Diagnosis
Periodontal disease is typically diagnosed by your dentist or dental hygienist during a periodontal examination, which should be a regular part of your dental check-up routine.
During the examination, a periodontal probe is gently used to measure the sulcus, or pocket, between the tooth and the gums. A healthy sulcus typically measures three millimeters or less and does not bleed. Deeper pockets, indicated by the periodontal probe, can be a sign of periodontal disease progression.
Your dentist or hygienist will consider factors such as pocket depths, bleeding, inflammation, tooth mobility, and more to make a diagnosis falling into a specific category.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the initial phase of periodontal disease. The gums become irritated, tender, inflamed, and prone to bleeding due to plaque and its toxic by-products.
Periodontitis
When plaque hardens into calculus (tartar), it can lead to gum recession and the formation of deep pockets between the gums and teeth. These pockets can become filled with bacteria and pus, causing irritation, inflammation, and easy bleeding of the gums. In some cases, slight to moderate bone loss may occur.
Severe periodontal disease
If left untreated, the gums, bone, and periodontal ligament will continue to deteriorate, causing the teeth to lose more support. This can result in the affected teeth becoming extremely loose and potentially falling out. There may also be generalized moderate to severe bone loss in the affected area.
