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Periodontal Charting, Gum Disease, and Types of Dental Cleanings

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What Is Periodontal Charting?

Periodontal charting is a diagnostic process used to measure the health of the gums and supporting bone around the teeth. During this evaluation, small measurements are taken around each tooth to determine the depth of the gum pockets.

Healthy gums typically measure 1–3 millimeters. Deeper pockets may indicate inflammation, infection, or bone loss caused by gum disease.

Periodontal charting helps:

• Detect gum disease early

• Monitor changes in gum health over time

• Determine the appropriate type of dental cleaning

• Guide personalized treatment recommendations

These measurements are recorded and reviewed regularly to track improvement or progression.

Understanding Gum Disease

Gum disease is a bacterial infection that affects the gums and bone supporting the teeth. It often develops slowly and may not cause pain in the early stages, which is why routine exams and charting are so important.

Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease)

Gingivitis is the earliest and most reversible stage of gum disease. Symptoms may include:

• Red or swollen gums

• Bleeding when brushing or flossing

• Mild tenderness

At this stage, no permanent bone loss has occurred, and gum health can often be restored with proper home care and routine dental cleanings.

Periodontitis (Advanced Gum Disease)

If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress into periodontitis. This more advanced stage involves bone loss and deeper gum pockets. Symptoms may include:

• Persistent bad breath

• Gum recession

• Loose teeth

• Discomfort or sensitivity

Periodontitis cannot be cured, but it can be managed with ongoing professional care and maintenance.

Why Gum Disease Matters

Gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. It has also been linked to systemic health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Maintaining healthy gums supports both oral and overall health.

Types of Dental Cleanings

Prophylaxis (Routine Cleaning)

A prophylaxis cleaning is recommended for patients with healthy gums and shallow pocket depths (1–3 mm). This cleaning focuses on:

• Removing plaque and tartar above the gumline

• Polishing the teeth

• Preventive care to maintain healthy gums

This type of cleaning is typically performed every six months.

Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)

Scaling and root planing, commonly referred to as a deep cleaning, is recommended for patients with signs of gum disease, such as deeper pocket measurements and inflammation.

This treatment involves:

• Removing plaque and tartar below the gumline

• Smoothing the tooth roots to help gums heal and reattach

• Reducing infection and inflammation

Deep cleanings are often completed in sections and may require local anesthetic for comfort.

Periodontal Maintenance Cleanings

After a deep cleaning, periodontal maintenance cleanings are necessary to manage gum disease long term. These cleanings are typically recommended every 3–4 months and focus on:

• Controlling bacteria below the gumline

• Monitoring pocket depths

• Preventing disease progression

Periodontal maintenance is different from a routine cleaning and is essential for maintaining gum health after treatment.

How the Dental Team Determines the Right Cleaning

The recommended type of cleaning is based on:

• Periodontal charting measurements

• X-ray findings

• Presence of bleeding, inflammation, or bone loss

• Overall oral and medical health

The Importance of Ongoing Periodontal Care

Your gums are like the solid foundation to a house. Everything else in your mouth builds on top. Book your cleaning today!

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