Periodontal Charting: What It Is & Why It's Important

Healthy gum tissue should fit snugly around each tooth. However, in gum disease, the gum tissue can start to pull away from the tooth, creating what we call periodontal pockets below the gum line. Periodontal charting is a way of checking for these pockets by measuring the space between a tooth and the gum tissue next to it. 

 A dentist or dental hygienist uses an instrument called a probe and gently inserts it into the space. This probe has markings like a tape measure that shows them how deep it can reach into the space.

Your dental hygienist or dentist may record the gum depth numbers in several ways. Sometimes they are typed directly into a computer program. Other times, an assistant may type the numbers in for whoever is taking measurements. Voice recognition technology can also be utilized, during which you will hear your dental professional calling the numbers out loud. If any areas of concern are discovered, your dental professional will notify you where they are as part of the evaluation process. You may even be given a copy of your periodontal chart to take home.

Your dental professional takes six measurements per tooth to ensure that all areas are accounted for. Along with the measurements, they also check for bleeding of the gum tissue and areas of gum recession.

Your periodontal measurements will tell your dentist or hygienist if you have gum disease and how advanced it is. Here’s what your numbers mean: 

• 0-3mm – Congrats! If there is no bleeding, you have healthy gum tissue with no sign of gum disease. 

• 1-3mm – If the pockets are shallow but your gums bleed, you’re showing signs of early gum disease (gingivitis). 

• 4-6mm – Deeper pockets suggest that periodontitis has developed and the gums are detaching from teeth. There may also be some bone loss at this point. 

• 7mm+ – This indicates advanced periodontitis with bone loss. Teeth are likely to be loose at this stage. 

Periodontal charting is an important step in the detection of gum disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control, this condition affects almost half of adults older than 30. It causes inflammation of the gumline, and can lead to loss of the bone that surrounds the teeth. Gum disease can be painless, so it may go undetected without preventative dental care, but symptoms commonly include: 

• Sore, inflamed, sensitive gums that bleed easily, especially when brushing or flossing.

• Gum recession, where the gums appear to shrink away from the teeth.

• Longer-looking teeth with visible roots.

• Loose or shifting teeth.

• Changes in bite, or how the teeth fit together.

Periodontal charting should be done at least once per year, and more often if problem areas are found, in an effort to identify periodontal disease early on. Many dental offices start perio charting once a patient has reached full dentition, or a complete set of adult teeth, according to Dimensions of Dental Hygiene. It can be done at a younger age if gum tissue is swollen or bleeding.

Oral care at home plays an important role in making sure that your periodontal charting is looking positive. Brushing and flossing properly at home is an essential first step, and starts with brushing two times a day for two minutes and flossing daily. Keep in mind that cleaning above the gum line is just as important as cleaning below the gum line. Gently brush your gums while you brush your teeth and swish with a mouthwash for healthier gums.

Scheduling dental cleanings on a regular basis is another essential part of keeping your teeth and gums healthy for life. Your dental professional may recommend advanced treatment such as scaling and root planing or suggest a more frequent exam schedule if they notice pocketing and bleeding gums in your mouth. Otherwise, keep on a six-month cleaning schedule for the healthiest smile and the best results.

This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.