Periodontal Maintenance Cleanings
Periodontal maintenance cleanings are a specialized form of ongoing care designed for patients who have been diagnosed with and treated for gum disease. Unlike routine prophylaxis, which focuses on general prevention, periodontal maintenance is a more detailed and frequent cleaning protocol aimed at keeping gum disease from returning or progressing after initial treatment has stabilized the condition.
At Bensonhurst Dental Care, periodontal maintenance is provided by Dr. Geoffrey Rubinshtein, a board-certified periodontist who brings both advanced training and a genuinely compassionate approach to every patient. Dr. Geoffrey completed his Doctorate of Dental Surgery and Post Graduate Program in Periodontics at NYU, and he tailors each maintenance visit to the specific needs of the individual. These appointments include thorough measurement of periodontal pocket depths, targeted removal of bacterial deposits above and below the gumline, and evaluation of gum tissue health to monitor for any signs of disease activity.
Periodontal maintenance is typically scheduled every three to four months, though the interval may be adjusted based on each patient's response to treatment and their individual risk factors. This frequency is more than a recommendation. It is a clinical necessity for patients with a periodontal history. Gum disease is a chronic condition, and without consistent professional care, bacterial recolonization can occur within weeks, putting hard-won stability at risk.
For patients who are earlier in their periodontal treatment journey, deep cleanings (scaling and root planing) may be the first step before transitioning to a maintenance schedule. Additionally, preventive laser bacterial reduction performed by Dr. Alex Rubinshtein can complement maintenance visits by targeting bacteria below the gumline with precision laser technology. Together, these services form a comprehensive approach to long-term periodontal health.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is periodontal maintenance different from a regular cleaning?
Periodontal maintenance involves deeper cleaning below the gumline, detailed pocket depth measurements, and more thorough evaluation of gum tissue than a standard prophylaxis. It is specifically designed for patients who have been treated for gum disease and need ongoing management to prevent recurrence.
How often will I need periodontal maintenance?
Most patients are seen every three to four months. Dr. Geoffrey determines the ideal interval based on each patient's condition, response to prior treatment, and ongoing risk factors. The schedule may be adjusted over time as the condition stabilizes.
Can I go back to regular cleanings eventually?
In some cases, patients whose periodontal condition has been stable for an extended period may transition to a less frequent schedule. However, because gum disease is a chronic condition, most patients benefit from continuing periodontal maintenance long term to protect their results.
What happens if I skip maintenance appointments?
Skipping maintenance appointments allows bacteria to recolonize below the gumline, which can lead to renewed inflammation, deeper pocketing, bone loss, and potential tooth loss. Consistent visits are essential to maintaining the progress achieved through initial treatment.
Will periodontal maintenance be uncomfortable?
Dr. Geoffrey takes every measure to ensure patient comfort during maintenance visits. While some areas may be more sensitive than others, particularly in deeper pockets, the experience is manageable and the team works with each patient to minimize discomfort.
