Difference between Hygiene Prophy (routine cleaning) and Periodontal Maintenance.

Prophy:  This procedure is performed on patients without any periodontal disease or history of disease.  It includes removal of plaque calculus on the structure of the tooth above the gum line with hand instruments or Cavitron Jet-Polishing system.  Routine cleanings should be performed on patients at a minimum of every six months, or more frequently for medical indications such as diabetes.  A prophy is intended to control local irritant factors and helps reduce the risk of cavities, gingivitis, and periodontal disease.

Periodontal Maintenance:  This procedure is done after periodontal therapy (“deep cleaning”, scaling and root planning, or periodontal surgery).  The primary objectives are the prevention of new disease as well as the prevention of recurrence of disease.  The maintenance phase represents supportive continuing care.  Periodontal maintenance will continue at varying intervals, determined by the clinical evaluation of the dentist/hygienist for the LIFE of the dentition or implant replacements to maintain the progress that has been made.  New Image Dentistry elects to treat periodontal maintenance aggressively to optimize your oral health and overall well-being.  You can expect the hygienist to ask you to start with a pre-procedural chlorhexidine gluconate rinse (0.12%), followed by removal of bacterial plaque and calculus above and below the gum line, site specific scaling and root planning where indicated, chlorhexidine gluconate irrigation, fluoride treatment and flossing of the teeth. If new or recurring periodontal disease appears, additional diagnostic and treatment procedures must be considered.  You will receive a summary of your periodontal status upon completion of your visit with Vicki or Faith.