How We Diagnose Gum Disease

Details

What a Periodontal Evaluation Involves

Pocket Depth Measurements

We use a small, blunt measuring probe to check the space between your gum and each tooth, at six points around every tooth. 1–3 mm is healthy. 4–5 mm indicates early to moderate disease. 6 mm and deeper indicates advanced disease that’s difficult to clean at home. It feels like light pressure, not pain.

Bleeding Points

We record which sites bleed when probed. Bleeding indicates active inflammation, and the pattern tells us where the infection is currently doing damage.

Recession and Mobility

We measure how far gums have receded and check whether any teeth have become loose.

X-Rays for Bone Level

Only an X-ray shows how much supporting bone remains. Comparing images over the years shows whether the disease is stable or still progressing. See digital X-rays.

Your Health History

We review medications, diabetes control, smoking and family history, because all of these change both the diagnosis and the treatment plan.