Summer Is the Ideal Time to Care for Your Smile
During the summer, many patients find time in their schedule to focus on their health. Whether it is for a vacation, wedding, or just feeling refreshed, your smile plays an important role in how you look and feel.
One of the most common questions we hear at Dental Restorative Group is:
“What is the difference between a regular cleaning and periodontal maintenance?”
Although both are professional cleanings, they serve different purposes. Choosing the right one helps you maintain healthy teeth, protect your gums, and keep any previous dental work in excellent condition.
What Is a Prophy?
A prophy, short for prophylaxis, is a preventive dental cleaning recommended for patients with healthy gums and no history of periodontal disease. It is typically performed every six months as part of your regular dental care.
During a prophy visit, we:
- Remove plaque and tartar from above the gumline
- Polish your teeth to remove surface stains
- Evaluate your oral health for any signs of decay or early gum inflammation
Even if you are not experiencing pain or visible symptoms, this type of cleaning helps maintain oral hygiene, supports fresh breath, and allows us to catch any issues early before they become more serious.
What Is Periodontal Maintenance?
Periodontal maintenance is designed for patients who have been diagnosed and treated for gum disease, also known as periodontitis. Unlike a standard cleaning, this treatment is intended to manage a chronic condition and prevent it from returning.
This type of visit includes:
- Deep cleaning both above and below the gumline
- Removal of bacterial buildup in deeper areas
- Monitoring of gum pocket depth
- Evaluation for signs of bleeding, inflammation, or bone loss
Patients who have had periodontal treatment typically need maintenance cleanings every three to four months. This schedule helps prevent the disease from becoming active again.
Why Can’t I Go Back to a Regular Cleaning?
Many patients feel better after gum treatment. Their gums may no longer bleed, and brushing might feel easier. But even if symptoms improve, the damage from gum disease does not go away completely.
Like other chronic conditions, gum disease needs long-term care. Returning to regular cleanings too early can lead to reinfection and more bone loss. A prophy does not reach the deep pockets where harmful bacteria live.
Think of periodontal maintenance as ongoing care that protects the health of your teeth, gums, and supporting bone. It is not an extra step. It is part of a healthy routine for those who have had gum disease.
How to Know Which Type of Cleaning You Need
At Dental Restorative Group, we take the time to fully evaluate your oral health before recommending treatment. During your exam, we will review:
- Your dental and medical history
- The depth of your gum pockets
- Any signs of bone loss or gum inflammation
- Whether you have received previous periodontal care
If your gums are healthy and stable, a prophy may be all you need. If there are signs of gum disease or a history of treatment, periodontal maintenance will likely be the more appropriate option. We are always transparent in our care recommendations and will explain why a particular type of cleaning is in your best interest.
Why This Matters for Your Long-Term Health
Healthy gums are the foundation for strong teeth and successful dental restorations. As a prosthodontic practice, we specialize in complex treatments such as:
- Full-mouth reconstruction
- Dental implants
- Crowns, bridges, and veneers
All of these rely on healthy tissue and bone. If gum disease returns, it can put your restorations at risk. That is why maintenance cleanings are especially important for patients who have invested in advanced dental work.
Gum disease has also been linked to health conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and inflammation throughout the body. Caring for your gums supports not just your smile, but your overall well-being.
Why Summer Is an Ideal Time to Schedule Your Visit
For many of our patients in Belmont and Cambridge, summer offers a natural opportunity to take care of dental needs. Schedules tend to be more flexible, making it easier to:
- Schedule cleanings and check-ups
- Begin treatment plans for implants or prosthetic work
- Catch up on delayed care
- Start working toward long-term smile goals
Whether you are coming in for routine maintenance or beginning a complex treatment plan, our team is here to support your oral health with personalized care.
Take the Next Step Toward a Healthier Smile
If you are unsure whether you need a prophy or periodontal maintenance, we are here to help. Our team will evaluate your oral health, answer your questions, and recommend the best type of cleaning based on your needs.
Your smile is important, and so is the care you receive.
Schedule Your Summer Visit Today
Call Dental Restorative Group or book online to plan your next visit. We are proud to be a trusted name in prosthodontic care across New England and look forward to helping you maintain a healthy, confident smile this season and beyond.
