6729 Lake Rd,
Windsor, WI 53598

Periodontal Maintenance

Windsor Family Periodontics Treat Gum Disease

Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is a manageable but chronic infection of tissues that requires a consistent, life-long treatment plan. This disease is present below the gumline and causes the attachment between the tooth and its supporting tissues to break down. In addition to gum damage, periodontal disease exacerbates heart disease, stroke, and diabetes due to the presence of inflammation. It's also contagious!

Our team is dedicated to providing patients with kind and compassionate care. We offer effective treatments for periodontal disease. If you need assistance in your pathway to periodontal health, contact the specialists at Windsor Family Dental. We treat all forms of gum disease, including gingivitis and periodontitis.

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The Warning signs of gum disease

Do you suspect you or a loved one has periodontal disease? Common symptoms to look out for include:

  • Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth. Periodontal disease is active below the gumline, which makes it impossible to reach with a toothbrush.
  • Red and inflamed gums that bleed easily.
  • Gums that have pulled away from the teeth (recession). It can be caused by clenching your teeth or brushing too hard.
  • Permanent (adult) teeth are loose, separating or flaring. This is a sign of attachment loss.
  • Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite or changes in the fit of a partial denture.

Periodontal maintenance to prevent gum disease in Dane County

What are the main causes of periodontal disease?

Gum disease is typically caused by a heavy build-up of bacteria from poor oral health habits such as a lack of regular brushing and flossing Without preventative treatments, teeth will gradually become loose due to loss of attachment to gums and bone and can fall out. Because periodontal disease is usually painless, people often do not realize the problem until it has reached an advanced stage. It's common for gum disease to begin as irritation and inflammation of the gums (known as gingivitis) and progress into periodontal disease if untreated.

Why is periodontal maintenance important?

If left untreated, periodontal pockets can lead to tooth loss. Plaque is a sticky film that forms on your teeth throughout your day and as you sleep. It’s made up of several strains of bacteria plus a sticky coating. The bacteria in plaque feed on carbs and sugars, producing acid as they metabolize the sugars. Prolonged irritation causes the gums to separate from the teeth, causing a periodontal pocket to form. As periodontal diseases progress, the supporting gum tissue and bone holding your teeth in place will deteriorate. 

 

The Difference between Regular Cleaning and Periodontal Maintenance

Regular Cleaning

Regular cleaning, known as prophylaxis, is geared towards prevention for individuals without periodontal disease. It's a surface-level cleaning aimed at averting potential issues. This procedure focuses on removing plaque, tartar, and stains from above the gumline. Its significance lies in its role as a preventative measure, crucial for maintaining oral health. Typically, it's recommended to undergo this cleaning every 2-3 times a year.

Periodontal Maintenance

Periodontal maintenance is a specialized treatment tailored to manage periodontal disease. This involves deeper cleaning targeted at issues below the gumline. It's particularly necessary for patients with specific gum conditions or a history of gum surgery. Unlike regular cleaning, periodontal maintenance is usually recommended every 3-4 months due to the severity of the issues it addresses.

How often do I need periodontal maintenance?

Bacteria have a 90-day life cycle, so it is important to disrupt the cycle with periodontal maintenance. Periodontal patients should schedule periodontal cleaning appointments every three months for life to maintain their oral health.

Do I need periodontal maintenance forever?

Periodontal disease is chronic and not curable but very controllable if properly maintained. Without adequate home care and maintenance, the signs and symptoms of periodontal disease will always return and your health could potentially deteriorate.

How to take good care of your teeth

  • Brushing for at least two minutes twice a day, and flossing at least once per day.
  • Invest in a water flosser. Studies have shown that water flossers, when used as an adjunct to traditional flossing are more effective.
  • Use an electric toothbrush instead of a manual toothbrush.

What causes gum disease?

  • Smoking
  • Diabetes
  • Stress
  • Clenching/grinding
  • Medication
  • Poor nutrition

Windsor Family Dental offers Periodontal services in Wisconsin

Periodontitis is a type of periodontal disease involving infection of the gums, gradually destroying the support of your natural teeth. Periodontal maintenance is a specialized type of cleaning performed to address the needs of patients with previous cases of periodontitis. We offer:

  • Full mouth debridement - a nonsurgical procedure that removes extensive plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth and under the gums. Polishing or additional treatments may be recommended after.
  • Scaling and Root Planing - a deep cleaning procedure that typically takes more than one dental visit and could require a local anesthetic. The dentist scales above and below the gum line to scrape away plaque and tartar and smooth out the rough root surfaces to help your gums reattach to your teeth.
  • Antimicrobial Medications - medications applied to treat patients with adult periodontitis (gum disease). Unlike oral antibiotics for gum infection, ARESTIN® is locally applied, delivering the antibiotic right where you need it, at the site of the gum infection.
Contact Windsor today if you're experiencing issues with your gums. We regularly serve patients out of Dane County and Columbia County in cities like Windsor, DeForest, Arlington, Waunakee, Sun Prairie, Madison and the surrounding areas.

Our comprehensive dental services include:

Teeth Cleaning Periodontal Maintenance Dentist for Kids Dental sealants

 

Periodontal Maintenance FAQs

 

What is included in periodontal maintenance?

Periodontal maintenance removes tartar buildup from your teeth to combat periodontal disease. For tartar to be removed from deep between your teeth and gums, your dentist will use scaling and root planing or full mouth debridement. This involves the removal of tartar from the entire length of each tooth, stopping where the gum, bone and root meet. You will only receive periodontal therapy if you have been diagnosed with periodontal disease.

Is periodontal maintenance the same as deep cleaning?

Yes. Periodontal maintenance is also known as deep cleaning. It is very similar to regular cleanings but regular cleanings are preventative while periodontal maintenance treats existing problems.

Can a general dentist do periodontal maintenance?

General dentists are capable of providing periodontal maintenance to individuals with gum disease. A periodontist may be recommended for patients with advanced cases of periodontal disease that a general dentist cannot treat. Stop gum disease before it occurs by seeing your dentist regularly for teeth cleanings.

Does a periodontal cleaning hurt?

Every experience is different depending on how deep your gum pockets are and the severity of your root surface irregularities. Pain may be inevitable if your periodontal pockets are deep, but dentists can provide anesthetic options to numb the area, reducing painful symptoms.

How long does a full mouth deep cleaning take?

The average time it takes to complete a deep cleaning is 45 minutes, but depending on the severity of your case it could take anywhere from 1 to 4 hours. In some cases, it takes two appointments to complete a full mouth deep cleaning. This is so one side of the mouth is done on the first visit and the other side is completed on the next visit.

Does dental insurance cover deep cleanings?

Yes. As long as your dentist diagnoses you with periodontal disease, your dental insurance plan should cover some part of your treatment. Dental insurance plans tend to cover dental procedures that are more preventative in nature such as regular cleanings or exams, so it may not be covered 100%. Talk to one of the dentists at Windsor Family Dental to figure out financing options for periodontal maintenance.

Is gum disease curable?

No, gum disease is not curable. With proper professional intervention and diligent oral hygiene habits, it can be effectively managed to control its progression and prevent further damage to the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. However, it requires ongoing treatment and maintenance as it is a chronic condition.

 

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Ann B.

I always enjoy my teeth cleaning with Emily. You can tell from her attitude that she really cares about her patients. She really is the best. Everyone is helpful at Windsor Family Dental. I highly recommend them.

Nick Z.

Dana, my hygienist, did a fantastic job. With over 25 years of experience, she skillfully engaged in conversation with me while working on my teeth, making the cleaning process pleasant and comfortable. I also had the pleasure of meeting Kristi, Dr. DeMatthew's assistant, who was friendly and personable. Dr. DeMatthew herself was articulate in explaining the details of my dental health, making sure I understood everything clearly. Overall, my experience at Windsor Family Dental was wonderful, and I highly recommend Dr. DeMatthew and her staff.

Kaci K.

I had to switch dental clinics because of insurance reasons and I am happy to have landed at Windsor Family Dental. The staff here is great and I love Dr. Zhao, she addressed a concern that I’ve had for years and put my mind at ease. Everyone made me feel comfortable and after my visit my lifelong dread of dental appointments has vanished.

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* Invisalign, whitening gels and strips, and resale items excluded from the 12% discount

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Adult (14 years & older)

$39/mo Save $422

Includes

2 Cleanings

2 Regular Exams

2 Fluoride Treatments

Routine X-rays

1 Emergency Visit (includes exam & x-ray)

Child (13 years & under)

$34/moSave $398

Includes

2 Cleanings

2 Regular Exams

2 Fluoride Treatments

Routine X-rays

1 Emergency Visit (includes exam & x-ray)

Perio - 3x per year

$67/moSave $663

Includes

3 Periodontal Maintenance Cleanings

2 Regular Exams

2 Fluoride Treatments

Routine X-rays

1 Emergency Visit (includes exam & x-ray)

Perio - 4x per year

$82/moSave $689

Includes

4 Periodontal Maintenance Cleanings

2 Regular Exams

2 Fluoride Treatments

Routine X-rays

1 Emergency Visit (includes exam & x-ray)

One-time enrollment fee of $99 for existing patients, new patients $149. Enrollment fee waived under annual membership option.

THIS IS NOT DENTAL INSURANCE. Cannot be combined with other insurance or discount plans. Membership plan is specific to one person and cannot be transferred. Covered services not used within the specified time period will not be carried over or transferred. Services will be provided at this location only. Membership plan will auto-renew each year on the renewal date. If a patient presents with periodontal infection, a personalized treatment plan will be presented at an additional cost. The perio plan is strictly for preventive maintenance care.

6729 Lake Rd,
Windsor, WI 53598

Fax: 608-846-2493

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