How Do I Know If I Have Periodontal Disease?

August 13, 2009 by admin
Filed under: Dental Health, Periodontal disease 

Symptoms are often not noticeable until the disease is advanced.  They include:

  • Bad breath that won’t go away
  • Red, tender, or swollen gums
  • Painful chewing
  • Loose teeth
  • Sensitive Teeth

Any of these symptoms may signal a serious problem which should be checked by a dentist.  At your dental visit:

  • The dentist will ask about your medical history to identify underlying conditions or risk factors (such as smoking) that may contribute to periodontal disease.
  • The dentist or hygienist will examine your gums and note any signs of inflammation.
  • The dentist or hygienist will use a tiny ruler called a ‘probe’ to check for periodontal pockets and to measure any pockets.  In a healthy mouth the depth of these pockets is usually between 1 and 3 millimeters.
  • The dentist or hygienist may take an x-ray to see if there is any bone loss.
  • The dentist may refer you to a periodontist, a specialist who treats gum disease.

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Comments

2 Comments on How Do I Know If I Have Periodontal Disease?

  1. Albert Fisher on Tue, 18th May 2010 1:00 am

    2. Brushing every day does more than just help keep your teeth looking pearly white. Good dental health is also the key to preventing gum, or periodontal care keeping your teeth and gums healthy takes a few basic steps. Good home dental care, regular dentist visits, a healthy diet, limiting stress and not smoking are the cornerstones of better dental health.

  2. DDS Milpitas on Mon, 5th Jul 2010 5:51 am

    3. Thanks. Periodontal disease can affect a person’s overall health, so it is important to find a treatment right away in order to prevent other complications from developing.

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