Periodontic Services

Periodontal Disease Diagnosis in Bel Air, MD: Know Where You Stand Before It Gets Worse

Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults, and it causes no pain in its early stages. Most people who have it do not know. At Elevated Smiles Dentistry in Bel Air, MD, Dr. Joshua Englander performs a thorough periodontal evaluation at every comprehensive exam to identify gum disease at its earliest and most treatable stage, before significant bone loss occurs.

Healthier Gums

Healthier Gums

Stop disease in its tracks

How Is Gum Disease Diagnosed?

Periodontal diagnosis involves several measurements and observations. The primary tool is a periodontal probe, a thin calibrated instrument that Dr. Englander or our hygienist uses to measure the depth of the pocket between each tooth and the surrounding gum tissue. Healthy pockets measure one to three millimeters. Pockets of four millimeters or more indicate the beginning of gum disease. Pockets of six millimeters and deeper indicate advanced disease with bone loss beneath. Alongside probing, the exam includes assessing bleeding on probing, measuring gum recession, noting tooth mobility, and reviewing X-rays for bone level changes around each tooth.

What Are the Stages of Gum Disease?

Gum disease progresses in stages from gingivitis through periodontitis of increasing severity. Gingivitis is inflammation of the gum tissue without bone loss. It is the only reversible stage, and it responds well to professional cleaning and improved home care. Mild to moderate periodontitis involves pocket depths of four to six millimeters and measurable bone loss. Severe periodontitis involves pocket depths of seven millimeters or more, significant bone loss, and sometimes tooth mobility. The treatment approach and prognosis depend on which stage you are in when diagnosed, which is why early detection through regular exams matters enormously.

What Happens After a Periodontal Diagnosis?

The diagnosis informs the treatment plan. Patients with gingivitis are placed on a professional cleaning and improved home care protocol. Patients with early to moderate periodontitis typically move to scaling and root planing, a thorough deep cleaning that removes calculus from below the gumline and smooths root surfaces to allow gum tissue to reattach. More advanced cases may require surgical intervention. After initial treatment, all periodontal patients are placed on a more frequent maintenance schedule, typically every three to four months, to keep the disease controlled and monitor any progression.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gum Disease Diagnosis

What are the warning signs of gum disease I should watch for at home?

Red, swollen, or tender gums, bleeding when brushing or flossing, persistent bad breath, gums that appear to be pulling away from the teeth, teeth that feel loose or have shifted, or a change in your bite are all warning signs that warrant a dental evaluation.

Can gum disease be cured?

Gingivitis, the earliest stage, can be completely reversed. Once periodontitis has caused bone loss, that bone does not regenerate on its own. The goal of treatment is to stop the progression and stabilize the remaining bone and attachment, not to restore what has been lost.

Is gum disease linked to other health conditions?

Yes. Research has established associations between periodontal disease and systemic conditions including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory disease, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Treating gum disease is not just about saving teeth; it has broader health implications.

Does a periodontal exam hurt?

Probing is generally not painful for patients with healthy gums. Patients with active gum disease and inflamed tissue may feel sensitivity during probing. If you have significant discomfort during exams, let us know so we can accommodate you.

How often do I need a periodontal exam?

Periodontal charting is done at comprehensive exams, typically once a year or at new patient appointments. For patients currently being treated for gum disease or in periodontal maintenance, pocket depths are reassessed at each maintenance visit.

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    Dr. Joshua Englander, DDS

    Page written and reviewed by:

    Dr. Joshua Englander, DDS

    Doctor of Dental Surgery · Elevated Smiles Dentistry, Bel Air, MD · Last reviewed: July 2026