Periodontal probing is a common procedure done during your routine checkup. This procedure is done to check for gum disease, to gauge your gum health, to evaluate the condition of your teeth and gums and to identify signs of perio disease. While unpleasant, and sometimes painful, probing and charting is an important part of your dental care check up.
What Periodontal Probing is Looking For
Your dentist is looking for a lot of different things when they are poking and probing around in your mouth. First of all they count your teeth to see if any are missing. Next they look to see if you have any dental work already in your mouth, like fillings, crowns, or veneers. Dentists are also looking for discoloration of the gums and tongue and abnormal gum/mouth/oral pockets. Finally, dentists are going to see if your mouth bleeds after the probing. This, accompanied by abnormal periodontal pockets, could be a sign of periondontistis, gingivitis or other gum diseases.
Importance of Periodontal Probing and Charting
The primary reason why dentists probe and chart the condition of your mouth is to evaluate the overall health of your mouth. However, early detection and treatment of oral health problems can also help to prevent or manage systemic diseases. For example, some researchers have identified a possible link between good oral health and a reduced risk for COPD. Also, if you are a diabetic, then good oral health is critical for reducing your body's insulin resistance. As you can see, periodontal probing and charting is worth the discomfort.
Author: Eisla Sebastian
© 2008 Associated Content