Periodontal Gum Disease Evaluation and Treatment
A periodontal or “gum” evaluation is performed at each examination to assess each patient’s risk for gum disease. Gum disease is diagnosed based upon certain factors, such as tissue inflammation or bleeding, bone loss, loose teeth, tartar accumulation, and/or certain health factors such as diabetes, cardiovascular problems, and even linked dementia and pre-term low birth weight babies. If present, the dentist or hygienist doing the exam will diagnose the disease as a category of severity and identify the treatment.
Most often a “deep” dental cleaning, more formally known as scaling and root planning, is necessary. A deep cleaning targets under the gums and is a longer, more extensive cleaning procedure to get rid of the disease. Continual maintenance is key to the management of the disease, so regular (every 3-6 months) periodontal maintenance is required.
Frequently Asked Questions About Periodontal Disease
Take some time to read some of our most frequently asked questions regarding periodontal exams! Don’t see a question you have below? Feel free to contact us so we can answer it for you!
A periodontal exam is an examination of the gums to ensure maximum health.
Ensuring that your gums are healthy is of paramount importance. Gum disease has been linked to diabetes, cardiovascular problems, and pre-term low birthweight babies.
If during your periodontal exam we find signs of gum disease, we will assess the severity and will likely perform a deep dental cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing.
One of the biggest ways to prevent gum disease is by having great oral hygiene, such as brushing twice a day and flossing regularly.
