Periodontal Maintenance, or Periodontal Cleanings, are continued periodontal therapy. Periodontal (Gum) Disease is a chronic problem, much like diabetes, and must be controlled through regular periodontal cleanings (even though you may have had periodontal surgery or non-surgical treatment). The schedule will vary from case to case, but typically periodontal cleanings are required on a more frequent basis than the six month interval often recommended for patients with healthy gums. The interval between cleanings that's right for you will be determined by Dr. Pylant following your initial periodontal treatments.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR ORAL HYGIENE CARE

1. Brush 2 to 3 times a day with a soft toothbrush. Use a 45 degree angle. Make sure you are cleaning the gums. Not a lot of pressure with a short stroke, side to side.

2. Floss at least once daily. Pressure should be on the teeth and not cutting the gum. Remember to use the "C" technique.

3. If you do not use alcohol or smoke, the preferred mouth rinse is Listerine. Don't use Listerine more than 2 times daily. We ask that you brush in the Listerine at night before you go to bed. Listerine can also be used in a Water Pik.

4. Viadent mouth rinse is recommended if you do smoke or drink alcohol.

5. If you use a Water Pik, Teledyne make a good model. Never set the Water Pik on high setting. It's too much pressure. Find a pressure that feels good and not too strong. Put warm water in the Water Pik and about 1/4 cup Listerine. Use the Water Pik like a toothpick. Go straight through the interproximal spaces and hold for 5 seconds. Don't angle tip up or down. You can do the same thing with the Viadent instead of Listerine.

6. We do recommend Electric Toothbrushes. Good models are the Soni-care and the Sensonic. These are great aids in removing plaque and gum stimulation.

7. Other recommendations are Stimudents, Toothpicks, Stimulators, Proxybrushes.

Feel free to if you have any questions. We will be glad to help.

Back to top

Welcome | Meet Us | Map / Hours | Periodontal Services
Dental Implants | Cosmetic Procedures | Patient Comfort
Patient Information | For Referring Doctors | Contact Us | Links