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The dental practitioner typically performs a number of procedures to determine a diagnosis of periodontal disease. Medical History The dentist and hygienist will first take a medical history to reveal any past or present periodontal problems, any underlying diseases that might be contributing to the problem, and any medications the patient is taking. After noting the general state of oral hygiene, the dentist may ask about the quality of home dental care. Physical Examination Inspection of the Gum Area. The dentist and hygienist inspect the color and shape of gingival tissue on the cheek (buccal) side and the tongue (lingual) side of every tooth and compares these qualities to the healthy ideal. Redness, puffiness, and bleeding upon probing indicate inflammation. Periodontal Probing This is a procedure used to measure and determine the severity of periodontal disease: · The hygienist uses a mirror and a periodontal probe, a fine instrument calibrated in millimeters (mm), which is used to measure pocket depth. · The probe is held along the length of the tooth with the tip placed in the pocket. The tip of the probe will then touch the point where the connective tissue attaches to the tooth. · The hygienist will "walk" the probe to six specified points on each tooth, three on the buccal (cheek) and three on the lingual (tongue) sides. The hygienist measures the depth of the probe at each point. · Pocket depths greater than 3 mm indicate disease. These measurements help determine the condition of the connective tissue and amount of gingival overgrowth or recession. Testing Tooth Movement. Tooth mobility is determined by pushing each tooth between two instrument handles and observing any movement. Mobility is a strong indicator of bone support loss. X-rays. X-rays are taken to show any loss of bone structure supporting the teeth. Eighteen x-rays make up the full mouth series necessary for diagnosis and show calculus deposits below the gumline. The radiographs also show defect restorative margins. Genetic Testing. One of the most accurate ways to determine what is causing YOUR gum disease is a DNA TEST. This test will help identify the type and concentration of perio-pathogenic bacteria, and even determine a patient’s genetic predisposition for periodontal disease. This test is simple and easy, and better yet provides a better risk assesment with more predictable outcomes of treatment. |
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Allentown & Dublin Dental Centers, PC |
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Periodontal Treatment and Implant Dentistry |
610-797-2420 AND 215-249-0520 |
