HOW TO KEEP YOUR GUMS HEALTHY

Once Dr. Caldwell has treated your periodontal disease, periodontal maintenance, or Supportive Periodontal Therapy (SPT), will enable you to take control of the disease and increase your chances of keeping your teeth as they are.

SPT will protect the foundation for good oral health which includes the gums, bone and roots of teeth. This treatment may be more frequent than the traditional 6 month recalls you have become accustomed to with your dentist. SPT may require that you see your dentist and Dr. Caldwell on an alternating 3 month schedule. This means that every 3 months, you will be seen by your dentist or Dr. Caldwell to protect your oral health and investment. Your recall protocol will be assessed by Dr. Caldwell and your dentist to suit your individual periodontal needs.

What is included in a SPT visit?

• Discussion of changes to health history
• Oral examination looking for any abnormal changes
• Measuring depths of pockets
• Cleaning teeth to remove bacterial plaque and tartar
• Taking any necessary x-rays to evaluate bone levels around teeth
• Examining teeth for decay
• Checking the way your teeth fit together (occlusion)
• Applying or prescribing medications to reduce tooth sensitivity
• During your visit, your dentist or Dr. Caldwell, will review your home hygiene routine and both may suggest changes to the protocol. If periodontal disease recurs, then additional treatment may be recommended.

Periodontal maintenance visits will protect your investment and keep your dental costs down by preventing future problems.  Gum disease is more than just gums. A commitment to SPT is your commitment to better overall health!