Periodontal examination

Basic periodontal examination

Periodontal examination is a critical component of comprehensive oral health assessment. This examination is essential for diagnosing periodontal disease, a set of inflammatory conditions affecting the tissues surrounding the teeth. Periodontal examination helps in assessing the health of the gingiva (gums), depth of the periodontal pockets, level of attached gingiva, tooth mobility, and other signs of periodontal disease.

Components of Periodontal Examination

A thorough periodontal examination includes several key components:

Visual Examination

The visual examination involves inspecting the color, shape, size, and texture of the gingiva. Healthy gingiva is typically pink, firm, and has a stippled appearance similar to the skin of an orange.

Periodontal Probing

Periodontal probing is a fundamental part of the periodontal examination. A periodontal probe is used to measure the depth of the periodontal pockets around each tooth. Depths greater than 3mm are generally considered indicative of periodontal disease.

Bleeding on Probing

Bleeding on probing is noted when the periodontal probe induces bleeding. This is a sign of inflammation and is commonly associated with gingivitis or periodontitis.

Plaque and Calculus Detection

The presence of plaque and calculus (tartar) is assessed during the examination. Plaque is a biofilm of bacteria, and calculus is hardened plaque that has been mineralized. Both contribute to periodontal disease.

Tooth Mobility

Tooth mobility is assessed by applying gentle pressure to the teeth. Increased mobility can indicate loss of support due to periodontal disease.

Radiographic Examination

Radiographs (X-rays) are an integral part of the periodontal examination, providing information about the bone levels around the teeth, the presence of calculus, and other factors not visible during the clinical examination.

Importance of Periodontal Examination

Periodontal examination is crucial for early detection and management of periodontal diseases. It allows for the identification of risk factors and the implementation of preventive or therapeutic measures to maintain or restore periodontal health.

Frequency of Periodontal Examination

The frequency of periodontal examinations can vary based on an individual's oral health status and risk factors. Typically, it is recommended to have a periodontal examination as part of a regular dental check-up, which may occur every 6 to 12 months.

Conclusion

Periodontal examination is a vital procedure in dental practice for the early detection, diagnosis, and management of periodontal diseases. It involves a combination of visual inspection, periodontal probing, assessment of bleeding on probing, detection of plaque and calculus, evaluation of tooth mobility, and radiographic examination. Regular periodontal examinations are essential for maintaining optimal oral health.