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(409) 246-4777 Kountze Office

Diagnosis

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 (small dental instrument) is gently used to measure the sulcus (pocket or space) between the tooth and the gums.  The depth of a healthy sulcus measures three millimeters or less and does not bleed.  The periodontal probe helps indicate if pockets are deeper than three millimeters.  As periodontal disease progresses, the pockets usually get deeper.

Your dentist or hygienist will use pocket depths, amount of bleeding, inflammation, tooth mobility, etc., to make a diagnosis that will fall into a category below:

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the first stage of periodontal disease.  Plaque and its toxin by-products irritate the gums, making them tender, inflamed, and likely to bleed.

Periodontitis

Plaque hardens into calculus (tartar).  As calculus and plaque continue to build up, the gums begin to recede from the teeth.  Deeper pockets form between the gums and teeth and become filled with bacteria and pus.  The gums become very irritated, inflamed, and bleed easily.  Slight to moderate bone loss may be present.

Advanced Periodontitis

The teeth lose more support as the gums, bone, and periodontal ligament continue to be destroyed.  Unless treated, the affected teeth will become very loose and may be lost.  Generalized moderate to severe bone loss may be present.

Testimonials

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When I first came to All Needz I was hoping to get relief from a tooth ache that had plagued me for 6 months. What I received was genuine concern and gentle care from staff and my dentist. I honestly feel that my life has changed for the better. My mouth is healthy now and my outlook is brighter.

Everyone here works hard to make you feel at ease and comfortable. I won't ever go anywhere else.

- C. Carpenter

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The best dentist office we have ever been to by far. Dental Hygentists are awesome with my kids. Very personable and excellent patience with the kids. The dentists are great also. Everyone here really cares about the patients well being.

- M. Simpson

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After moving to the area in 2009 and looking for a dentist to continue my treatments as well as my children. I came to Dr. Worsley and I must say taht I have always been very pleased with the results, service, and the staff. I refer all my friends in the area to All Needz Dental. I will continue to my dental needs with Dr. Worsley.

- S. Gallender

Contact Us

We encourage you to contact us with any questions or comments you may have. Please call our office or use the quick contact form below.