- Dental Services
Periodontal Exams
A fundamental tenet of Living Wellness Dental is our belief in preventative biological care. As part of that approach we offer a variety of services and tips to avoid oral infection! Gum infection, also known as “gum” or “periodontal” disease, is a condition that can wreak havoc on the entire oral system, but also on one’s whole body health. Periodontal disease starts in the soft tissues of the gums and can spread, causing destruction to the teeth, their roots, and even the jawbone. Additionally, infections in the mouth can find their way into the bloodstream and become a nuisance to other body systems.
What is a Periodontal Exam?
Gum disease has both long (chronic) and short-term (acute) impacts on the mouth as well as the rest of the body. There are a couple of tools we use to understand what the current situation in your mouth is and what the extent of the challenge is. Of all the tools available to us, gum measurement is considered the single most important examination method in detecting periodontal disease. Periodontal measurements are most useful when used in combination with dental x-rays. Essentially the service involves measuring the place in the gums where popcorn kernels get stuck. The depth of that area tells us if there has been a chronic challenge in that area. If that area bleeds when it is touched, it tells us there is a problem there right now.
Some benefits of regular periodontal exams include:
- Early Detection: Identifying gum disease in its earliest stages allows for more effective and less invasive treatments.
- Prevention of Tooth Loss: By monitoring the health of your gums and supporting bone, we can help prevent the progression of periodontal disease, which is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults.
- Support for Overall Health: Research has linked periodontal disease to other health conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory issues. By maintaining gum health, you support your overall systemic health.
- Care Plans: Each patient's gum health is unique. Regular exams help us tailor a care plan specific to your needs, whether that involves routine cleanings, deeper scaling and root planing, or further treatment.
During the exam, we evaluate several key factors:
- Gum Inflammation: We check for redness, swelling, or bleeding, which are common signs of gum inflammation or infection.
- Pocket Depth Measurement: Using a small probe, we measure the depth of the spaces (pockets) between your teeth and gums. Deeper pockets can indicate gum disease and loss of attachment around the teeth.
- Bone Health: X-rays may be taken to assess the condition of the bone that supports your teeth, helping to identify any bone loss associated with periodontal disease.
- Plaque and Tartar: We examine the buildup of plaque and tartar on your teeth, as these contribute to gum disease if not properly removed.
Who Should Have Periodontal Exams?
Periodontal exams are important for everyone, but they are especially vital for individuals who:
- Have a family history of gum disease
- Smoke or use tobacco products
- Have diabetes or other conditions linked to gum health
- Are pregnant (as pregnancy hormones can affect gum health)
- Experience symptoms such as bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, or gum recession
What can I do to avoid Gum Disease?
As gum and oral tissue health are critically important to our whole body wellness, there are things we can do to promote healthy gums. A robust home-hygiene care routine including regular brushing and flossing, managing your diet, as well as consistently scheduling regular dental visits puts clients on a path towards maximizing gum health.
Why Choose Living Wellness Dental for Your Periodontal Exam?
Knowing where challenges lie, and identifying different aids that can clean those areas means less time at a dentist office, better and more comfortable teeth and more time doing the things we all love. Because of the close linkage between the body and the mouth, and because measuring the gums is so effective at detecting gum disease, it is a vital part of a standard hygiene appointment at Living Wellness Dental. We are committed to providing comprehensive, holistic care that supports your overall health. Our periodontal exams are designed to detect issues early and help you maintain healthy gums.
If you are concerned about maintaining the health of your gums, or addressing existing concerns, or if you want to learn more about biological approaches that support maximized gum health, our team is here to collaborate with you. Let us help you protect your smile and overall health with personalized, caring service. Contact us today.
Even if you are not currently experiencing symptoms, regular periodontal exams can help ensure that any issues are detected early and treated effectively
