What Is A Periodontal Exam?
Periodontal exams are crucial components of oral health care, primarily focused on assessing the health of your gums and the structures supporting your teeth. During a periodontal exam, our dental hygienist performs several key tasks:
- Gum Health Check: The exam involves checking the gums for signs of inflammation, swelling, redness, or bleeding, which can indicate gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis).
- Measurement of Pocket Depths: A small dental instrument called a probe is used to measure the depth of the spaces (pockets) between the teeth and gums. Healthy gums usually have shallow pockets, but deeper pockets can be a sign of periodontal disease.
- Teeth Examination: The exam includes checking for loose teeth, as periodontal disease can lead to bone loss around the teeth, causing them to become loose.
- Gum Recession: Your dentist will check for receding gums, which can expose more of the tooth or the tooth’s root, increasing the risk for cavities and sensitivity.
- X-ray Evaluation: Sometimes, dental X-rays are taken to observe the bone levels around your teeth, looking for any signs of bone loss due to advanced periodontal disease.
- Plaque and Tartar Check: The dentist will check for plaque and tartar buildup on your teeth. Tartar can harbor harmful bacteria that contribute to periodontal disease.
- Occlusion Check: Assessing how your teeth fit together when you bite, as misaligned teeth can contribute to periodontal disease.
After the exam, if any signs of periodontal disease are found, your hygienist will help recommend an appropriate treatment plan. This could range from improved home care techniques, more frequent professional cleanings, scaling and root planing (deep cleaning), or in severe cases, referral to a periodontist or dentist.
Regular periodontal exams are essential for maintaining good oral health and preventing the progression of gum disease.
X-rays and More: Your Guide to Periodontal Exams
Gum Health Assessment
During your Periodontal Exam, our dental hygienist meticulously checks your gums for signs of inflammation, swelling, redness, or bleeding. This critical evaluation helps identify early indicators of gum disease, such as gingivitis or periodontitis.
X-Ray Evaluation
Dental X-rays are taken to observe the bone levels around your teeth, looking for any signs of bone loss due to advanced periodontal disease. This step provides crucial insights into the overall health of your teeth and supporting structures.
Bone Assessment
During your exam, we conduct a thorough check for loose teeth, a potential consequence of bone loss surrounding the teeth due to periodontal disease. We also examine gum recession, evaluating whether the gums have receded and potentially exposed roots, leading to increased susceptibility to cavities and sensitivity.
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Frequently Asked Questions
For optimal gum health, we recommend scheduling a Periodontal Exam every six months as part of your regular oral care routine.
No, the Periodontal Exam is generally painless. It involves a thorough assessment of your gums, and any discomfort is kept to a minimum.
Signs include bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, gum recession, and loose teeth. However, routine exams are essential for early detection, even in the absence of symptoms.
Yes, gum disease is treatable. Early detection and intervention through treatments such as scaling and root planing can effectively manage and improve gum health.
Many dental insurance plans cover Periodontal Exams as part of routine dental care. It’s recommended to check with your insurance provider for specific coverage details.
Untreated gum disease can lead to tooth loss, bone damage, and an increased risk of systemic health issues.
