Periodontal disease is diagnosed by your dentist or dental hygienist during a periodontal examination.  This type of exam should always be part of your regular dental check-up.

A periodontal probe (small dental instrument) is gently used to measure the sulcus (pocket or space) between the tooth and the gums.  The depth of a healthy sulcus measures three millimeters or less and does not bleed.  The periodontal probe helps indicate if pockets are deeper than three millimeters.  As periodontal disease progresses, the pockets usually get deeper.

What is a Comprehensive Periodontal Evaluation?

A Comprehensive Periodontal Evaluation, or CPE, is a way to assess your periodontal health by examining:

Your teeth
Your plaque
Your gums
Your bite
Your bone structure
Your risk factors