It only takes twenty-four hours for plaque that is not removed from your teeth to turn into calculus (tartar). What you do at home to control plaque and tartar formation is absolutely critical, but those hard to reach areas will always need special attention.

Once your periodontal treatment has been completed, your periodontist, in conjunction with the team at Limestone Dental Associates, will recommend a customized schedule of regular maintenance cleanings (periodontal cleanings) to meet your particular situation (often three or four times a year).  At these cleaning appointments, plaque and calculus that is difficult for you to remove on a daily basis will be removed from above and below the gum line and the pocket depths will be carefully checked to ensure that gums are healthy. 

In addition to your periodontal cleaning and evaluation, your appointment might also include:

• Examination of diagnostic x-rays (radiographs): Essential for detection of decay, tumors, cysts, and bone loss.X-rays also help determine tooth and root positions.

• Examination of existing restorations: Check current fillings, crowns, etc. for wear and leakage.

• Examination of tooth decay: Check all tooth surfaces for decay.

• Oral cancer screening: Check the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, cheek tissues, and gums for any signs of oral cancer.

• Oral hygiene recommendations: Review and recommend oral hygiene aids as needed. (Electric toothbrushes, special periodontal brushes, fluorides, rinses, etc.)

• Teeth polishing: Remove stain and plaque that is not otherwise removed during tooth brushing and scaling.

For someone who is prone to periodontal disease, keeping healthy is a coopertive effort between the periodontist, the dentist, the dental hygienist and, most important, you - the patient. What you do at home is essential in maintaining a healthy mouth and keeping gum disease under control!