What to Expect in a Periodontal Examination

Maintaining healthy gums is just as important as keeping your teeth in good condition. Gum disease can lead to serious dental issues, including tooth loss if left untreated. That’s why regular periodontal examinations are crucial for early detection and treatment of gum-related problems. At Washington Periodontics in Burke, Dr. Christine Karapetian offers comprehensive periodontal examinations to help patients maintain optimal oral health. You might wonder what to expect if you’ve never had a periodontal examination in Burke before. Here’s a detailed look at the process.

Understanding the Importance of a Periodontal Examination in Burke

A periodontal examination is a specialized dental assessment focused on the health of your gums and the structures that support your teeth. Unlike a routine dental check-up, which primarily focuses on the teeth, a periodontal examination looks deeper into the gums, bone, and periodontal ligaments to detect any signs of disease or abnormalities.

Periodontal disease, often called gum disease, is a chronic inflammatory condition caused by bacterial plaque. It ranges from mild inflammation (gingivitis) to more severe forms that can result in bone and tooth loss (periodontitis). Early detection through a periodontal examination is key to preventing and managing these conditions.

Initial Consultation and Medical History

The periodontal examination process begins with an initial consultation at Washington Periodontics. During this visit, our periodontist, Dr. Christine Karapetian, will discuss your medical and dental history to identify any risk factors affecting your gum health. Certain conditions, such as diabetes, smoking, and a family history of gum disease, can increase the likelihood of developing periodontal issues.

Understanding your overall health and any symptoms you might be experiencing, such as bleeding gums, bad breath, or tooth sensitivity, allows Dr. Karapetian to tailor the examination to your needs.

Visual Examination of the Gums

The first step in the periodontal examination is visualizing your gums. Dr. Karapetian will check for signs of inflammation, swelling, redness, and bleeding. Healthy gums should be firm and pink and not bleed when you brush or floss. Any abnormalities in color, texture, or shape may indicate the presence of gum disease.

She will also examine the gum line for recession, which occurs when the gums pull away from the teeth, exposing the tooth roots. Gum recession can increase sensitivity and the risk of cavities on the exposed roots.

Periodontal Probing and Pocket Depth Measurement

One of the most critical parts of the periodontal examination is measuring the depth of the pockets around your teeth using a periodontal probe. The probe is a small, ruler-like instrument gently inserted between the teeth and gums to measure the space (pocket) between the gum tissue and the tooth.

• Healthy Gums: In healthy gums, the pocket depth typically measures between 1 to 3 millimeters.
• Gingivitis: If the depth measures between 4 to 5 millimeters, it may indicate gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease.
• Periodontitis: Pocket depths greater than 5 millimeters are usually a sign of periodontitis, a more advanced stage of gum disease where the supporting bone may be compromised.

This measurement is crucial for diagnosing the severity of gum disease and determining the appropriate treatment plan. Dr. Karapetian will record these measurements in your dental chart for ongoing monitoring.

Assessment of Gum Health and Bone Structure

After measuring pocket depths, Dr. Karapetian will assess the overall health of your gum tissue. She will check for any signs of infection, such as pus around the teeth and gums, which indicates an advanced periodontal infection.

An essential part of the examination involves assessing the bone structure supporting your teeth. Gum disease can cause bone loss, which weakens the foundation of your teeth. Dr. Karapetian may recommend dental X-rays to get a clear view of the bone levels around your teeth. X-rays can reveal any bone loss that isn’t visible during the visual examination, helping to identify areas where the disease has progressed.

Bite Analysis

Dr. Karapetian may also conduct a bite analysis during the periodontal examination to ensure your teeth fit together properly. A misaligned bite, known as malocclusion, can contribute to uneven pressure on the teeth and gums, exacerbating periodontal issues. If your bite is off, it may be corrected to reduce the strain on your teeth and gums, improving your overall periodontal health.

Discussion of Findings and Treatment Recommendations

Once the examination is complete, Dr. Karapetian will discuss her findings with you in detail. She will explain the condition of your gums, any signs of periodontal disease, and the overall health of your supporting bone structure. She will recommend a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs if any issues are detected.

• Non-Surgical Treatments: For early-stage gum disease (gingivitis), we may recommend non-surgical treatments such as scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) to remove plaque and tartar buildup from below the gum line.
• Surgical Treatments: In cases of advanced gum disease (periodontitis), surgical interventions such as flap surgery, bone grafts, or tissue regeneration may be necessary to restore gum and bone health.
• Maintenance and Follow-Up: Dr. Karapetian will also guide you on maintaining your gum health at home, including proper brushing and flossing techniques, and may recommend more frequent periodontal maintenance visits to monitor your condition.

Periodontal Examination in Burke, VA

A periodontal examination is vital to maintaining your oral health, especially if you are at risk for gum disease. At Washington Periodontics in Burke, Dr. Christine Karapetian and her team provide thorough and compassionate care to ensure your gums stay healthy. By understanding what to expect during a periodontal examination, you can take proactive steps toward preserving your smile and preventing the progression of gum disease.

If you’re due for a periodontal examination in Burke or have concerns about your gum health, schedule an appointment with Washington Periodontics today. Dr. Karapetian will guide you through the process with expertise and care, ensuring you receive the best treatment for your periodontal needs.
If you’re ready to take the next step towards a healthier, more confident smile, book a consultation with Washington Periodontics today.