Effects of Periodontal Maintenance on Oral Health
Have you been told to have regular cleanings at least twice per year? It seems common, but did you know some people build up more hard and soft deposits faster? Periodontal Maintenance is key to maintaining the health of patients with periodontal disease.
Bacteria in the mouth that isn’t routinely removed can lead to bone loss and eventually tooth loss. Periodontal disease is like alcoholism. You can’t cure the disease, you can only control it. So, in more severe cases, the dentist will recommend you have cleanings every 3 to 4 months instead of every 6 months. This process is called Periodontal Maintenance Therapy (PMT).
Numerous researchers studied the long-term effects of Periodontal Maintenance Therapy (PMT) following active periodontal treatment. They recently published their clinical study in the Journal of Periodontology in May 2018.
First, they studied individuals over a period of 6 years. Beginning with 212 individual subjects, the researchers ended up with 28 regular compliers (patients that showed routinely every 3 months) and 28 irregular compliers (patients that randomly showed). Then, the researchers looked at the effects of bacterial levels and the relationship to periodontal status.
During the 6-year follow-up period patients regularly treated with Periodontal Maintenance Therapy (PMT) had better overall clinical conditions. Also, tooth loss was less compared to those not seen regularly.
In summary, evidence overwhelmingly found patients showing for their Periodontal Maintenance every 3 to 4 months were clinically and periodontally healthier. So if you want to keep your smile for a lifetime, keep up with your professional cleanings. Also, incorporate a strong home care routine the other 361 days out of the year!
https://www.marylandperiodontics.com/understanding-diabetes-gum-disease/
Journal of Periodontology in May 2018; (The Department of Dental Clinics, Oral Pathology and Oral Surgery, School of Dentistry, Federal University of Minas Gerais and the Department of Dentistry, Periodontics Research Division, University of Tabaute’)
