Periodontal maintenance therapy for long-term tooth preservation and adequate oral health: a narrative review and case series.

OBJECTIVE

Periodontal diseases can lead to progressive attachment loss and eventual tooth loss if untreated. Following the successful completion of active therapy, periodontal maintenance therapy plays a vital role in preserving periodontal health by controlling inflammation and monitoring conditions. This narrative review and case series evaluates the effectiveness of periodontal maintenance therapy in preserving teeth over long-term follow-up and explores relevant literature to highlight best practices.

DATA SOURCES: A search of PubMed was conducted using key terms related to periodontal maintenance therapy, tooth survival, and prognosis. Articles published between 1 January 1978 and 15 December 2024 were reviewed. Inclusion criteria focused on studies written in English and evaluating periodontal maintenance therapy outcomes. Four clinical cases illustrate the role of periodontal maintenance therapy in maintaining periodontal health across different patient profiles.

CONCLUSION

Periodontal maintenance therapy, when combined with patient compliance and individualized interventions, is effective in preserving teeth in periodontally compromised patients. Collaborative care between general dental practitioners and specialists further optimizes the outcomes. Regular monitoring and patient education are paramount to long-term success.