What is Supportive Periodontal Therapy (SPT)?
Supportive Periodontal Therapy, also referred to as Periodontal Maintenance, is one of the most important phases of gum treatment. Supportive Periodontal Therapy consists of a comprehensive examination, review of your periodontal status, and full mouth cleaning with hand and ultrasonic instruments followed by a tooth polishing.
Based on your individual needs, Dr. Jacobs or Dr. Bogart will make recommendations on the frequency of this supportive therapy. The majority of periodontal patients have supportive care every three months, but some come in more frequently, and others less. If you have a General or Restorative Dentist, these appointments are alternated between offices, so you receive optimal care.
What are the benefits of Supportive Periodontal Therapy?
Once you have been diagnosed with gum disease, you are unfortunately always susceptible to disease recurrence. No matter which active treatment modality you have selected, there is always a chance gum disease will return. Excellent oral hygiene and Supportive Periodontal Therapy are two essential tools necessary to keep your gums healthy.
Benefits of Supportive Periodontal Therapy
- Prevention of dental disease
- Early detection of dental disease
- Advice on home care techniques
- Protection of oral health
- Reduction of halitosis (bad breath)
Receiving Supportive Periodontal Therapy can reduce the probability of re-infection and the progression of your gum disease. Treatment may also locate and treat other conditions found in your oral cavity. In general, SPT is an important part of maintaining oral health.
What Can I Expect at a Supportive Periodontal Therapy Visit?
After reviewing your general health history and list of medications, a thorough oral cancer screening, general intraoral, extraoral, and gum examination are completed. If probing depths or pockets are recurring, treatment options are discussed. If there are areas where you can improve your oral hygiene, this is discussed as well. X-rays can be updated at this visit if needed.
Once this comprehensive exam is completed, a gentle and thorough full mouth cleaning is performed with both hand and ultrasonic instruments. There is little or no discomfort during or after the visit, and you can return to work immediately following treatment.
To schedule your Supportive Periodontal Therapy appointment at the office of Dr. James Jacobs & Dr. Tara Bogart, call to speak with a friendly team member or book an appointment online today.
