What Happens at a Periodontal Maintenance Visit

• Review of your medical and dental history
• Measurement of gum pocket depths to monitor disease progression
• Removal of plaque and tartar above and below the gumline
• Polishing of tooth surfaces
• Evaluation of bone levels and gum tissue
• Oral cancer screening
• Personalized home care instructions

Why Every 3-4 Months?

Research shows that the bacteria responsible for gum disease repopulate in gum pockets within 90 days of a cleaning. By scheduling maintenance every 3-4 months, we disrupt this cycle before the bacteria can cause further damage. Patients who skip maintenance visits are significantly more likely to experience disease progression and tooth loss.

Periodontal Maintenance vs. Regular Cleaning

A regular cleaning (prophylaxis) is for patients with healthy gums and focuses on the tooth surface above the gumline. Periodontal maintenance is for patients with a history of gum disease and includes cleaning below the gumline, pocket depth measurements, and more detailed monitoring. They are billed differently by insurance.

Insurance Coverage

Periodontal maintenance is typically covered by dental insurance at a different benefit level than regular cleanings. We accept Florida Medicaid and most major PPO dental insurance plans. We will verify your benefits before each visit.