What Is Periodontal Maintenance Cleanings?
If you’ve had gum disease treatment, your dentist may recommend periodontal maintenance cleanings instead of regular cleanings. But what is periodontal maintenance cleanings, and why is it necessary?
Periodontal maintenance is a specialized cleaning procedure designed for patients who have been treated for periodontitis (advanced gum disease). Unlike routine cleanings, which focus on surface plaque removal, periodontal maintenance targets deeper gum pockets to prevent infection recurrence.
Regular periodontal cleanings help keep gum disease from worsening, reducing the risk of tooth loss, bone damage, and painful infections.
How Is Periodontal Maintenance Different from Regular Cleanings?
| Feature | Routine Cleaning | Periodontal Maintenance |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Removes surface plaque and tartar | Removes deep bacteria and plaque from gum pockets |
| Who Needs It? | Patients with healthy gums | Patients with past or active gum disease |
| Frequency | Every 6 months | Every 3-4 months |
| Cost | $75 – $200 | $150 – $400 per visit |
Periodontal maintenance is necessary to prevent the return of gum disease after deep cleaning treatments.
Who Needs Periodontal Maintenance Cleanings?
Your dentist may recommend periodontal maintenance if you have:
✔ A history of gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis)
✔ Bleeding, swollen, or receding gums
✔ Deep gum pockets that trap bacteria (4mm or more)
✔ Tooth sensitivity or persistent bad breath
If you’ve had scaling and root planing (deep cleaning), periodontal maintenance ensures your gums stay healthy long-term.
Why Are Periodontal Maintenance Cleanings Important?
Skipping periodontal maintenance can lead to severe gum infections, tooth loss, and even systemic health issues like heart disease and diabetes complications.
Benefits of Periodontal Maintenance
✔ Stops gum disease from returning
✔ Reduces gum inflammation and bleeding
✔ Prevents bone loss and tooth loss
✔ Improves breath and overall oral health
Maintaining healthy gums is crucial for keeping your teeth and overall health in check.
How Much Do Periodontal Maintenance Cleanings Cost?
Periodontal maintenance is more expensive than routine cleanings due to its specialized nature and frequency.
Cost Breakdown
| Treatment | Cost Without Insurance | Cost With Membership Plan | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Per Visit | $150 – $400 | $75 – $200 | 30-50% |
| Annual Maintenance (3-4 visits) | $600 – $1,600 | $300 – $800 | 30-50% |
Costs vary based on the severity of gum disease and the dentist’s location.
How to Save on Periodontal Maintenance Cleanings
If you’re concerned about the cost, here are affordable ways to get periodontal maintenance without overpaying.
1. Join a Dental Membership Plan
A dental membership plan provides discounted periodontal treatments without requiring insurance.
✅ Save 30-50% on periodontal cleanings
✅ No waiting periods, deductibles, or annual maximums
✅ Immediate savings on deep cleanings & other treatments
Example Savings: A yearly periodontal maintenance plan costing $1,200 could be reduced to $600 with a membership plan.
Find affordable periodontal plans at The Patient Marketplace.
2. Check Your Dental Insurance Coverage
✔ Many PPO dental plans cover periodontal maintenance under major services.
✔ Some insurance covers 50-80% of the cost.
✔ Medicare Advantage plans may include periodontal treatments.
Call your provider to confirm your benefits before scheduling treatment.
3. Ask About Payment Plans & Financing
✔ CareCredit – 0% interest financing for qualified applicants.
✔ Sunbit – Flexible, budget-friendly monthly payments.
✔ In-house financing – Many dentists offer low monthly payment plans.
Spreading payments over time makes treatment more affordable.
4. Visit a Dental School for Low-Cost Periodontal Care
✔ Dental students perform supervised cleanings at discounted rates.
✔ Save up to 50% compared to private dental offices.
Search for local dental schools offering periodontal maintenance cleanings.
What Happens If You Skip Periodontal Maintenance?
⚠ Ignoring periodontal cleanings can cause severe oral health problems:
❌ Gum disease recurrence and infection.
❌ Increased risk of tooth loss and bone deterioration.
❌ More expensive treatments like gum surgery or extractions.
Investing in periodontal maintenance now saves you from costly dental work later!
Success Story: How One Patient Saved 50% on Periodontal Maintenance
Meet Lisa, a 45-year-old who needed ongoing periodontal maintenance but worried about the cost.
Initial Cost Estimate: $1,200 per year for maintenance cleanings.
Her Solution: Lisa joined a membership plan through The Patient Marketplace for $25 per month.
Final Cost: $600 total—a 50% savings!
“I thought I couldn’t afford the ongoing cleanings, but with discounts, I kept my gums healthy without overspending!” – Lisa, 45
FAQs About Periodontal Maintenance Cleanings
Is periodontal maintenance necessary for everyone?
No, only patients with gum disease history or deep gum pockets need ongoing maintenance cleanings.
How often do I need periodontal maintenance?
Most patients need a cleaning every 3-4 months to keep gum disease from returning.
Does insurance cover periodontal maintenance cleanings?
Some PPO dental plans cover part of the cost, but coverage varies by provider.
Where can I find affordable periodontal cleanings?
Check The Patient Marketplace for discounted membership plans and low-cost providers.
Final Thoughts: Keep Your Gums Healthy with Periodontal Maintenance
Periodontal maintenance cleanings prevent gum disease from coming back, keeping your teeth, gums, and overall health in top shape.
Ways to Save on Periodontal Maintenance:
✔ Join a dental membership plan (save 30-50%)
✔ Check insurance for periodontal coverage
✔ Explore financing or visit a dental school
Need affordable periodontal maintenance? Visit The Patient Marketplace to find the best cost-saving options today!
