Periodontal maintenance therapy (PMT) or supportive periodontal therapy (SPT) is a program of regular visits to the dental hygienist designed to prevent periodontal disease from recurring in patients who have undergone periodontal surgery or who are prone to mild periodontal disease or gingivitis. This ongoing treatment will allow Dr. Richards to monitor your periodontal health and make sure your infection remains under control. During maintenance therapy, your mouth is examined (which includes probing your peridontal pockets and checking for oral cancer), new calculus and plaque are removed, your teeth are polished and, if necessary, your bite is checked.

How often should I have maintenace therapy?

This depends on your periodontal needs and will vary from person to person. Dr. Richards and your general dentist will work together to tailor a schedule that will optimise your oral health. In general, to keep your mouth healthy periodontal maintenance therapy is recommended every three months or four times per year. You may alternate your PMT visits between Dr. Richards' office and that of your general dentist.

You recommend that I have my teeth cleaned every 3 months, but my insurance only pays for a cleaning every 6 months. What do I do?

Unfortunately, dental insurance is not designed for optimal health for each person. Two cleanings a year may be the insurance minimum. If you need to have four cleanings a year to maintain optimal health, you need to do what is best for you, not the insurance company. If you care for your teeth and your general health, then paying for two extra cleanings per year really is a valuable investment.