Do you schedule routine dental cleanings yet still struggle with bleeding gums, chronic bad breath, or gum sensitivity? Many people believe regular brushing, flossing, and twice-a-year cleanings are enough to maintain oral health, but if you’re experiencing these symptoms, there may be a deeper issue at play. Deep periodontal maintenance is more than just a dental procedure. It’s a proactive step toward preserving your overall health.
Understanding the Difference: Regular Cleanings vs. Deep Periodontal Maintenance
Routine dental cleanings focus on the surface level, removing plaque and tartar above the gumline. While essential for preventing issues like cavities, these standard cleanings may not be enough once gum disease takes hold.
Deep periodontal maintenance, on the other hand, targets the root of the problem. It’s a specialized service offered by experienced providers like Dr. Renken at Renken Dentistry – Schön Dental. This procedure goes well beyond the surface to treat and manage periodontal (gum) disease effectively.
What Is Deep Periodontal Maintenance?
Also known as scaling and root planing, deep periodontal maintenance is a comprehensive cleaning method designed to remove bacterial buildup not just at the gumline but beneath it. This buildup, if left untreated, can damage the soft tissues and bone supporting your teeth. The process typically includes:
- Scaling: Removal of hardened plaque and calculus from above and below the gumline
- Root Planing: Smoothing out the tooth root surfaces to prevent future bacterial adhesion
- Ongoing Periodontal Maintenance: Scheduled follow-ups every 3-4 months to prevent recurrence of gum disease
Why It Matters: The Silent Damage of Gum Disease
Gum disease doesn’t scream for attention, at least not at first. That’s why thousands of people don’t realize they have it until it progresses. Left untreated, gum disease can lead to:
- Receding gums and sensitive teeth
- Persistent bad breath (halitosis)
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Tooth loss and bone deterioration
- Systemic health problems, such as increased risk of heart disease and diabetes complications (American Academy of Periodontology)
This is not a minor issue. According to the CDC, nearly 50% of adults over age 30 in the U.S. have some form of periodontal disease. Yet many delay treatment because symptoms develop slowly and painlessly. That’s where personalized periodontal maintenance steps in, offering detailed care before irreversible damage occurs.
Benefits of Deep Periodontal Maintenance for Long-Term Oral Health
Beyond treating current disease, deep periodontal maintenance provides ongoing protection and reduces your risk of future complications. Some key advantages include
- Preservation of gum and bone structure
- Improved breath and oral hygiene
- A healthier immune response against oral bacteria
- Lower risk of systemic health issues tied to chronic inflammation
Patients who prioritize periodontal care often experience not only greater confidence when smiling or speaking, but also improved overall wellness. It’s truly an investment in more than just teeth. It’s also about safeguarding your full-body health.
What to Expect During a Periodontal Maintenance Visit
At practices like Renken Dentistry – Schön Dental, led by Dr. Renken, periodontal maintenance is personalized to each patient’s stage of gum health. Your first visit will begin with a comprehensive periodontal exam. Depending on your condition, local anesthesia may be used to ensure comfort during scaling and root planing.
Each cleaning is performed with specialized tools to gently remove buildup from deep pockets around your teeth. Afterward, your gums will have the opportunity to reattach securely, and any infection or swelling will begin to subside.
Most patients who undergo this deep cleaning are placed on a 3-4 month maintenance schedule to monitor progress and prevent recurrence. These visits are crucial for tracking gum pocket depth, controlling bacteria, and preserving treatment results.
FAQs: What Patients Often Ask About Periodontal Maintenance
Is deep periodontal maintenance painful?
The procedure is typically comfortable, especially with the use of local anesthetics or numbing gels. Most patients report minimal discomfort afterward, often described as tender gums for a day or two.
How long does the procedure take?
Initial scaling and root planing appointments may be broken into two visits with half of your mouth cleaned during each visit. This depends on the severity of your condition. Maintenance visits afterward usually take about 45–60 minutes, and do not have to be split up into two appointments.
Is this covered by dental insurance?
Most dental insurance plans cover periodontal maintenance as a medically necessary treatment for gum disease. Our front desk team at (217) 635-3782 can help verify your benefits prior to your visit.
Will I still need regular cleanings?
Deep periodontal maintenance replaces your standard cleanings and becomes your new level of care. These appointments are more frequent and specialized to keep gum disease at bay.
Why Patients Trust Renken Dentistry – Schön Dental
With a track record of compassionate care, advanced technology, and an emphasis on education, Dr. Renken and the team offer Springfield residents a supportive path to optimal oral health.
Patients seeking deep periodontal maintenance in the area find that our practice goes beyond treating symptoms. Rather, we focus on building long-term solutions. Here are a few things that set Renken Dentistry – Schön Dental apart from other local practices:
- Modern diagnostic tools for early detection of gum disease
- Comfort-first approach with patient-tailored care plans
- Transparent communication and clear follow-up protocols
- Trusted by families across the area for quality dental outcomes
Take the Next Step Toward Healthier Gums
If you’ve recently noticed signs of gum issues or if it’s been years since your last periodontal evaluation, it’s time to act. Deep periodontal maintenance offers life-changing results, and it starts with just one phone call.
Contact Dr. Renken and the team at Renken Dentistry – Schön Dental in Springfield, IL by calling (217) 635-3782 today. Periodontal disease doesn’t fix itself. But together, we can protect your smile and protect your health, too.
