The Connection Between Periodontal Diagnosis and Treatment Planning
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.
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.
What Your Dentist Looks for in Your Diagnosis
Your dentist or hygienist will use pocket depths, amount of bleeding, inflammation, tooth mobility, etc., to make a diagnosis that will fall into the category below:
- 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.
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- 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.
Expert Periodontal Diagnosis and Treatment Planning at Hastings Dental
At Hastings Dental, serving the Vancouver area, our expert team excels in periodontal diagnosis and treatment planning. Utilizing precise periodontal probes, we measure the sulcus depths to detect early signs of periodontal disease. Our comprehensive examinations assess pocket depths, bleeding, inflammation, and tooth mobility to diagnose conditions ranging from gingivitis to advanced periodontitis. This detailed diagnostic approach allows us to create customized treatment plans, ensuring effective management and optimal oral health. Trust Hastings Dental for professional, thorough periodontal care to prevent and treat gum disease.
