What is a full periodontal exam?

 
Periodontal, Periodontist, Dentist, Gum Disease, receding gums.
 

A Full Periodontal Examination is an exam in which a dentist checks a patient for signs of Gum Disease. These examinations are thorough and are only performed by a dentist, specifically a Periodontist.

These exams are designed to prevent and detect Gum Disease. Gum Disease occurs when pockets grow deep between the gums and the tooth and fill with bacteria. This bacteria can cause gum inflammation, bone decay, tooth loss, and even jawbone issues.

Visiting with a dentist can clarify if you should receive the full examination. There are specific signs you can watch for, and while they could allude to milder conditions, only a dentist can confirm if you have Periodontitis.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Periodontitis include the following:

  • Mouth pain

  • Receding gums

  • Loose or sensitive teeth

If you experience any of these symptoms, even if they seem minor, checking with your dentist could make a difference in medicinal treatment or surgery.

The Exam

The Full Periodontal Examination contains many methods of the Periodontist closely checking the teeth, gums, and jaw:

  1. Using a small tool to check the pocket depth of any gum pockets

  2. Checking the health of the jawbone

  3. Viewing teeth from different angles to check for straightness

  4. Testing tooth mobility

  5. Taking X-rays

  6. Performing blood or saliva tests

  7. Scheduling another examination to note changes that occur

While there are many ways the dentist can check for Gum Disease, the methods are not usually painful and only cause mild discomfort.

Reach out to a dentist at Midland Dental to schedule a Periodontal Exam today.

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