Periodontal Assessment
A periodontal assessment is a detailed examination of the gums and the structures that support your teeth. It helps identify signs of gum disease, understand how advanced the condition may be and determine what treatment or ongoing care is needed.
Gum disease can sometimes progress with very few noticeable symptoms. A thorough assessment allows changes beneath the gumline to be identified early, before they lead to further damage or affect the stability of the teeth.
Why might I need a periodontal assessment?
- Bleeding when brushing or cleaning between the teeth
- Red, swollen or tender gums
- Persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste
- Gum recession or teeth appearing longer
- Loose teeth or changes in the way your teeth meet
- A previous history of gum disease
- Deep gum pockets identified during a routine examination
What happens during the assessment?
Your gums will be carefully examined using a small measuring instrument called a periodontal probe. This is gently placed around each tooth to measure the space between the tooth and the surrounding gum.
These measurements help identify areas where the gum has pulled away from the tooth or where deeper periodontal pockets have developed. The assessment may also record bleeding, gum recession, tooth mobility, plaque and calculus levels.
What are periodontal pockets?
Healthy gums fit closely around the teeth. When gum disease develops, inflammation can cause the space between the tooth and gum to deepen, creating what is known as a periodontal pocket.
Deeper pockets can trap plaque and bacteria below the gumline, where they are more difficult to remove through normal brushing. Measuring these areas helps determine the extent of the condition and where treatment should be focused.
Will I need X-rays?
Dental X-rays may be recommended when more information is needed about the bone supporting your teeth. They can help identify bone loss that may not be visible during a clinical examination.
Not every patient will require new X-rays. This will depend on your symptoms, previous records and the findings from your gum assessment.
Does the assessment hurt?
You may feel light pressure or brief sensitivity while the gums are being measured, particularly in areas that are inflamed. However, the assessment is generally straightforward and does not normally require anaesthetic.
Please mention any discomfort during the appointment so the examination can be carried out as gently and comfortably as possible.
What happens after the assessment?
Your findings will be explained clearly, including which areas are healthy and where signs of gum disease have been identified. You may also be shown your measurements so you can better understand what is happening around each tooth.
If treatment is needed, a personalised plan may include improvements to home cleaning, professional plaque and calculus removal, treatment below the gumline and regular periodontal maintenance appointments.
Can gum disease be treated?
Gum disease can often be controlled successfully, particularly when it is identified early and managed consistently. Treatment aims to reduce inflammation, control harmful bacteria and protect the tissues supporting your teeth.
Long-term success depends heavily on effective cleaning at home, regular professional care and reducing personal risk factors wherever possible.
A clearer picture of your gum health
A periodontal assessment provides more information than a standard dental check alone. It creates a detailed record of your gum health, allows changes to be monitored over time and helps build a treatment plan focused on keeping your natural teeth healthy and stable.