Periodontal maintenance is a specialized type of dental care designed to prevent the return of gum disease after it has been treated. It is not the same as a regular cleaning, and it typically involves more frequent visits and more detailed cleaning techniques. Because of its specialized nature, many patients wonder what it will cost and whether it is something they can afford. The answer depends on a few factors, including your dental provider, the region where you live, your insurance coverage, and the severity of your condition.
The out-of-pocket cost for a single periodontal maintenance visit can vary depending on a number of factors, but it will likely range from $100 to $400. This estimate includes the cleaning itself, which often involves scaling below the gumline, as well as follow-up assessments to check for inflammation, bone loss, or changes in pocket depth. Some practices may charge additional fees for localized antibiotics, x-rays, or adjunctive therapies like laser treatment.
Influencing Factors
Your location plays a role in the total cost of care, since prices tend to be higher in major cities and affluent regions, where the overhead for dental offices is greater. Rural or less densely populated areas, then, may offer lower costs. In either case, it is worth asking for a detailed estimate before committing to a treatment plan. Some offices offer bundled pricing for those on a three-month schedule, which can provide modest savings over time.
Dental insurance coverage can significantly affect what you pay. Most standard plans cover periodontal maintenance as part of their periodontal benefits, although not always at 100 percent. Some plans will cover the majority of the cost for two to four visits per year, leaving you to pay the remainder. Others treat it as a separate benefit from regular cleanings and require you to meet your deductible first.
Be sure to check whether your provider considers periodontal maintenance “preventive” or “periodontal,” as this distinction influences reimbursement. If you are unsure how your plan treats these procedures, your dentist’s billing coordinator can often help clarify.
The High Cost of Skipping Treatment
While some patients only need visits every six months, many are placed on a schedule of every three to four months, especially in the first year following treatment. Over time, this adds up.
Some patients without insurance consider skipping periodontal maintenance in order to save money. Unfortunately, this can lead to a recurrence of gum disease, which may result in much higher treatment costs down the line. Periodontal surgery, tooth loss, or the need for implants can cost thousands of dollars. Seen in this light, maintenance visits are often the more affordable option. Some offices provide membership plans or cash discounts to help patients stay on track without insurance.
There is no single number that applies to everyone. However, the cost of periodontal maintenance is generally less than the cost of treating a relapse. If you have already undergone scaling and root planing, or you have been diagnosed with periodontal disease in the past, staying on a consistent maintenance schedule is usually the best investment you can make in your oral health. Regular cleanings may no longer be enough. Periodontal maintenance, although more involved, helps preserve what has already been repaired.
In the end, the best way to know what you will pay is to ask your provider directly. A clear conversation about pricing, insurance coverage, and available payment options will help you make an informed choice. Periodontal health is not just about your gums. It is about preserving the foundation for all your teeth.