A timely perio diagnosis can protect your smile and your overall health. If you have red, sore, or bleeding gums, a formal perio diagnosis can find gum disease early and stop tooth loss and other health risks. A perio diagnosis in Berkeley, CA helps pinpoint how advanced the problem is and guides the right treatment before it gets worse.
5 Signs You Need a Perio Diagnosis in Berkeley, CA
1) Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
Bleeding with routine brushing or flossing is not normal. It often means inflammation (gingivitis) or early periodontitis. If bleeding is new or persistent, seek a perio diagnosis in Berkeley, CA within weeks, not months.
2) Gums pulling away or teeth looking longer
Receding gums make teeth look longer and expose sensitive root surfaces. This can be a sign of tissue loss from gum disease. A prompt perio diagnosis will measure recession and determine whether non-surgical care or grafting is needed.
3) Teeth feel loose or are shifting
Loose or moving teeth suggest bone loss around the roots. This is a more urgent sign of periodontitis. A formal perio diagnosis documents bone loss and helps plan treatments that can stabilize teeth or recommend timely tooth replacement.
4) Persistent bad breath or a bad taste
Chronic halitosis or a sour taste can signal active infection in the gums. While mouthwash masks symptoms, a perio diagnosis checks for bacteria and pockets that must be treated to stop ongoing disease.
5) Pain, swelling, or pus around gums
Pain, swelling, or drainage (pus) means an active infection and needs quick attention. These are urgent signs; a perio diagnosis helps locate abscesses and guides immediate treatment to control infection.
What a Perio Diagnosis Involves
A complete perio diagnosis includes a visual exam, periodontal probing to measure pocket depths, and digital X-rays or 3D imaging to check bone levels. Optional tests like Oral DNA testing can identify specific bacteria. Together these tests confirm how far disease has progressed and shape a personalized treatment plan.
Who Should Ask for a Perio Diagnosis
Ask for a perio diagnosis if you smoke, have diabetes, a family history of gum disease, dental implants, pregnancy, or frequent dental infections. These factors raise your risk and mean earlier or more frequent checks are wise.
How Early Perio Diagnosis Changes Treatment Options
Early detection often means less invasive care. When caught early you may need deep cleanings, laser therapy, or improved maintenance rather than surgery. Early perio diagnosis in Berkeley, CA can preserve bone and gum tissue and lower long-term costs and recovery time.
Advanced Treatments That Follow a Perio Diagnosis
After a thorough perio diagnosis, advanced options may be recommended. Dr. Keith Chertok, DDS and the Berkeley practice offer LANAP® laser therapy, the Pinhole Surgical Technique® for recession, guided tissue regeneration, dental implants, and sedation when needed. These choices are guided by diagnostic findings and tailored to your health goals.
Next Steps: Getting a Perio Diagnosis Near Berkeley, CA
Bring recent X-rays, a list of medications, and any dental records. Call the office to schedule a diagnostic visit and ask about insurance and financing options. Expect a focused exam, probing, and imaging during your first visit. If you notice any signs above, book a perio diagnosis in Berkeley, CA soon to protect your smile and health.
