Plaque can harden into calculus (tartar) in as little as 24 hours if not removed. Daily home care helps control plaque and tartar, but hard-to-reach areas require professional attention.

After completing periodontal treatment, your dentist and hygienist will recommend regular maintenance cleanings—typically every three months. During these appointments, pocket depths are carefully checked, and plaque and calculus that are difficult to remove at home are cleared from above and below the gum line.

Your maintenance visits usually include:

  • Diagnostic X-rays: Detect decay, tumors, cysts, bone loss, and assess tooth and root positions.
  • Examination of existing restorations: Check current fillings, crowns, and other dental work.
  • Tooth decay check: Inspect all tooth surfaces for signs of decay.
  • Oral cancer screening: Evaluate the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, cheek tissues, and gums.
  • Oral hygiene guidance: Recommend aids such as electric toothbrushes, special periodontal brushes, fluoride treatments, and rinses.
  • Teeth polishing: Remove plaque and stains not eliminated by brushing and scaling.

Consistent oral hygiene and regular periodontal cleanings are essential for maintaining dental health and keeping periodontal disease under control.