The first step in advanced periodontal care is a proper medical assessment. At Southern Colorado Periodontics & Implants (SoCO Perio) in Colorado Springs, CO, we have advanced examination technology to evaluate periodontal diseases and disorders. If you’ve received periodontal care in the past, you may need a periodontal exam as part of your routine periodontal checkup. Or, if you’re a new patient, a periodontal exam will help us confirm your dentist’s findings and determine an optimal treatment plan for you.
A periodontal exam checks your gum health. The doctor will measure gum pocket depth and examine your gums. They may also take X-rays and examine the area for signs of bleeding or swelling. If they find periodontal disease, they can suggest treatments. Regular exams will help keep your gums healthy.
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What is a periodontal exam?
Due to the unique needs of each patient, each exam can vary slightly. However, the majority of exams will include these steps:
- The doctor will discuss your dental health history. They may ask what treatments you’ve had before and ask about symptoms you’ve noticed.
- Your doctor will examine your teeth, plaque level, bite, and bone structure. This basic examination provides a lot of insight into your gums’ health.
- The dentist will carefully look for receding gums, bleeding gums, and other signs of periodontal disease.
- Your doctor will use a thin probing tool to probe the gums at the base of the tooth gently. They will measure the depth of the space before your gum and tooth connect. Deeper pockets may indicate gingival problems.
- Your doctor will discuss your oral hygiene with you and recommend options like medicated mouthwash or flossing.
- If your condition is severe, the periodontist will recommend treatment methods such as pocket reduction or root scaling.
When do you need a periodontal exam?
You don’t need periodontal exams as often as regular dental checkups. However, it’s still a good idea to get them occasionally. These are some of the signs you might need an exam.
- It’s been over a year since your last exam. The American Academy of Periodontology recommends that healthy adults get an exam yearly.
- You’ve been diagnosed with mild periodontal disease, and it’s been more than six months since your last checkup.
- You’ve noticed bleeding gums, soreness, red gums, or other signs of gum problems.
- It’s been three months since you’re last exam, and you’ve been diagnosed with advanced periodontal disease.
Reference: perio.org
Benefits of a periodontal exam
Getting regular exams is very useful. It allows the dentist to identify any problems before they worsen. Mild gum disease is far easier to treat. Therefore, a fast diagnosis can save you a lot of pain, hassle, and money later on. It can help you avoid major problems, such as tooth loss.
In addition to treatment, an exam also helps with prevention. Your doctor can inform you about activities that may harm your gums. They can also give you tips on how to better care for your gums. This can help you avoid all the discomfort of gum disease later on.
Are there any risks?
A periodontal exam is almost entirely noninvasive. Therefore, it is very low risk. Patients with gum disease may experience bleeding or discomfort. However, this should feel similar to a standard dental exam.
The one risk that may occur is the transfer of bacteria. Doctors may probe both infected and healthy gum spots. This can spread bacteria around your mouth. Proper care can greatly reduce this risk. A dentist who sanitizes the probe after encountering any blood or pus can minimize risks.
Average costs for a periodontal exam
The cost of a periodontal exam will vary slightly depending on a few factors. First, X-rays can add approximately $100 to the cost. These are necessary if you haven’t had an X-ray in a while. They help show the doctor your overall tooth and bone structure.
Next, your exam price can vary depending on what else you are getting done. Some doctors may include a complementary exam alongside routine cleanings. You may also receive a brief, complimentary exam as part of your consultation before specific procedures.
Your insurance will also affect costs. Most dental insurance will cover an annual periodontal exam. You may need to pay a copay of around $20 to $50, or it might be free. However, your insurance might not cover additional exams each year. If you do not have insurance, expect to pay between $150 and $400.
Why see the periodontist?
A periodontist is the best type of dentist to perform a periodontal exam. A general dentist can do a basic gum exam. However, they typically do not have the additional training and experience of a periodontist. Periodontists undergo three additional years of training beyond the standard dental education. This training focuses entirely on gum care.
Therefore, a periodontist can provide a more thorough evaluation. In an exam, they can quickly spot any problems. Furthermore, they can provide treatments like gum grafting and pocket reduction. This lets you get all the care you need in one place. You don’t have to make many appointments and travel to various specialists.
When you need high-quality periodontal care, trust SoCO Perio. We are Colorado Springs’ trusted periodontal team, offering friendly service, dental expertise, and affordable prices. If you would like to schedule your next exam or learn more about our services, please contact us today.