Periodontal Maintenance

Understanding Periodontal Maintenance

Periodontal maintenance is an ongoing process designed to prevent the progression of periodontal disease, also known as gum disease. This type of care is essential for patients who have undergone periodontal therapy or treatment for gum disease, as it helps to maintain the results of the therapy and prevent the recurrence of the disease.

Periodontal maintenance typically includes thorough cleanings, monitoring of gum health, and early intervention if any signs of gum disease reappear. Regular maintenance appointments are crucial for keeping your gums healthy and your teeth strong.

The Importance of Periodontal Maintenance

Periodontal disease is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is caused by the accumulation of plaque and tartar on the teeth and gums, leading to inflammation, bleeding, and, if left untreated, the destruction of the teeth’s supporting structures. Periodontal disease is adults’ leading cause of tooth loss, making its prevention and management essential.

Gum disease treatment in Marlton is essential for several reasons:

1. Prevention of Disease Progression: Regular periodontal maintenance helps prevent the progression of gum disease by removing plaque and tartar that can lead to further infection and damage.
2. Preservation of Dental Health: Periodontal maintenance in Marlton also helps preserve teeth by maintaining the health of your gums, preventing tooth loss, and the need for more extensive dental treatments.
3. Overall Health Benefits: Research has shown a link between periodontal disease and systemic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Maintaining healthy gums can contribute to better overall health.
4. Maintaining Aesthetic Results: Periodontal maintenance is essential for preserving the aesthetic results of a smile for patients who have undergone cosmetic dental treatments.

What to Expect During a Periodontal Maintenance Appointment at Acorn Dental

At Acorn Dental, periodontal maintenance is a comprehensive process designed to address your unique needs and ensure optimal gum health. Here’s what you can expect during a periodontal maintenance appointment with Dr. Woodfork in Marlton:

1. Thorough Examination:
   • The appointment begins with a thorough examination of your gums and teeth. Dr. Woodfork will assess the health of your gums, checking for signs of inflammation, bleeding, or pocketing around the teeth. This examination helps identify any areas of concern that may need further attention.
2. Deep Cleaning:
   • One of the key components of periodontal maintenance is deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing. This process involves removing plaque and tartar from below the gum line and smoothing the tooth roots to prevent bacteria from accumulating. Deep cleaning helps reduce inflammation and promotes the reattachment of the gums to the teeth.
3. Monitoring and Assessment:
   • During the appointment, we will measure your gum pockets to monitor the depth and determine if any areas are deepening, which could indicate disease progression. Regular monitoring is crucial for catching potential problems early.
4. Personalized Oral Hygiene Instruction:
   • Maintaining good oral hygiene at home is essential for the success of periodontal maintenance. Dr. Woodfork and his team will provide personalized instructions on how to care for your gums and teeth at home, including brushing techniques, flossing, and antimicrobial mouthwash.
5. Discussion of Ongoing Care:
   • Periodontal maintenance is an ongoing process, and keeping up with regular appointments is important. Dr. Woodfork will discuss your personalized maintenance schedule, which may include visits every three to four months, depending on your needs.
6. Review of Overall Health:
   • Because periodontal disease can be linked to other health conditions, Dr. Woodfork may review your overall health and medical history to ensure that all factors contributing to your gum health are being addressed.

Periodontal Therapy and Disease Treatment at Acorn Dental

For patients who have been diagnosed with periodontal disease, Acorn Dental offers comprehensive periodontal therapy and treatment options to address the condition and prevent its progression.

Periodontal Therapy

Periodontal therapy in Marlton at Acorn Dental involves a range of treatments designed to combat gum disease and restore the health of your gums. These treatments may include:

• Scaling and Root Planing: This deep cleaning procedure is often the first step in treating periodontal disease. It involves removing plaque and tartar below the gum line and smoothing the tooth roots to promote healing.
• Antibiotic Therapy: In some cases, we may prescribe antibiotics to help eliminate infection-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation.
• Laser Therapy: Laser technology can remove infected gum tissue and promote healthy tissue regeneration. This minimally invasive option can be highly effective in treating periodontal disease.
• Surgical Interventions: In more advanced cases of periodontal disease, surgical procedures such as flap surgery or bone grafting may be necessary to restore the health of the gums and supporting structures.

Periodontal Disease Treatment in Marlton

Treating periodontal disease early is crucial for preventing tooth loss and other complications. At Acorn Dental, Dr. Woodfork provides personalized treatment plans tailored to the severity of the disease and the patient’s individual needs.

• Early-Stage Treatment: For patients with early-stage gum disease (gingivitis), treatment may focus on improving oral hygiene and performing a professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar.
• Moderate to Advanced Treatment: For more advanced cases, periodontal therapy such as scaling and root planing, antibiotic therapy, and laser treatment may be necessary to control the disease and prevent further damage.
• Maintenance and Follow-Up: Regular maintenance appointments are essential to ensure the disease does not recur after completing periodontal therapy. Ongoing care and monitoring are key components of successful periodontal disease management.

Why Choose Acorn Dental for Periodontal Therapy in Marlton?

Choosing the right dental practice for your periodontal care is essential for achieving and maintaining optimal gum health. Here’s why Acorn Dental, led by Dr. Woodfork, is the best choice for periodontal maintenance, therapy, and disease treatment in Marlton:

1. Experienced and Compassionate Care:
   • Dr. Woodfork has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating periodontal disease. His compassionate approach ensures patients receive personalized care tailored to their unique needs.
2. State-of-the-Art Technology:
   • Acorn Dental uses the latest dental technology, including advanced tools for deep cleaning, laser therapy, and digital imaging. This allows for precise and effective treatment of periodontal disease.
3. Comprehensive Services:
   • From preventive care and periodontal maintenance to advanced periodontal therapy in Marlton and surgical interventions, Acorn Dental offers a full range of services to address all aspects of gum health.
4. Patient Education and Support:
   • Dr. Woodfork and his team educate patients about the importance of gum health and provide ongoing support to help them maintain their results. This care includes personalized oral hygiene instruction and regular follow-up care.
5. Commitment to Long-Term Health:
   • At Acorn Dental, the focus is on long-term health and prevention. Regular periodontal maintenance appointments are essential to this commitment, helping patients maintain healthy gums and avoid future complications.

Periodontal Maintenance in Marlton

Periodontal maintenance is a vital aspect of oral health care for patients who have experienced gum disease or undergone periodontal therapy. At Acorn Dental in Marlton, Dr. Woodfork and his team provide comprehensive periodontal maintenance, therapy, and disease treatment to help patients maintain healthy gums and a beautiful smile.

Whether you need routine maintenance or more advanced periodontal care, Acorn Dental is here to provide the expert care you deserve. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Woodfork today to learn how periodontal maintenance can benefit your oral health and ensure a lifetime of healthy smiles.