Periodontal disease can be diagnosed by a dentist or dental hygienist through a periodontal examination, which is typically included in regular dental check-ups. During this examination, a periodontal probe is used to measure the depth of the sulcus (pocket) between the tooth and the gums. A healthy sulcus is typically three millimeters or less in depth and does not bleed. Deeper pockets indicate the presence of periodontal disease, and as the disease progresses, the pockets tend to become deeper.

Your dentist or hygienist will use pocket depths, amount of bleeding, inflammation, tooth mobility, etc., to make a diagnosis that will fall into a category below:

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the initial stage of periodontal disease characterized by the inflammation and bleeding of gums due to the irritation caused by plaque and its toxins. The gums become tender, inflamed, and prone to bleeding.

Periodontitis

As plaque accumulates and hardens into calculus (tartar), the gums start to detach from the teeth, resulting in the formation of deeper pockets. These pockets become a breeding ground for bacteria and pus, leading to increased irritation, inflammation, and easy bleeding of the gums. Additionally, slight to moderate bone loss may occur.

Advanced Periodontitis

The teeth lose more support as the gums, bone, and periodontal ligament continue to be destroyed.  Unless treated, the affected teeth will become very loose and may be lost.  Generalized moderate to severe bone loss may be present.