Periodontal disease is diagnosed by your dentist or dental hygienist during a periodontal examination.  This type of exam should always be part of your regular dental check-up.

A periodontal probe is gently used to measure the sulcus or space between the tooth and the gum.  The depth of this space gives information about the health of the gums.  It should be about 3mm without bleeding after this measurement is taken.  If your gums bleed when you brush, there is a problem which needs addressed.  Remember that periodontal disease is usually painless.  Don’t wait until pain develops because then it is sometimes too late to have treatment. 

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