What Is a Periodontal Maintenance Cleaning?

A periodontal maintenance cleaning is a specialized dental cleaning for people who have been treated for gum disease (also called periodontal disease).

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Unlike a regular dental cleaning, this type of cleaning goes deeper to help control and manage gum disease and help prevent it from coming back.

Why Would I Need Periodontal Maintenance?

You may need periodontal maintenance if:

• You’ve had scaling and root planing (a deep cleaning for gum disease)

• You’ve been diagnosed with periodontitis (a more advanced form of gum disease)

• You’ve had gum surgery or other periodontal treatments

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Once you’ve had gum disease, your mouth is more vulnerable to it returning. Periodontal maintenance is ongoing care to help keep your gums healthy and prevent tooth loss.

What Happens During a Periodontal Maintenance Appointment?

This cleaning is more in-depth than a regular (prophylactic) cleaning and typically includes:

1. Deeper cleaning above and below the gumline
   – Plaque and tartar are carefully removed, especially in pockets where the gums have pulled away from the teeth.

2. Measuring gum pocket depths
   – The spaces between your teeth and gums are checked to monitor for signs of returning gum disease. 

3. Polishing your teeth
   – Smooths the surface of your teeth to help prevent plaque buildup.

4. Irrigation or medication (if needed)
   – Antibacterial rinses or localized antibiotics may be used to reduce bacteria under the gums.

How Is It Different From a Regular Cleaning?

Regular Cleaning (Prophylaxis)​

• For healthy gums

• Focuses on cleaning above the gums

• Usually every 6 months

• Preventive care

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 Periodontal Maintenance

• For patients with a history of gum disease

• Cleans above and below the gums

• Often every 3–4 months

• Ongoing disease management

Why Is Periodontal Maintenance So Important?

Gum disease doesn’t go away completely—it can only be controlled. Without consistent care, it often comes back and can lead to:

• Gum recession

• Tooth loss

• Bone loss around teeth

• Infections and chronic inflammation

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Regular periodontal maintenance cleanings help protect the investment you’ve made in your gum treatment and support your overall health.

In Short:

A periodontal maintenance cleaning is essential if you've had gum disease. It’s not just a “deep cleaning”—it’s an ongoing, tailored treatment to keep gum disease under control and maintain a healthy mouth.

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Think of it as follow-up care for a chronic condition—like checkups for high blood pressure or diabetes.