Protect the progress made during active treatment.

Maintenance is different from a routine preventive cleaning.

After periodontal treatment, disease-causing buildup can return in areas that remain difficult to clean. A periodontal maintenance visit addresses plaque and tartar above and below the gumline as needed and checks how the supporting tissues are responding over time.

The interval is individualized. Some patients benefit from more frequent visits because of disease severity, smoking, diabetes, home-care challenges, or how quickly buildup returns. A fixed schedule such as exactly four visits every year is not necessary for every person.

What may happen at a maintenance visit

• Review of health changes, symptoms, and home-care routines
• Reassessment of selected pocket depths, bleeding, recession, and mobility
• Removal of plaque and tartar from areas that require professional access
• Polishing and individualized instruction for difficult areas
• X-rays only when needed to answer a diagnostic question

When the condition changes

New bleeding, deeper pockets, discomfort, or continued bone loss can signal that the condition is no longer stable. The dentist may recommend additional active treatment, a change in the maintenance interval, or referral to a periodontist.

At home, continue brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between the teeth using the tools recommended for your anatomy and dental work.