will be addressed above and below the gum line.

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

  • Examination of Diagnostic X-rays: Essential for detecting decay, tumors, cysts, and bone loss, as well as determining the positions of teeth and roots.
  • Assessment of Existing Restorations: Checking current fillings, crowns, and other dental work.
  • Evaluation for Tooth Decay: Inspecting all tooth surfaces for signs of decay.
  • Oral Cancer Screening: A thorough check of the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, cheek tissues, and gums for any indications of oral cancer.
  • Oral Hygiene Recommendations: Reviewing and suggesting oral hygiene aids as needed, such as electric toothbrushes, specialized brushes, fluorides, and rinses.
  • Teeth Polishing: Removing stains and plaque that may not be eliminated through regular brushing and scaling.

Maintaining good oral hygiene practices along with regular periodontal cleanings is essential for preserving your dental health and keeping periodontal disease in check!