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Diagnosing gum disease (periodontal disease)
Gum disease treatment and diagnosis on the South Shore in Milton, MA
A periodontal exam should always be part of your routine dental visit; this is when we check for symptoms of gum disease. The dentist will measure the space (sulcus) between the gum and tooth using a periodontal probe; this determines whether the space is deeper than 3 millimeters, the average depth of a healthy sulcus. The dentist likewise checks for inflammation, bleeding, or tooth mobility (all symptoms of periodontal disease). The following are three categories into which diagnosis may fall:
Gingivitis - When plaque collects on the teeth, its toxins irritate the gums; if gums are swollen, tender, or bleeding, the condition may be considered the first stage of periodontal disease.
Periodontitis - In this second stage of periodontal disease, calculus (or tartar) forms from hardened plaque. As this builds up, the gums can start to recede from the teeth, and spaces, or pockets, form between teeth and gums. These spaces become susceptible to bacterial infection, thereby irritating the gums. This condition may even bring about slight to moderate bone loss.
Advanced Periodontitis - As tissue around the teeth (bone, gums, and periodontal ligament) deteriorates, teeth loose support. Without treatment, teeth may become loose and even fall out. Bone loss can range from moderate to severe.
To learn more about periodontal disease treatment on the South Shore, contact dentist in Milton, MA. We are committed to providing the best gum care possible to our patients. |
