Here’s how I try to stay on top of gum health: First, I set reminders for every three months, which is what my periodontist suggested after my last deep cleaning. I book the next appointment before leaving the office, since if I don’t, I’ll totally forget. Between visits, I use a soft toothbrush and floss daily (or, you know… almost daily—let’s be real). I also rinse with one of those mouthwashes they recommended, though sometimes I skip if I'm in a hurry.
I guess my main “system” is just not letting it slide too long. If my gums start bleeding or feel sore, that’s my cue to call in early. But honestly, I wonder if three months is too much? Some friends say they only go twice a year and do fine. Am I overdoing it, or is there something smarter you all do to remember and space out your appointments?
I totally get where you’re coming from—three months feels kind of frequent, but my periodontist also has me on that schedule since I had some gum issues last year. I used to just go twice a year too, but after my deep cleaning, they found pockets that needed closer monitoring. Honestly, I’d rather be a little “extra” than risk letting things slide. The reminders help a ton for me, but sometimes I wish I could stretch it out more like my friends do. Guess it depends on your history and how your gums react? I figure if the pros suggest three months, there’s probably a reason… even if it feels like a lot sometimes.
Three months feels like a lot to me too, but I guess that’s just the price of having “special” gums now. I used to laugh at my calendar reminders—like, how could I possibly forget about someone poking around in my mouth? But after skipping one appointment last year and getting a lecture (plus a not-so-fun cleaning), I’m all in for the reminders. I do wish I could be one of those twice-a-year folks again... but my gums clearly have other plans. At least it keeps me flossing more than just the week before my appointment, right?
Three-month intervals do feel frequent, but honestly, for anyone with a history of gum issues, it’s the standard. I get patients who wish they could go back to twice a year too—totally understandable. But once gums have shown signs of trouble, that extra vigilance helps prevent things from getting worse. Skipping even one visit can let things slide fast. If those reminders keep you flossing year-round, that's actually a win. Funny how a calendar alert can do more for oral health than a stern lecture sometimes...
Funny how a calendar alert can do more for oral health than a stern lecture sometimes...
Three months always sounded like overkill to me too, but after my last “surprise” gum infection, I’m not risking it. I used to just wing it and, well, gums told me otherwise. Honestly, calendar reminders are the only reason I floss more than once a week.
