Periodontal probing is diagnostic tool which enables dentists to diagnose periodontal (gum) disease in earlier stages of the disease process. While x-rays are also important, they will not always show the extent of deterioration and destruction of supporting bone until more advanced stages. Like other chronic inflammatory diseases, the key to successfully treating periodontal disease is early diagnosis. The diagram below shows varying stages of the disease process with a periodontal probe in place. As more supporting bone deteriorates, the deeper the pocket reading. Although sometimes, the gum-line may also recede as bone is lost, in which case the depth of the pocket alone may not be indicative of the extent of disease . So in order to determine the extent of bone loss, in addition to the probing depth readings of pockets, the amount of gum recession also needs to be measured and taken into account when making a diagnosis. Other factors such as family history and other risk factors also need to be considered. The bottom line and main takeaway message here should be, that when your dentist or hygienist wants to perform a comprehensive periodontal examination (CPE) which includes periodontal probing and charting, go for it! :) ______________________________________________
Posted on: Sat, 29 Nov 2014 01:04:25 +0000
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