Periodontal Evaluation, 410-696-4624, Dr. Trepp, Orthodontist

Periodontal Evaluation

Your dentist will check for periodontal or gum disease using instruments and X-rays. An instrument called a periodontal probe is used to gently measure the depth of the sulcus (the shallow v-shaped crevice between your teeth and gums). A healthy sulcus depth is usually three millimeters or less. Healthy gum tissue does not bleed, so you and your dentist should see no bleeding during your evaluation.

Gum or periodontal disease causes the sulcus to deepen into a pocket. A periodontal probe can determine whether you have developed any pockets and the depth of those pockets. Generally, the more severe the disease, the deeper the pocket.

Image of a periodontal probe in use

Dental x-rays or radiographs also may be tken to evaluate the amount of bone supporting the teeth and to detect other problems not visible with the naked eye.

You may schedule an orthodontic appointment with Dr. William Trepp in his Pasadena, MD office by calling 410.696.4624 or in his Clinton, MD office by calling 301.868.6200. Written inquiries should be mailed to: 3020 Mountain RD, Pasadena, MD 21122, USA or 8918 Woodyard RD, Clinton, MD 20735, USA