Diagnosing Periodontal Disease

Periodontal Disease - Diagnosis

Dr. George Eifler or our dental hygienist can help you determine if you have Periodontal disease. This is called a periodontal examination. This exam is part of your usual and customary dental check-up.

AZ Valley Dental uses a small dental instrument, called a periodontal probe to measure the pockets or space between your teeth and the gums. The depths of these pockets or space should measure three millimeters or less and not bleed. This periodontal examination helps Dr. Eifler determine if your pockets are deeper than three millimeters. The pockets and spaces will get deeper as periodontal disease progresses.

To make a diagnosis, Dr. Eifler will use pocket depths, inflammation, amount of bleeding, and tooth mobility to make a complete diagnosis that will fall into one of the following categories:

Periodontitis

Your gums will begin to recede from your teeth as plaque hardens and turns into calculus (tartar). These deeper pockets become filled with pus and bacteria. You will notice your gums bleeding more easily, and becoming more irritated and inflamed. You may notice some bone loss as well.

Advanced Periodontitis

During this phase your teeth will lose more support as the bone, gums, and periodontal ligament continue to be destroyed. Without proper treatment, the affected teeth can become very loose and could be lost completely if action is not taken. You may also see moderate to severe bone loss.

Gingivitis

The first stage of periodontal disease is called Gingivitis. As explained earlier plaque and its toxin by-products will irritate your gums. This can make your gums inflamed, tender and more likely to bleed.

Contact Dr. George Eifler and AZ Valley Dental today: (602) 956- 2260.