A periodontal exam is an important step in protecting your smile and keeping your gums and teeth healthy for years to come.
What Is Periodontics?
Periodontics is the specialty of dentistry that focuses on the foundation of your smile — the gums and bone that support your teeth. Periodontists have advanced training beyond dental school, which allows them to provide care for gum disease, bone loss, and complex implant cases. At Periodontal Associates, our role is to be your partner in keeping that foundation strong.
What Is a Periodontal Exam?
A periodontal examination is a careful look at your gum health. Unlike a general dental checkup, this exam measures the spaces around your teeth, checks for signs of gum disease, evaluates bone support, and reviews your overall oral health. It’s a thorough starting point that helps us create treatment plans designed just for you.
Why Your Dentist May Refer You for a Periodontal Exam
General dentists perform basic periodontal exams during routine checkups, but when gum disease becomes more advanced, they often refer patients to a periodontist for specialized care.
Periodontists have advanced training in diagnosing and treating gum issues that affect the supporting gum tissue and bone.
At Periodontal Associates, we see patients who have been referred because of concerns such as:
- Gum disease that has progressed beyond preventive care
- Signs of bone loss, implant loss or loose teeth
- The need for advanced periodontal procedures like scope assisted minimally invasive scaling and root planing, surgical deep cleaning, or laser periodontal therapy
- Medical conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease, that increase the risk of gum complications
A referral for a periodontal examination does not mean your smile cannot be saved, it simply means your dentist wants you to have the benefit of expert care and advanced treatment options.
Did You Know?
Nearly half of U.S. adults over age 30 have some form of gum disease, according to the CDC. The risk is even higher for smokers, who are twice as likely to develop gum disease compared to nonsmokers. A periodontal exam is the first step in protecting your smile and overall health.
Benefits of a Periodontal Exam
A periodontal exam gives you answers and a clear path forward. Instead of wondering how advanced gum disease may be, you leave knowing exactly what’s happening and how we can help. Our goal is always to protect your smile, your comfort, and your overall health.
Key benefits include:
- Clarity about your gum health: Understand how gum disease affects your gums, bone, and overall oral health.
- A personalized treatment plan: Receive a plan designed for your specific needs, which may include periodontal cleanings, scaling and root planing, surgical deep cleaning, or laser periodontal therapy.
- Protection for your smile: Reduce the risk of further bone loss or tooth loss with timely periodontal treatment.
- Stronger home care routines: Get guidance on oral hygiene habits that support lasting results.
- Better overall health: Treating gum disease supports your whole body by lowering risks connected to diabetes and heart disease.
- Peace of mind: Leave your exam knowing you’re cared for by specialists who focus only on periodontal procedures.
What to Expect During the Exam
A periodontal exam with a periodontist is more detailed than a routine dental checkup. Here’s what you can expect at your visit:
- Health review: We will discuss your medical and dental history, including conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or smoking that can affect gum health.
- Gum and tooth evaluation: We measure the spaces between your teeth and gums, check for gum recession, bleeding, and tooth mobility, and assess your bite.
- Digital imaging: X-rays, 3D scans, and intraoral photos and scans help us see bone levels and areas not visible during a visual exam.
- Personalized treatment discussion: We review our findings with you and explain treatment options such as scaling and root planing or laser periodontal therapy.
This process gives you a complete understanding of your oral health and a clear plan for restoring stability and comfort.
Why Patients Choose Periodontal Associates
For nearly 50 years, families in Centennial and Aurora,CO have trusted us with their periodontal care. Patients tell us they appreciate that we:
- Take the time for complete, personalized evaluations
- Use advanced technology like CBCT imaging and LANAP Laser Treatment
- Offer compassionate care for everything from preventive visits to complex treatment
- Create treatment plans that respect both oral health and overall well-being
Insurance and Financing
Periodontal Associates accepts most major dental insurance plans and will verify your benefits before your treatment to minimize surprises. Our team provides estimates in advance and helps you understand your coverage.
For any costs not covered by insurance, we offer financing options through CareCredit and Alpheon, making it easier to move forward with the treatment you need.
Learn MoreSchedule a Consultation
Protect your oral health with a thorough periodontal exam. To book an appointment at our Centennial location, call (303) 795-5700. To book an appointment at our Aurora location, call (303) 755-4500.
FAQs
What is involved in a periodontal exam?
A periodontal exam includes measuring the spaces between your teeth and gums, checking for signs of gum disease, reviewing bone support with x-rays or 3D imaging, and discussing your oral health history. This gives us a complete understanding of your gum health.
Does a periodontal exam hurt?
No, the exam is gentle and noninvasive. You may feel light pressure during measuring, but it should not be painful. Our team takes every step to ensure your comfort.
Does dental insurance cover periodontal exams?
Most dental insurance plans cover periodontal exams, especially if you’ve been referred by your general dentist. We’ll check your benefits beforehand so you know exactly what to expect.
Can you see a periodontist without a referral?
While many patients are referred by their general dentist, you can schedule directly with Periodontal Associates. If you’re concerned about gum disease or want a specialist’s opinion, we’re here to help.
Where can I find a periodontist near me?
Periodontal Associates has two convenient locations to serve patients across the Denver area. Our Aurora office is located at 2900 South Peoria Street, Building D, Aurora, CO 80014, and our Centennial office is at 2101 E. Arapahoe Rd., Suite 101, Centennial, CO 80122. Both locations provide the same high level of care in a welcoming environment.
