Diagnosing Periodontal Disease
Dentist in Wilmington, NC
Periodontal disease is diagnosed through a series of tests by our dentist or hygienist. Our team will start by evaluating the depth of the pockets between your gums and teeth. Next, we’ll check for swelling, bleeding, loose teeth, and loss of bone. Based on these factors, our team will determine the stage of your periodontal disease and recommend the appropriate treatment plan.
Stages of Periodontal Disease
Gingivitis: the first stage of periodontal disease, characterized by inflamed, tender, bleeding gums, and plaque build-up.
Periodontitis: the second stage of periodontal disease, characterized by plaque hardening into calculus (tartar), gum recession, deepening gum pockets, and early stages of bone loss.
Advanced Periodontitis: the final stage of periodontal disease, characterized by destruction of gums, bone, and ligament tissues, loosening and loss of teeth, and more severe bone loss.