Periodontal Maintenance in Kennewick, Yakima & Walla Walla
If you’ve been treated for gum disease, ongoing care is essential to keep it from coming back. At EW Implants & Periodontics Center, we provide specialized periodontal maintenance cleanings designed to manage gum disease long-term—something a standard dental cleaning simply can’t do.
Our offices in Kennewick, Yakima, and Walla Walla offer trusted follow-up care for patients with a history of gum disease or bone loss.
Why a “Regular Cleaning” Isn’t Enough After Gum Disease
After you’ve had gum disease—especially periodontitis—your mouth is no longer considered “healthy” in the same way it was before. Bone loss, deep pockets, and a higher bacterial load mean you're more susceptible to reinfection.
A standard cleaning at a general dentist (prophylaxis) only removes plaque and tartar above the gumline. But gum disease-causing bacteria thrive below the surface, in deeper pockets that only a periodontal specialist is trained to access and treat.
That’s where periodontal maintenance comes in.
What Is Periodontal Maintenance?
Periodontal maintenance is a routine, specialist-level cleaning designed specifically for patients who have previously been treated for gum disease. This could include:
- Scaling and root planing
- Surgical periodontal treatment
- Laser therapy
- Gum grafting or bone regeneration
These cleanings are typically scheduled every 3 to 4 months to prevent bacterial repopulation and catch signs of recurrence early.
Each visit includes:
- Deep cleaning of pockets around the teeth
- Removal of plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline
- Monitoring of pocket depth and tissue health
- Evaluation of bone levels and tooth mobility
- Ongoing oral hygiene coaching to support long-term health
Specialized Care Led by a Periodontist
At EW Implants & Periodontics Center, your ongoing care is overseen by Dr. Abdullah Alkanan, a board-certified periodontist with advanced training in the diagnosis, treatment, and long-term management of periodontal disease.
What makes our approach different:
- Periodontal cleanings performed or supervised by a specialist
- Detailed charting and comparison over time to track changes
- In-house 3D imaging and diagnostics for high-risk areas
- Sedation options like IV sedation available if needed
If you've received treatment at another office and are now looking for long-term maintenance with a specialist, we’ll review your history and build a plan tailored to your needs.
Preventing Future Bone and Tooth Loss
Periodontal disease doesn’t “go away”—it goes into remission. Without proper maintenance, it can return and lead to:
- Progressive bone loss
- Gum recession
- Loose teeth or tooth loss
- Systemic inflammation affecting heart health and diabetes
Our goal is to stop the disease from advancing and protect the treatments you’ve already invested in—whether it's deep cleaning, surgery, or dental implants.
Who Needs Periodontal Maintenance?
You need regular periodontal maintenance if you have:
- A history of scaling and root planing or gum surgery
- Diagnosed bone loss or periodontal pocketing
- Gum recession or exposed roots
- A history of moderate to severe gum disease
- Dental implants that need ongoing monitoring
If you're unsure whether you need this type of care, we can perform a full evaluation and let you know what level of maintenance is appropriate.
Local Periodontal Care You Can Rely On
We’re proud to offer periodontal maintenance to patients across Eastern Washington who want to protect their oral health after gum disease. Our offices serve:
- Kennewick: Including Richland, Pasco, and Tri-Cities
- Yakima: Including Selah, West Valley, and Terrace Heights
- Walla Walla: Including College Place and Milton-Freewater
Whether you completed treatment with us or another provider, we’re here to help you stay on track.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How is periodontal maintenance different from a regular cleaning?
A regular cleaning focuses on the visible tooth surfaces above the gums. Periodontal maintenance is deeper, targeting areas below the gumline where bacteria can hide in pockets, especially in patients with a history of gum disease.
How often do I need periodontal maintenance?
Typically every 3 to 4 months. This schedule helps prevent bacterial regrowth and keeps inflammation under control.
Can my general dentist provide this type of cleaning?
Some general dentists offer limited maintenance, but they may not have the tools or training to fully assess and treat periodontal conditions. Periodontists specialize in long-term gum disease care and monitoring.
Does insurance cover periodontal maintenance?
Many dental insurance plans cover periodontal maintenance as a separate benefit from regular cleanings. Our team can help check your coverage details.
What happens if I skip these appointments?
Skipping maintenance increases your risk for gum disease recurrence, bone loss, and even tooth loss. Consistent cleanings are key to preserving your results.
Have more questions?
Our team is ready to discuss your implant options and address your concerns
