Periodontal Disease Diagnoses
Periodontal disease is diagnosed by your dentist or dental hygienist during a periodontal exam, which should always be part of your regular dental check-up.
The periodontal exam
A small instrument called a periodontal probe gently measures the sulcus (pocket) between each tooth and the gums. A healthy pocket is three millimeters or less and does not bleed; as periodontal disease progresses, pockets usually get deeper. Pocket depth, bleeding, inflammation and tooth mobility together place the diagnosis in one of the stages below.
Stages of periodontal disease
- GingivitisThe first stage of periodontal disease. Plaque toxins make the gums tender, inflamed and likely to bleed.
- PeriodontitisPlaque hardens into calculus (tartar), the gums recede, and deeper pockets fill with bacteria and pus. Gums bleed easily, and slight to moderate bone loss may be present.
- Advanced periodontitisGums, bone and periodontal ligament continue to break down. Untreated teeth become very loose and may be lost; moderate to severe bone loss may be present.
Diagnosis
Periodontal disease is diagnosed during a periodontal exam, which should always be part of your regular dental check-up.Treatment
Periodontal treatment depends on the type and severity of the disease. Your dentist and hygienist will recommend the right treatment.Periodontal Treatment
Periodontal treatment methods depend upon the type and severity of the disease.Periodontal Maintenance
It only takes twenty four hours for plaque that is not removed from your teeth to turn into calculus (tartar)!What is a Periodontist?
A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in the soft tissues of the mouth and the underlying jawbone which supports the teeth.When to See a Periodontist
A periodontist specializes in preventing, diagnosing and treating gum and jawbone disease. Here's when a referral makes sense.
New patients welcome
Emergency calls and appointments are available and welcome, especially for new patients seeking help.