Periodontal Disease Diagnosis in Skokie, IL
Gum disease is a silent condition — many patients don’t realize they have it until it has already progressed to an advanced stage. At CityView Family Dentistry, Dr. Patrick C. Hann performs thorough periodontal evaluations during routine exams to detect gum disease early, when it is most treatable.
Early diagnosis is one of the most important factors in successfully treating periodontal disease and preventing the serious consequences that come with leaving it untreated — including tooth loss and damage to the underlying jawbone.
Request an AppointmentHow Periodontal Disease Is Diagnosed
Diagnosing gum disease involves a combination of a clinical examination and dental X-rays. During your exam, Dr. Hann or our dental hygienist will use a small measuring instrument called a periodontal probe to gently measure the depth of the pockets between your teeth and gums. These measurements — called probing depths — indicate how much of the gum tissue has pulled away from the tooth surface and how much bone support has been lost.
Healthy gum tissue has pocket depths of 1 to 3 millimeters. As gum disease progresses, pocket depths increase. Readings of 4 millimeters or more indicate that periodontal disease may be present and that treatment is likely needed.
In addition to probing, Dr. Hann will evaluate gum color, texture, and swelling; check for bleeding upon probing; assess recession levels; measure tooth mobility; and review X-rays to assess bone levels around each tooth. Together, these findings give a comprehensive picture of your periodontal health.
Stages of Periodontal Disease
- Gingivitis: The earliest and only reversible stage of gum disease. Characterized by red, swollen, and easily bleeding gums. At this stage, the bone has not yet been affected, and the condition can be fully resolved with professional treatment and improved home care.
- Early Periodontitis: Bacterial infection has begun to affect the bone supporting the teeth. Pocket depths typically measure 4 to 5 millimeters. Scaling and root planing is usually the recommended treatment at this stage.
- Moderate Periodontitis: More significant bone loss has occurred. Pocket depths reach 5 to 7 millimeters. Treatment is more complex and may involve multiple sessions.
- Advanced Periodontitis: Severe bone loss, very deep pockets (7 millimeters or more), and tooth mobility are common. Tooth loss is a real risk without aggressive intervention. Surgical referral may be necessary.
After diagnosis, Dr. Hann will explain your findings clearly, answer your questions, and outline a personalized treatment plan. Depending on the stage of disease, this may include non-surgical deep cleaning and ongoing periodontal maintenance. Call (773) 631-5788 to schedule your evaluation today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Periodontal Diagnosis
How do I know if I have gum disease?
Common signs include bleeding gums during brushing or flossing, swollen or red gums, persistent bad breath, receding gums, loose teeth, or tooth sensitivity. However, gum disease can be present without obvious symptoms — which is why regular exams are essential.
What is periodontal probing?
Periodontal probing is a standard diagnostic procedure in which a small instrument measures the depth of the pockets between your teeth and gums. Readings above 3 millimeters suggest the presence of gum disease.
Does periodontal probing hurt?
For most patients, probing is comfortable. Some sensitivity may occur if gum disease is present, but the procedure is quick and typically well-tolerated.
What happens after I’m diagnosed with gum disease?
Dr. Hann will review your findings and develop a personalized treatment plan. Depending on the severity, this typically involves scaling and root planing followed by a schedule of periodontal maintenance visits.
Can gum disease come back after treatment?
Yes. Gum disease can recur if proper home care and regular maintenance visits are not maintained. Ongoing monitoring is essential for keeping the disease controlled.
Is gum disease linked to overall health?
Extensive research links periodontal disease to systemic conditions including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory disease, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Treating gum disease is an investment in your total health.
How do I schedule a periodontal evaluation at CityView Family Dentistry?
Call CityView Family Dentistry at (773) 631-5788 to schedule your evaluation with Dr. Hann. We’ll assess your gum health and develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs.