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Discover Aetna Dentists for Effective Deep Gum Cleaning

aetna dentist for deep gum cleaning

You’re facing gum disease and need deep cleaning—scaling and root planing—to restore your oral health. If you’re looking for an aetna dentist for deep gum cleaning in the Charlotte area, you’ll want to understand the procedure, your coverage options, and how to find the right provider. This guide walks you through each step, from what to expect during treatment to coordinating Aetna or Medicaid benefits and planning for dentures if you need them.

Understand deep gum cleaning

What is deep gum cleaning?

Deep gum cleaning, also called periodontal scaling and root planing, is a nonsurgical treatment aimed at removing plaque and tartar from above and below your gumline. As a first-line therapy for mild to moderate gum disease, it helps eliminate disease-causing bacteria, eases bleeding and soreness, and lowers your risk of tooth loss (Cleveland Clinic).

How the procedure works

  1. Scaling: Your dentist or hygienist removes plaque and hardened tartar from tooth surfaces above the gumline using hand instruments or an ultrasonic scaler.
  2. Root planing: Below the gumline, roots are smoothed to discourage bacterial buildup and promote gum reattachment.
  3. Visits: You may complete treatment in one or more appointments, often dividing your mouth into quadrants. Each session lasts about an hour, and in some cases your provider may prescribe antibiotics or a medicated mouthwash to reduce infection risk (Healthline).

Benefits and recovery

  • Reduces pocket depths where bacteria thrive
  • Minimizes gum bleeding and swelling
  • Prevents further bone loss and tooth loss
  • Improves overall oral health and breath

Most patients return to normal activities immediately. You might experience mild sensitivity or discomfort for 5 to 7 days, sometimes longer in severe cases. A soft diet, gentle brushing, and flossing help you recover comfortably.

Explore Aetna coverage

Covered periodontal services

Aetna plans generally cover scaling and root planing when you have periodontal pockets deeper than 4 mm. Coverage details vary by plan, so review your summary of benefits or contact customer service. For specifics on in-network periodontal cleaning, see our guide on periodontal cleaning with Aetna.

Copays and deductibles

  • Deductible: You may pay your full deductible before coverage kicks in.
  • Coinsurance: Most plans require 20%–50% coinsurance for deep cleaning.
  • Annual maximums: Check your policy’s dental maximum to avoid surprises.

Claims and authorizations

  1. Preauthorization: Submit a periodontal charting and treatment plan for approval.
  2. Claim filing: Your provider files claims electronically.
  3. Explanation of Benefits: Review your EOB to confirm covered amounts and patient responsibility.

Find Aetna dentists

Use the online directory

Log into your Aetna member portal and use the “Find a Dentist” tool. Filter results by specialty (periodontist or general dentist offering deep cleaning) and location to view in-network providers near you.

Select the right provider

  • Experience: Look for dentists with additional training in periodontal therapy.
  • Reviews: Check patient ratings and testimonials.
  • Technology: Inquire about ultrasonic scaling and digital charting for precision.

Prepare for your appointment

Bring your Aetna ID card, a list of medications, and any recent X-rays or periodontal charts. Arrive 10 minutes early to complete new-patient forms and verify your benefits.

Compare insurance options

Plan Deep cleaning coverage Estimated coinsurance Learn more
Aetna Scaling & root planing (pockets >4 mm) 20%–50% Periodontal cleaning with Aetna
BCBS Deep cleaning for gum disease 20%–40% BCBS insurance for deep cleaning
Cigna Gum therapy, scaling & root planing 25%–45% Gum therapy covered by Cigna dental
Delta Periodontal scaling + maintenance visits 20%–50% Scaling and root planing with Delta Dental

Coverage terms change regularly, so verify your plan’s current benefits before scheduling treatment.

Access denture services

Aetna denture coverage

If deep cleaning reveals advanced bone loss or missing teeth, Aetna may cover dentures after you complete periodontal therapy. Learn about implant-supported options at implant-supported dentures with Aetna.

Medicaid denture options

Medicaid beneficiaries may qualify for full or removable dentures if they meet medical necessity criteria:

Partial vs full dentures

Choosing between partials and full dentures depends on how many teeth you need replaced and your jawbone health. Compare options at partials and full dentures covered by insurance.

Maintain gum health

At-home oral care

  • Brush twice daily with a soft-bristle brush
  • Floss or use interdental cleaners once a day
  • Rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash

Professional maintenance

After scaling and root planing, schedule regular periodontal maintenance every 3–4 months. Many insurance plans help cover these visits; see periodontal maintenance covered by insurance.

Screening and follow-up

Consistent checkups allow your dentist to monitor pocket depths, gum recession, and bone levels. Early detection prevents recurrent gum disease.

Plan treatment costs

Estimate your fees

  • Deep cleaning: Typically $100+ per quadrant without insurance
  • Periodontal maintenance: $75–$200 per visit
  • Dentures: $600–$1,500 for full sets, varies by materials

Payment and financing

  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Accounts (HSA) cover eligible services
  • Many practices offer payment plans or third-party financing

Maximizing your coverage

  • Use preventive visits to reduce the need for deep cleaning
  • Check annual maximums and schedule services early in the plan year

Take next steps

Gather your documents

Collect your Aetna ID, previous dental records, X-rays, and medical history to streamline authorizations.

Contact your insurer

Call the number on your Aetna card to confirm your deep cleaning and denture benefits, deductible status, and preauthorization requirements.

Schedule your cleaning

Once you’ve verified coverage, book an appointment with your chosen Aetna dentist. Early intervention helps you avoid advanced gum disease and costly treatments later.

By understanding deep gum cleaning, verifying your Aetna or Medicaid coverage, and selecting an experienced provider, you’ll be on the path to healthier gums and a more confident smile.

Take the first step towards achieving a beautiful, healthy smile

Book an Appointment

To schedule an appointment, please complete and submit the request form. Our scheduling coordinator will contact you soon to confirm your appointment.

Please note this form is for requesting an appointment. If you need to cancel or reschedule an existing appointment, or if you require immediate attention, please contact our practice directly.

Your smile is yours forever, and we want to make it as easy as possible for you to receive the best dental care when you need it. Our practice accepts most major credit cards and insurance plans.
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