The AAP recommends annual periodontal charting/evaluation on all adult patients. Legal age considered for adulthood would be 18, but in many cases waiting until that age for the first periodontal chart to be recorded, a clinician will find themselves overlooking / documenting active infection.

Why is perio maintenance every 3 months?

Why Three Months? Periodontal maintenance takes place within three months because that is the estimated time for the bacteria to reproduce and affect the teeth and gums. These bacteria will multiply so constant maintenance visits are necessary to prevent their growth.

How often should root planing be done?

Individuals with healthy teeth and gums only need a regular dental checkup and cleaning twice a year; however, depending on the severity of your periodontitis, your dentist may recommend scaling and root planing, also known as a deep cleaning, at least twice a year or more.