What does it involve?

We use a small periodontal probe gently to measure the pockets or spaces between your teeth and gums. The depth of a healthy pocket measures three millimeters or less and doesn’t bleed. As periodontal disease progresses, pockets usually get deeper.

Based on the depths of your pockets, the amount of bleeding, inflammation, as well as other indicators, we make a diagnosis that falls into one of these categories:

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the first stage of periodontal disease. Plaque and its toxin by-products irritate your gums, making them tender, inflamed, and likely to bleed.

Periodontitis

Plaque hardens into tartar. As plaque and tartar continue to build up, your gums begin to recede from your teeth. Deeper pockets form between your gums and teeth and become filled with bacteria and pus. Your gums become very irritated, inflamed, and bleed easily. Slight to moderate bone loss may be present.

Advanced Periodontitis

Your teeth lose more support as your gums, bone, and periodontal ligament continue to be destroyed. Unless treated, your affected teeth will become very loose and may be lost. Generalized moderate to severe bone loss may be present.