Dr. Mogell Dental Blog

Boca Raton Cosmetic Dentist

Periodontal Probing

Wednesday, April 15, 2015

I know, periodontal probing sounds like the punch line to a bad joke -- but it is a necessary and vital part of a thorough dental examination.

Periodontal probing measures the depth of pockets around the tooth to establish the health of the gum and connective tissue. Small numbers are good -- they mean a healthy mouth. When the numbers get higher it means that the gum tissue isn't as healthy as it should be.

Why do we bother with gum health? Simple -- the mouth is the entry to the body and the health of the mouth also affects other body systems. For example, oral bacteria from infected gums has been found throughout the body including in the heart and even in some tumors.

For most people the regular routine of brushing, FLOSSING, and regular dental hygiene visits will keep their gums healthy. Some people have a harder time maintaining good oral health because of underlying medical conditions, diabetes for example. Still others may be genetically predisposed to more gum issues.

Whatever the case, treatment for gum disease is so much easier today than in years past! Find out more by contacting us at 561-394-9000.

Labels: gum disease