Everything You Need to Know About Periodontal Charting
Periodontal charting is the simple process of measuring the depth of your gum pockets. When there are no infections involved, it is completely pain-free. When having this procedure done, you will hear your dentist calling out numbers as they inspect your gums. These numbers denote the depth of the gum pockets, but what exactly does that mean and why is your dentist measuring their depth? Let’s start by explaining what a gum pocket is.
What is a Gum Pocket?
When examining your mouth, it may look like your teeth are attached to your gums, however, your teeth and gums actually have six small areas of space separating them, called “gum pockets”. When going in for periodontal charting, it’s important to know the numbers your dentist is calling out while performing the procedure denote the depth of the gum pockets themselves. This depth will range between 1-7, with a lower number being preferred as it indicates you have a short gum pocket depth, a good sign your gums are healthy.
What the Numbers Called Out by Your Dentist Mean
When having the periodontal charting procedure done, your dentist will call out numbers. The lower the number called out, the healthier your gums are, and here’s what they mean.
Between 3-5
If you haven’t been experiencing bleeding from your gums and your dentist calls out a number between 3-5, this is a sign that you may suffer from early or moderate gum disease. However, if you have been experiencing bleeding in this number range, the chance you are experiencing gum disease is very high.
Between 5-7
If your dentist calls a number between 5-7 while you have been experiencing bleeding, you have gum disease which is affecting your jaw bone.
7 and Above
While the scale only goes to 7, if your dentist calls out this number or higher, you are experiencing aggressive gum disease that will need immediate treatment and it is a likely possibility that surgery will be required.
Why Periodontal Charting is Important
Gum disease is a serious condition and if your dentist has recommended you have a periodontal charting procedure, you shouldn’t hesitate to get it done, as it is an easy way to diagnose gum disease effectively. When left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss and other severe health issues, such as heart disease or strokes, making it important to diagnose and treat gum disease as early as possible.
While periodontal charting is one of the easiest ways to diagnose gum disease, you may have other symptoms indicating you are suffering from this condition. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, you shouldn’t ignore them and should see a dentist as soon as possible, as you may have gum disease and some symptoms may require immediate treatment.
- Chronic bad breath or bleeding gums
- Chronic swollen or red gums
- Loose teeth
Gum disease is a very dangerous disease most people don’t take seriously. If you believe you may be suffering from gum disease, act immediately and schedule a dental appointment.
For more information regarding your dental health, please give Dr. Apsey of Smile Brightly Dental a call today! We are located in Warren, MI and we can be reached at 586-573-7700!