Periodontal Disease Diagnosis and Examination
Periodontal disease is diagnosed by your dentist or dental hygienist during a periodontal examination. This type of exam should always be part of your regular dental check-up.
A periodontal probe (small dental instrument) is gently used to measure the sulcus (pocket or space) between the tooth and the gums. The depth of a healthy sulcus measures three millimeters or less and does not bleed. The periodontal probe helps indicate if pockets are deeper than three millimeters. As periodontal disease progresses, the pockets usually get deeper.
Stages and Diagnosis of Periodontal Disease
Your dentist or hygienist will use pocket depths, amount of bleeding, inflammation, tooth mobility, etc., to make a diagnosis that will fall into a category below:
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the first stage of periodontal disease. Plaque and its toxin by-products irritate the gums, making them tender, inflamed, and likely to bleed.
Periodontitis
Plaque hardens into calculus (tartar). As calculus and plaque continue to build up, the gums begin to recede from the teeth. Deeper pockets form between the gums and teeth and become filled with bacteria and pus. The gums become very irritated, inflamed, and bleed easily. Slight to moderate bone loss may be present.
Advanced Periodontitis
The teeth lose more support as the gums, bone, and periodontal ligament continue to be destroyed. Unless treated, the affected teeth will become very loose and may be lost. Generalized moderate to severe bone loss may be present.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q.
What is periodontal disease and how is it diagnosed?
Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums and supporting structures of your teeth. At Lakeside Family Dentistry, we diagnose it through a periodontal examination, which includes measuring gum pocket depths with a periodontal probe and assessing bleeding, inflammation, and tooth mobility. Healthy pocket depths are typically 3 mm or less and do not bleed.
Q.
What tools are used during a periodontal disease diagnosis?
Diagnosis involves a periodontal probe — a small dental instrument used to gently measure the space between your teeth and gums — along with a visual evaluation of your gums for signs of inflammation or bleeding.
Q.
Why is early diagnosis important?
Detecting periodontal disease early allows for less invasive treatments and can prevent bone loss, tooth mobility, and eventual tooth loss. It also gives you the best chance for successful long-term oral health.
Q.
Will my dentist take X-rays as part of periodontal diagnosis?
While the periodontal probe is key in diagnosis, X-rays may also be recommended to view bone levels and confirm the extent of disease — especially if deeper periodontal issues are suspected.
Q.
What happens if periodontal disease is diagnosed?
Once diagnosed, your dentist will recommend a treatment plan that may include deep cleaning (scaling & root planing), improved home care, or periodontal maintenance to help restore your gum health.
Q.
How do I prepare for a periodontal exam?
No special preparation is needed. Simply maintain your usual oral hygiene routine and plan to discuss any concerns with your dentist during your exam.