Photographs of your gums and teeth
This is a visual record of the existing condition of your gums and teeth. This shows you the interior of your mouth, you see what we see during the examination process.
Optical CAD scan of your gums and teeth
Digital dental impressions. This is a 3-dimensional record of your teeth and gums. You can see how individual teeth relates to adjacent teeth as well as opposing teeth. This information helps your periodontist formulates a treatment plan for you.
Gum measurements (this is called the periodontal chart)
We carefully and gently use a ruler (the periodontal probe) to measure the gap between the gums and the tooth. Probing depth measurements records the depth of space between the root surface and the gums. Probing depths of 1-3mm are considered healthy and are easily maintainable with toothbrushing. Probing depths of 4-6mm are evidence of gum disease (periodontitis) and probing depths in excess of 7mm indicate severe periodontitis. In putting these measurements to scale, consider that the average root length is about 10-12 mm long and is generally conical in shape.
We record the number of bleeding spots. A higher percentage of bleeding spots indicates a greater amount of periodontal inflammation. The therapeutic target is to have less than 10% of bleeding spots in the mouth.
We note the number of sites with pus. This indicates active breakdown of the gum tissues.
Small xrays (also called the peri-apical radiographs)
This is to assess the integrity of the crown (the part of the tooth above the gums), the root anatomy and the bone surrounding each tooth.These are also refer as intra-oral radiographs or peri-apical radiographs.
2-D xray scan of your teeth and jaws (panoramic/OPG radiograph)
This screens for abnormalities and and gives detailed assessment of the bone which is not visible with the small xrays.
3-D xray scan of your teeth and jaws (cone-beam computed tomograph/cbct)
This screens for abnormalities and and gives detailed assessment of the bone which is not visible with the small xrays.
Oral cancer screening check
White patches or persistent ulcers of the mouth warrant monitoring and investigation.
Assessing the structural condition of each tooth and the internal status of questionable teeth, noting the presence of significant cracks or wear
It doesn't make sense to treat unsound teeth which are not retainable. Many teeth experiencing wear and tear can often be retained but may require treatment with your dentist to protect the structure of the tooth.
Assess the relationship between the upper and lower teeth
This may influence the longevity of your dental restorations as well as giving us a hint of how much prosthetic maintenance you may require in the future. We do this directly inside the mouth. Often a more comprehensive assessment is done using study models and the CAD scan.
Examine the condition of each implant and its surrounding tissues
The diseases affecting dental implants and natural teeth share many similar features. If your dental implants are in trouble this will in turn affect the longevity of your implant prosthesis.
We ask questions relating to your general health
Certain medical conditions will contribute to the severity of your disease and may also affect your treatment outcome. Full disclosure of your general health will ensure that your care is conducted in a safe manner.
Evaluation of your tooth-brushing routines
Periodontal diseases and peri-implant diseases are caused by pathogenic oral bacteria. Proper homecare is important for a successful clinical outcome.
We ask what brushes you are currently using and we ask will ask you to demonstrate your brushing methods as if you are brushing your teeth at home as usual. It can be helpful to bring your toothbrushes and oral hygiene aids at your treatment and re-evaluation visits.