
The measurements of the gum tissue should be recorded at least once per year, and more often if problem areas are found, in an effort to identify periodontal disease early on. Gum recession is also another classic sign of gum disease. Gum disease can be painless, so it may go undetected without preventative dental care, but symptoms commonly include sensitive gums that bleed easily, especially when brushing or flossing. It causes inflammation of the gumline, and can lead to loss of the bone that surrounds the teeth. According to the Centers for Disease Control, this condition affects almost half of adults older than 30. Periodontal charting is an important step in the detection of gum disease. These problem areas are often referred to as periodontal pockets and are often challenging to keep clean at home. In severely diseased areas, sometimes probing depths can reach up to 12 millimeters. Areas with higher readings tend to be more sensitive to probing. Areas of concern measure 4 millimeters and deeper due to plaque and bacteria causing the tissue to be inflammed and pull away from the tooth. Healthy tissue measures 1 to 3 millimeters and fits snugly around the tooth. Along with the measurements, they also check for bleeding of the gum tissue and areas of gum recession.
#Dentist teeth numbers professional#
Your dental professional takes six measurements per tooth to ensure that all areas are accounted for. This probe has markings like a tape measure that shows them how deep it can reach into the space to check the health of your gums. A dentist or dental hygienist uses an instrument called a probe and gently inserts it into this space. Periodontal charting is a way of measuring the space between a tooth and the gum tissue next to it.
