Periodontal Maintenance in Portland ME

You’ve already done the hard part—diagnosing and treating gum disease. But the journey doesn’t end there. In fact, periodontal maintenance in Portland ME is where the real work begins. If you've had gum disease in the past, routine cleanings aren’t enough. Your mouth needs specialized care to stay one step ahead of the bacteria that caused the problem in the first place.

Think of periodontal maintenance like a routine service for your car after a major repair. You wouldn’t skip oil changes after fixing the engine, right? The same logic applies here. Let’s dive into what makes this kind of care different—and why it’s essential to protecting your long-term oral health.

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What Is Periodontal Maintenance in Portland ME?

Periodontal maintenance is a structured, ongoing care plan specifically designed for people who have had periodontal disease or surgery. Unlike standard dental cleanings, which focus on the surface of the teeth and above the gum line, this treatment targets the deeper areas where harmful bacteria tend to return—even after successful treatment.

It’s not just about removing plaque. It’s about managing a chronic condition and preventing relapse. Once you've had gum disease, you're more susceptible to it coming back. Periodontal maintenance helps you stay in control.

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Why Regular Cleanings Aren’t Enough After Gum Disease

After active periodontal treatment (like scaling, root planing, or surgery), your gums may look and feel healthier—but they’re still vulnerable. The spaces between the teeth and gums, called periodontal pockets, may not fully close. These pockets become a prime hiding place for bacteria.

Routine dental cleanings generally don’t go deep enough to clean these pockets thoroughly. Without specialized care, those bacteria can repopulate and trigger inflammation all over again. That’s why periodontal maintenance visits are more frequent and more targeted.

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What Happens During a Periodontal Maintenance Visit?

These appointments are longer and more comprehensive than typical cleanings. Here’s what you can expect:

• Assessment of gum health: We measure pocket depths and check for signs of bleeding or inflammation.
• Subgingival scaling: Deep cleaning below the gumline to remove bacteria and tartar in periodontal pockets.
• Root planing (if needed): Smoothing the root surfaces to help gum tissue reattach and stay healthy.
• Antibacterial rinses or localized antibiotics: To reduce bacterial load and support healing.
• Review of oral hygiene habits: Personalized coaching on brushing, flossing, and other care techniques at home.

Every visit is tailored to your current condition. We’re not just maintaining your teeth—we’re maintaining the environment they live in.

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How Often Do You Need Periodontal Maintenance?

This isn’t a one-size-fits-all situation. For most patients, every 3–4 months is ideal. That’s because bacteria that cause periodontal disease tend to re-establish themselves within 90 days. Waiting longer gives them a chance to get ahead.

We’ll recommend a schedule based on your history, current gum health, and risk factors like smoking, diabetes, or stress levels. Remember: frequency matters more than intensity when it comes to maintaining gum health.

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The Long-Term Benefits of Periodontal Maintenance

This kind of proactive care does more than just preserve your gums:

• Prevents future bone loss and tooth loss
• Reduces the need for additional surgery or invasive treatment
• Supports healthier breath and a more attractive smile

Lowers your risk of systemic issues linked to inflammation—like heart disease, stroke, and uncontrolled diabetes

And let’s be real—catching problems early means less time in the chair and less cost in the long run.

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Protect the Investment You’ve Made in Your Smile

If you’ve already undergone periodontal treatment, you've made a serious investment in your health. Periodontal maintenance is how you protect that investment. It keeps disease in check, keeps your gums stable, and helps ensure your teeth stay where they belong—in your mouth.

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Ready to stay ahead of gum disease for good?

Let’s create a maintenance plan that works for your lifestyle, your smile, and your long-term health. Contact us today to schedule your next visit—we’re here to help you maintain what matters.