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.
At Hekmat Dental Care, located in Rancho Bernardo near 4S Ranch, Poway, Del Sur, and Carmel Mountain, 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.
Your dentist or hygienist will use pocket depths, amount of bleeding, inflammation, tooth mobility, etc., to make a diagnosis that will fall into one of the categories below.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the first stage of periodontal disease. Plaque and the toxic by-products irritate the gumline, making them tender, inflamed, and likely to bleed. Early signs include redness, swelling, and bleeding during brushing. It’s crucial to address gingivitis promptly to prevent it from progressing into more severe periodontal issues.
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
In the advanced stage, the teeth lose more support as the gums, bone, and periodontal ligament continues 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.
It’s important to get an action plan before reaching the advanced stage. If you notice any of these symptoms present, request an appointment today to start combatting the symptoms of periodontal disease at Hekmat Dental Care.