What is the main purpose of Phase IV periodontal care?

The main purpose of Phase IV periodontal care is supportive periodontal therapy. This phase is designed to maintain the health achieved through previous phases of treatment, which typically include intervention and active therapy. Supportive periodontal therapy involves regular monitoring of periodontal status, maintenance cleanings, and reinforcement of oral hygiene practices.

This ongoing care is essential for sustaining periodontal health and preventing the recurrence of disease in patients who have undergone initial treatment for periodontal conditions. By addressing the long-term needs of the patient, supportive periodontal therapy minimizes the risk of future periodontal issues and supports the overall stability of periodontal health.

The other options, while they may play roles at different stages of periodontal treatment, do not encapsulate the essence of Phase IV. Subgingival instrumentation is more aligned with active treatment phases, surgical intervention is a more drastic measure typically reserved for specific cases, and behavior and risk factor modification are important considerations but not the primary focus during the supportive phase after active treatment is completed.