Periodontal maintenance and teeth cleanings can both promote healthy smiles, but periodontal treatment is specialized care. Here's how the two differ, with details on:
If you’re ready to book a periodontal maintenance or teeth cleaning appointment, simply contact West Vancouver Dental or click below to book online now.
While both cleanings support oral health, they serve different purposes—periodontal maintenance targets gum disease, while a regular cleaning is preventive care for healthy smiles. The table below breaks down the key differences at a glance.
If you’re scheduled for periodontal maintenance, you can expect a deeper cleaning that targets your gums as well as your teeth. Here’s a quick look at what your appointment usually includes.
Most patients report minimal discomfort during periodontal maintenance, especially compared to their initial deep cleaning. However, if your gums are particularly sensitive or inflamed, numbing agents or local anesthetic may be offered.
Some tenderness or mild bleeding afterward is normal, especially if it’s been a while since your last visit.
Your dentist or periodontist will usually recommend every 3 to 4 months, depending on your individual risk and response to previous treatment. These intervals are important because waiting 6 months or longer can give bacteria too much time to cause damage.
Many dental insurance plans do cover periodontal maintenance, but coverage can vary. It’s often billed differently than a regular cleaning, so it’s best to check with your provider or dental office in advance as you will often have a co-pay.
Without insurance, the cost typically ranges from $150 to $300 per visit, depending on the extent of cleaning required and your location.
If you've been diagnosed with gum disease, a regular prophylaxis cleaning is not enough to manage your condition. Bacteria that cause gum disease can hide deep below the gumline, where regular cleanings can’t reach.
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Skipping or replacing periodontal maintenance with a regular cleaning could allow gum disease to return and progress.
Think of it like this:
If you’ve been diagnosed with gum disease, remember that you’re not alone—and that with proper care, you can keep your teeth and gums healthy for life.
Periodontal maintenance is not just a cleaning; it's a vital part of managing a chronic condition.
By staying on top of your maintenance visits and daily home care, you’re investing in your oral and overall health.
If it's time for your cleaning or you're not sure what kind of care you need, contact West Vancouver Dental for helpful answers, convenient appointment options, and a personalized plan to keep your smile strong and healthy. You can also book your next periodontal appointment now by clicking the button below.
