Maintaining healthy gums is just as important as keeping your teeth in good shape. One essential tool dentists use to check gum health is periodontal charting. If you’ve ever heard your dentist call out numbers during a check-up and wondered what they meant, this blog will explain it all.
What is periodontal charting?
Periodontal charting is a method dentists use to measure the health of your gums and the bones that support your teeth. It helps detect signs of gum disease early—before it becomes more serious.
During the process, your dentist or hygienist uses a small probe to measure the depth between your teeth and gums. These measurements are recorded in a dental periodontal chart, which gives a detailed overview of your gum health.
Why is periodontal charting important?
Gum disease often starts silently, with no obvious symptoms. Periodontal charting allows dentists to:
- Monitor gum health over time
- Detect early signs of gingivitis or periodontitis
- Track areas of bone loss or gum recession
- Guide treatment decisions
- Keep detailed records for future comparison
What do the numbers mean?
During periodontal charting, your dentist or hygienist uses a special tool to measure the depth between your teeth and gums—also known as periodontal pockets. These measurements help determine how healthy your gums are and whether gum disease may be developing. The numbers usually range from 0 to 10, and here’s what they generally mean:
- 0–3 mm without bleeding: This is a sign of excellent oral health. The gums are healthy, and no signs of disease are present.
- 1–3 mm with bleeding: Bleeding at this stage suggests early gingivitis. It’s a warning to improve brushing and flossing habits and possibly increase how often you visit the dentist for cleanings.
- 3–5 mm without bleeding: Pockets this deep could indicate the beginning stages of gum problems. Since standard cleanings can’t reach below 3 mm, a deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) may be needed to remove plaque buildup under the gumline.
- 3–5 mm with bleeding: Bleeding at this depth often points to early periodontitis, the first stage of gum disease. This usually requires multiple deep cleanings and more frequent dental visits, along with improved home care.
- 5–7 mm with bleeding: These measurements show more serious gum and bone damage. Treatment over several appointments is typically needed, and the patient must follow a strict oral hygiene routine to prevent further deterioration.
- 7 mm or more with bleeding: This is a sign of advanced periodontal disease. Treatment is more complex and may involve surgery to correct bone loss. Ongoing periodontal maintenance will be essential to support healing and prevent tooth loss.
What does a dental periodontal chart include?
A dental periodontal chart typically includes:
- Pocket depth measurements around each tooth
- Notes on gum recession or inflammation
- Bleeding points (where gums bleed during probing)
- Tooth mobility (looseness)
- Plaque levels and buildup
- Furcation involvement (bone loss between roots of molars)
This chart serves as a complete record of your gum health and is updated regularly during dental visits.
How often should periodontal charting be done?
For most adults, periodontal charting is performed at least once a year. If you have a history of gum disease, your dentist may recommend more frequent charting to closely monitor any changes.
What happens if your chart shows signs of gum disease?
If your dental periodontal chart reveals deep pockets or other concerns, your dentist will recommend the appropriate treatment. This might include:
- Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing)
- Antibiotic therapy
- Improved oral hygiene routines
- Regular periodontal maintenance visits
- In advanced cases, referral to a periodontist
Last words
Periodontal charting is a key part of preventive dental care. It helps identify problems early and ensures your gums—and the bone supporting your teeth—stay healthy. If you’re due for a check-up or haven’t had your gums charted recently, talk to your dentist. A simple dental periodontal chart could be the first step in protecting your smile for years to come.