Many patients are surprised to learn that not all dental cleanings are the same. If your dentist or periodontist has recommended periodontal maintenance instead of a routine cleaning, you might wonder what the difference is and why it matters.
At Periodontal Specialists in Kansas City, we frequently explain this distinction to patients managing gum disease or a history of periodontal treatment. Understanding how periodontal maintenance differs from regular dental cleaning can help you protect your oral health and prevent future complications.
A regular dental cleaning, also known as a prophylaxis, is typically recommended for patients with healthy gums and no active periodontal disease.
Regular cleanings are usually scheduled every six months and are designed to prevent cavities and early gum inflammation.
Routine cleanings are generally appropriate for patients who:
For these patients, regular cleanings are usually sufficient to maintain oral health.
Periodontal maintenance is a specialized type of cleaning recommended for patients with a history of gum disease. It is not simply a “deeper” version of a regular cleaning; it’s a clinical procedure designed to manage chronic periodontal conditions.
Periodontal maintenance appointments are commonly scheduled every 3–4 months, depending on individual needs.
Gum disease is a chronic condition. Even after successful treatment, the bacteria that cause periodontal disease can often return below the gumline, where regular cleanings don’t reach.
Without periodontal maintenance:
Periodontal maintenance helps control the bacterial environment and reduce the risk of disease progression.
Periodontal maintenance is often performed or supervised by specialists trained in gum health.
Some patients wonder if they can return to regular cleanings once their gums “feel better.” Unfortunately, periodontal disease doesn’t always cause pain or visible symptoms.
Switching back prematurely may:
Your provider determines the appropriate type of cleaning based on clinical measurements, not how gums feel.
Consistent periodontal maintenance helps:
It’s considered a critical step in maintaining results after scaling and root planing or periodontal surgery.
You may be recommended periodontal maintenance if you have:
A periodontal evaluation determines the appropriate care plan.
Because periodontal maintenance is not preventive care, it is classified differently from routine cleanings by insurance providers.
Coverage may vary based on:
Your dental team can help explain benefits and submit appropriate documentation when needed.
Patients seeking specialized gum care in Kansas City often benefit from ongoing periodontal monitoring rather than one-time treatment. At Periodontal Specialists, periodontal maintenance is approached as a partnership focused on long-term stability, not short-term relief.
Consistent follow-up allows subtle changes to be identified early, when intervention is most effective.
Periodontal maintenance isn’t about adding extra visits; it’s about protecting your investment in gum treatment and preserving your natural teeth.
This approach is recommended because it:
While regular dental cleanings are ideal for maintaining healthy gums, they are not sufficient for patients with a history of periodontal disease. Periodontal maintenance is a distinct, targeted form of care designed to manage gum disease and protect long-term oral health.
Understanding the difference empowers patients to make informed decisions and stay proactive about their gum health.
If you’ve been told you need periodontal maintenance or want to better understand your gum health, the team at Periodontal Specialists is here to help.
Schedule a consultation with a trusted periodontal team in Kansas City to determine the care that’s right for you.
