Periodontal Maintenance
Periodontal maintenance refers to the ongoing professional dental care and monitoring provided to individuals who have been diagnosed with periodontal disease. It is an essential part of managing and preventing the progression of gum disease.
Periodontal maintenance involves regular visits to the dentist or periodontist for thorough cleaning of the teeth and gums. This typically includes scaling below the gumline. It may also involve the use of antimicrobial agents or antibiotics to control infection and promote healing.
During periodontal maintenance appointments, the dentist or dental hygienist will assess the health of the gums, measure the depth of periodontal pockets, check for signs of inflammation or infection, and provide oral hygiene instructions. They may also take X-rays to monitor the bone levels and evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment.
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The frequency of periodontal maintenance visits may vary depending on the severity of the gum disease and the individual's response to treatment. It is typically recommended every three to four months to ensure proper oral health and prevent further damage to the gums and supporting structures. Regular periodontal maintenance is crucial in managing periodontal disease and maintaining the long-term health of the teeth and gums.
What is the difference between periodontal maintenance and a prophy?
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Periodontal maintenance and a prophy (short for prophylaxis) are both dental procedures, but they serve different purposes in oral health care.
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Periodontal maintenance is a specialized dental cleaning procedure that is typically recommended for patients who have been diagnosed with periodontal disease or have undergone periodontal treatment such as scaling and root planing. It involves the removal of plaque, tartar, and bacteria from above and below the gumline, along with thorough examination of the gums and supporting structures. Periodontal maintenance is usually performed at regular intervals, typically every three to four months, to prevent the progression of periodontal disease and maintain the health of the gums.
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On the other hand, a prophy is a routine dental cleaning procedure that is typically performed on patients with healthy gums as part of their regular preventive dental care. It involves the removal of plaque, tartar, and stains from the teeth, along with polishing to make the teeth smooth and shiny. A prophy is usually performed every six months or as recommended by the dentist to maintain oral hygiene and prevent dental problems.
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In summary, the main difference between periodontal maintenance and a prophy lies in their purpose. Periodontal maintenance is specifically for patients with periodontal disease or a history of periodontal treatment, while a prophy is a routine cleaning procedure for patients with healthy gums.