Get the Facts: Is Your Gum Therapy Covered by Cigna Dental?

Understanding your gum therapy coverage

If you’re wondering whether gum therapy covered by Cigna Dental includes the deep cleanings, periodontal maintenance and prosthetic services you need, you’re not alone. Many adults and seniors in Charlotte face gum disease, bone loss or missing teeth and rely on private insurance or Medicaid to restore their oral health. In this article, you’ll learn how Cigna dental coverage addresses periodontal treatments, dentures and related procedures. We’ll explain plan types, out-of-pocket costs, eligibility limits and Medicaid options so you can make informed decisions about your care.

Covered periodontal treatments

Periodontal therapy focuses on the tissues supporting your teeth. Cigna dental plans often cover several non-surgical treatments aimed at stopping gum infection and preventing tooth loss.

Scaling and root planing

• Purpose: Removes plaque and calculus below the gum line
• Procedure: Your provider numbs the area, then uses specialized instruments to clean root surfaces
• Coverage: Many Cigna DPPO, DHMO and DPOS plans include scaling and root planing once per quadrant every 12–24 months (Cigna)

Antibiotic therapy

• Topical gels or oral antibiotics help control bacterial growth
• Often combined with scaling and root planing for enhanced effectiveness
• Check your plan’s allowable frequency and any required copays

Periodontal maintenance

After active therapy, ongoing maintenance is crucial to prevent recurrence. Cigna typically covers periodontal maintenance cleanings twice a year. You can learn more about coverage for follow-up care in our guide to periodontal maintenance covered by insurance.

Surgical and advanced procedures

When non-surgical methods aren’t enough, surgical interventions may be necessary. Coverage for these procedures depends on your plan’s benefits and any applicable waiting periods.

Flap surgery and gum grafts

• Flap surgery lifts the gum tissue to remove tartar in deep pockets then repositions the tissue for better healing
• Gum graft procedures use tissue from your palate or a donor source to cover exposed roots and prevent further recession
• Verify if your policy includes “insurance for gum graft procedures” or requires preauthorization

Dental bone grafting

• Bone grafts help rebuild jawbone lost to advanced periodontitis
• Procedures range from simple particulate grafts to block grafts
• Coverage varies; you may need to meet a deductible or pay coinsurance

Exploring dentures and prosthetics

If tooth loss has resulted from gum disease or bone deterioration, dentures or implant-supported prosthetics can restore function and confidence. Many Cigna plans include benefits for both removable and fixed options.

Standard full and partial dentures

• Full dentures replace all teeth in an arch; partials fill gaps between remaining teeth
• Cigna’s full coverage dental plans may cover up to 50–80% of denture fabrication and fitting costs after deductible
• Look for cigna in-network denture provider to reduce your out-of-pocket expenses

Implant-supported dentures

• Combines implants anchored in the jaw with overdentures for improved stability
• Some plans cover implant placement and restorative attachment components separately
• Review your Evidence of Coverage for limits on implant services

Types of Cigna dental plans

Cigna offers several network and plan structures. Understanding these options helps you choose the right plan for periodontal care.

Plan structures

Full coverage vs limitations

• Preventive care (cleanings, exams) usually covered at 100%
• Basic restorative (fillings, root planing) covered at 70–80%
• Major services (crowns, dentures, grafts) covered at 50% after deductible
• Some plans impose frequency limits on surgical procedures

Cost considerations and limits

Even with coverage, you need to plan for deductibles, copays and annual maximums. Knowing these details prevents surprises on your bill.

Deductibles and copays

• Deductibles range from \$50 to \$150 per individual, resetting each calendar year
• Copays may apply for each quadrant of scaling and root planing or for surgical visits
• Coinsurance for major services typically 50% to 60%

Waiting periods and annual maximums

• Waiting periods: many plans require you to wait 6–12 months before coverage for dentures or gum grafts kicks in
• Annual maximums: the most your insurer will pay in a year, often between \$1,000 and \$2,000
• DHMOs often have no annual maximum but limit services to in-network providers

Evaluating Medicaid options in Charlotte

If you qualify for Medicaid, you may access periodontal services and denture coverage at little or no cost. Coverage varies by state and plan type.

Periodontal services under Medicaid

• Basic cleaning, fluoride treatments and exams are typically covered
• Some state plans include scaling and root planing once per year; confirm benefits with your dental office
• Learn more about participating providers at medicaid periodontal services

Denture coverage with Medicaid

• Many Medicaid programs cover full or partial dentures after a referral from a dentist
• Coverage may include adjustments and relines for the first year
• Review your plan’s provisions for medicaid coverage for removable dentures

Maximizing your benefits

You can make the most of your Cigna dental or Medicaid plan by adopting preventive habits and choosing in-network providers.

Preventive care strategies

• Schedule routine exams and cleanings every 6 months
• Follow your dentist’s recommendations for home care and periodontal maintenance
• Address gingivitis early to avoid costly deep cleanings (see insurance for gingivitis and periodontitis)

Choosing in-network providers

• In-network providers agree to negotiated fees, reducing your share of costs
• Use Cigna’s online directory to find a cigna approved dentist for scaling and root planing
• For dentures, seek a cigna in-network denture provider to lock in coverage percentages

Taking next steps

Once you understand your coverage and options, it’s time to finalize your plan and schedule care.

Confirming your benefits

1. Call Cigna customer service or log into your online account to verify coverage details, waiting periods and maximums
2. Ask about any preauthorization requirements for periodontal surgery or implant services
3. Request a predetermination of benefits for complex procedures to estimate your share of costs

Scheduling an appointment

• Gather relevant documents: insurance card, referral form (if required), recent X-rays
• Contact an in-network periodontist or general dentist who accepts your plan
• Discuss your treatment plan, timelines and financial responsibility before the visit

With a clear understanding of how Cigna dental coverage and Medicaid benefits apply to gum therapy, you can confidently pursue the periodontal treatment and denture services you need. By leveraging preventive care, choosing the right providers and confirming your benefits in advance, you’ll reduce surprises and keep your smile healthy for years to come.