How Periodontal Disease Is Diagnosed
Understanding how gum disease is diagnosed is essential for protecting your oral health. Periodontal evaluations are a regular part of your dental checkup, allowing early detection of any signs of gum problems before they become more serious.
The Role of Dental Checkups in Early Detection
Routine dental visits do more than just check for cavities—they’re also crucial for identifying gum disease in its earliest stages. Your dentist or dental hygienist performs a periodontal exam as part of your standard checkup to look for signs of gum inflammation, tissue damage, or bone loss.
What Happens During a Periodontal Examination
Interpreting the Findings: Categories of Diagnosis
To make an accurate diagnosis, your dentist or hygienist looks at a combination of factors including:
- The depth of gum pockets
- Bleeding during probing
- Visible inflammation
- Tooth looseness or shifting
These indicators help determine how far the disease has progressed and guide treatment recommendations.
Understanding the Stages of Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease doesn’t happen overnight. It develops in stages, each with distinct characteristics:
