Periodontal Maintenance in Sterling, Leesburg & Aldie, VA

At NOVA Implant & Perio Specialists, Dr. Jean-Claude Kharmouche provides comprehensive periodontal maintenance for patients who have been treated for gum disease or periodontal infections. Unlike standard cleanings, periodontal maintenance is a specialized therapy designed to control inflammation, prevent reinfection, and preserve the health of your gums, bone, and dental implants.

Patients from Sterling, Leesburg, and Aldie, VA rely on our periodontal expertise to maintain stable, long-lasting results after treatment.

Appointment

What Is Periodontal Maintenance?

Periodontal maintenance is a structured follow-up program performed every 3–4 months to manage gum disease after active treatment.
This visit includes deep cleaning below the gumline, monitoring bone levels, checking periodontal pockets, and ensuring inflammation stays under control.

Because periodontal disease is chronic—and cannot be cured—ongoing maintenance is essential to prevent relapse.
With regular care, patients can preserve healthy gums and protect their natural teeth for life.

Benefits of Periodontal Maintenance

Prevent progression of gum disease

Maintain bone support around teeth or implants

Reduce risk of tooth loss

Control plaque and tartar in deep areas

Protect overall health by reducing inflammation

Maintain a healthy, comfortable smile

What Happens During a Periodontal Maintenance Visit?

Step 1: Periodontal Examination

Dr. Kharmouche measures probing depths, checks gum stability, evaluates bone levels, and identifies early signs of infection or inflammation.

Step 2: Deep Cleaning Below the Gumline

Bacteria and plaque are removed from periodontal pockets and root surfaces using microsurgical instruments and ultrasonic scalers.

Step 3: Irrigation & Antimicrobial Therapy

Antimicrobial solutions may be placed to reduce bacterial activity and support pocket healing.

Step 4: Polishing & Oral Hygiene Reinforcement

Teeth are polished, problem areas are reviewed, and personalized home-care recommendations are provided.

Appointment

Who Needs Periodontal Maintenance?

You may need periodontal maintenance rather than routine cleanings if you have:

A history of periodontal disease
Bone loss around teeth
Deep periodontal pockets
Bleeding gums or recurring inflammation
Dental implants or implant-supported restorations
A previous history of scaling and root planing or gum surgery

During your evaluation, Dr. Kharmouche will determine the ideal maintenance schedule for your specific condition.

Why Is Periodontal Maintenance Important?

After scaling and root planing, gum surgery, or implant therapy, harmful bacteria can repopulate in as little as 12 weeks.
Without maintenance, patients may experience:

Recurring gum inflammation
Bone loss around natural teeth or implants
Gum recession
Tooth loosening or tooth loss
Increased risk of systemic health issues

Periodontal maintenance keeps bacteria levels low, inflammation under control, and bone structures stable.

How Often Do I Need Periodontal Maintenance?

The typical schedule for periodontal maintenance is:

Every 3 months for patients with active or past periodontal disease
Every 4 months for stable cases
Individually customized for implant patients

Regular maintenance is the most effective way to protect the investment you’ve made in your periodontal and implant treatments.

Periodontal Maintenance vs. Regular Cleanings

It’s important to understand the difference:

Regular Dental Cleaning (Prophylaxis):

For patients without gum disease
Focuses on above-the-gum cleaning
Preventive in nature

Periodontal Maintenance:

For patients with a history of gum disease
Addresses deeper pockets and root surfaces
Prevents relapse and progression
Required even after successful treatment

If you’ve been treated for gum disease, periodontal maintenance is the only appropriate long-term follow-up.

Frequently Asked Questions About Periodontal Maintenance

Why can’t I return to regular cleanings?

Because periodontal disease permanently affects the bone and gum attachment. Regular cleanings do not clean deep enough, which could allow the disease to return.

Does periodontal maintenance hurt?

Most patients experience little to no discomfort. We use gentle techniques, numbing options, and advanced technology for comfort.

Will insurance cover periodontal maintenance?

Most dental insurance plans provide coverage, though frequency varies. Our team will verify your benefits for all three of our locations.

Can periodontal maintenance stop gum disease completely?

While it cannot “cure” gum disease, it effectively controls it—preventing bone loss, infection, and tooth loss.

Am I a good candidate for a single dental implant?

If you’re generally healthy with adequate jawbone support, you are likely a strong candidate. A consultation will determine this.