Periodontal Evaluations in South Jordan, UT

The core of a periodontal evaluation is measuring the depth of the space between your gums and teeth, called the sulcus or pocket. Healthy pockets are 1 to 3 millimeters. Pockets of 4 millimeters or more indicate inflammation or the beginning of periodontal disease. Your hygienist takes these measurements at six points around each tooth using a small calibrated probe.

Alongside pocket depths, we note gum recession, bleeding points, plaque levels, and any areas of mobility (teeth that move slightly). Together, these data points give us a clear picture of your periodontal health and any changes over time.

The earliest sign of gum disease is inflammation: red, swollen gums that bleed when brushed or flossed. This is gingivitis, and it's reversible with improved home care and professional cleanings. If we catch it at this stage, we can usually resolve it without more involved treatment.

More advanced signs include deepening pockets, bone loss visible on X-rays, and gum recession. These indicate periodontitis, which is treatable but not fully reversible; the goal shifts to stabilization and prevention of further loss.

Most adults have a periodontal evaluation at every six-month recall. Patients with a history of gum disease or additional risk factors (diabetes, smoking, certain medications) benefit from more frequent evaluations, typically every 3 or 4 months, as part of their periodontal maintenance schedule.

If we find early gingivitis, we'll focus on improved home care coaching and may recommend a slightly more frequent cleaning schedule for a while. Most cases resolve within a few months.

If we find periodontitis, we'll discuss scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) as the first step, followed by a more frequent periodontal maintenance schedule. In more advanced cases, referral to a periodontal specialist may be the right path.