Periodontal Maintenance

Periodontal maintenance is the ongoing care that follows treatment for gum disease, helping to keep bacteria and inflammation under control after scaling and root planing or other periodontal therapy. It typically involves a closer look at gum pockets, removal of plaque and calculus below the gumline, and a review of at-home habits, spaced on a schedule your dentist recommends based on your gum health. At 1st Family Dental in Chicago, this care is available alongside our other periodontal treatments as part of an ongoing plan to manage gum disease over time.

What a Maintenance Visit May Include

Pocket Measurements — checking the depth of the space between gum and tooth to track changes since your last visit.
Below-the-Gumline Cleaning — removing plaque and tartar that build up in areas a regular cleaning doesn't reach.
Digital X-Rays — used as needed to monitor the bone that supports your teeth.
Home Care Guidance — practical advice on brushing, flossing and other habits between visits.

Specialty Support

For patients whose gum disease needs a periodontist's evaluation, Dr. Nadia Kawar and Dr. Shahram Raoof, both periodontists on our team, are available to help guide diagnosis and treatment planning. When appropriate, our Soft-Tissue Dental Laser and Intraoral Cameras can also support gum-related procedures and give you a clear view of your own oral health.

This content is for general information only and isn't dental or medical advice. Talk with your dentist or orthodontist about your own situation. If you have a medical emergency, call 911.