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Periodontal Disease - Diagnosis
Periodontal disease is diagnosed by your dentist or dental hygienist during a periodontal examination, which is part of your regular dental check-up.
A periodontal probe (small dental instrument) is gently used to measure the pocket or space between the tooth and the gums. A healthy depth measures three millimeters or less and does not bleed. If pockets are deeper than three millimeters, you need periodontal care. Here are the various diagnoses from your dentist:
- 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.
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