Periodontal maintenance cleaning is an essential part of obtaining and retaining dental health. All patients, including those who have been treated for periodontal disease, patients who have never had periodontal disease and even patients who have had teeth replaced with dental implants, benefit from this treatment.

It is a well-established fact that tooth decay, periodontal disease and many problems with dental implants are caused by bacterial accumulations on the teeth and gums. Even meticulous home care practiced by the most motivated patients leaves areas of hidden plaque accumulation.

The frequency for periodontal maintenance varies for each individual and is generally between 3 and 6 months. The effectiveness of home plaque removal, success of previous treatment and susceptibility to disease recurrence affect the maintenance interval. Other factors such as health status and smoking may increase the need for frequent professional prophylaxis.

Dr. Berkovich generally recommends alternating your maintenance cleanings between our office and your general dentist or prosthodontist. Dental implants also need periodic frequent maintenance to stay healthy. Much like natural teeth, bacterial plaque and calculus can deposit on the implants and associated crowns, bridges and attachments. Unlike teeth, they are no longer susceptible to decay, but can be severely damaged by bacterially induced bone loss.

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If you have any questions about the types of services we provide that you would like answered before you visit, please feel free to contact us. The San Francisco Center for Periodontics and Dental Implants team looks forward to meeting you and putting you on the path to the perfect smile.