Cleanings & Periodontal Maintenance

Dental cleanings are a vital part or your oral health and your overall health. Cleanings, otherwise known as prophylaxis, involve the removal of plaque and tarter from around the tooth surfaces primarily above the gum level. The ADA recommends cleanings twice per year, and for most people that’s sufficient. However, genetics, diet, medications, saliva production, and oral hygiene, among other factors, play a significant roll in our ability to maintain good oral health. Some of us require more frequent visits to the dentist. It’s important to remember that just because we need something, doesn’t mean that dental insurance will cover it. A common misunderstanding is that cleanings are free with dental insurance. While, this is true for most policies, a better interpretation is that cleanings are typically covered at 100% of the insurance company’s allowable amount, which may be less than our charge. In some cases, deductible’s, maximums, and frequency limitations may apply.

What’s the difference between Periodontal Maintenance and Cleanings? It’s really just semantics. Periodontal Maintenance is done following periodontal therapy which is treatment for gum disease and is basically a cleaning. However, this procedure may involve treating some areas sub-gingivally (below the gum level). Most people benefit from more frequent cleanings (3-4 times per year) following periodontal treatment to ensure that the disease (while chronic) doesn’t become active again. Sometimes insurance covers the extra two visits when coded this way, but often not. The goal is to eventually move the patient back to a six month schedule.