In this exam the dentist gently inserts a measuring instrument between the gum collar and the bone. If there is little or no bone loss, the measurement will not exceed 3mm. When gum disease is present, the measurement will be 4mm or more, the higher the number, the worse the disease. In addition, it is important to note any bleeding where it occurs since this may indicate an inflammatory process related to the bone loss.

But gum disease does not need to happen to you. New oral hygiene techniques can eliminate the bacteria that causes the infection. And new dental treatment techniques can enable you to keep your teeth when the problem is diagnosed early. Research has shown that gum disease can be effectively controlled and even cured, with non-surgical, pain-free techniques.