You may be unaware of your gum disease. Most of the times, you may have no symptoms until it has reached advanced stages. In fact it may be too late when you have one. Hence it is very important to visit your dentist regularly who will examine your gums during routine check-up. Your dentist assesses the severity and extent of your gum disease by checking the following:
Medical history
Your dentist will first ask you about your past or present gum problems. He /she would also like to know if you have any medical conditions that might contribute to the problem, and if you are taking any medications. You will also be asked about your oral hygiene habits.
Bad breath
One of the first signs of gum disease, it is caused by a build-up of bacteria which give off noxious odours.
Red and swollen gums
Your dentist will then visually assess the colour and shape of your gums. Unhealthy gums are red and swollen and do not have pointed margins between teeth.
Gum recession
In advanced stages of gum disease, the gum starts receding and detaches from the tooth and will make your teeth appear longer. You may experience sensitivity in your teeth.
Bleeding gums and pockets
Your dentist may use an instrument (probe) to examine your mouth by inserting it underneath the gum line between your teeth and the gums. If your gums bleed while doing so, it indicates gum inflammation. If there is a pocket formation, the probe will slide very far below the gum line indicating that the gum has detached from the tooth. The larger and deeper the pocket, more severe is the disease.
Abscess
Your dentist will check if there is any pus present in the gum pockets by gently applying pressure on the gums with his/her fingers.
Tooth mobility
As the disease progresses your teeth become loose and may shift. Your dentist will look for changes in the way your teeth fit together upon biting.
Radiograph (X-ray)
The best way to check for any loss of teeth supporting the bone structure is the dental x-ray.Your dentist may take a number of X-rays to check the condition of your jaw bone. They may also help diagnose abscesses in the gums and periodontium.