The AAP, or American Academy of Periodontology, recommends that adults receive annual comprehensive periodontal evaluations. A comprehensive periodontal evaluation, or CPE, can provide valuable information about your gum health so that periodontal disease can be caught at its earliest, most treatable stages. A CPE includes an evaluation of your teeth, any plaque deposits, your bite, your bone structure, your gums and any risk factors you have.
Our dentist will be looking for a number of factors that can indicate the presence of gum disease and may:
• Measure pocket depth
• Note any gum recession
• Identify areas of inflammation or bleeding
• Note the presence of plaque or calculus
• Note the presence of prosthetic devices, dental decay and any other tooth-related problems
• Measure bone density and quality
Your risk factors may include:
• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Presence of cardiovascular disease
• Age
• Family history
According to recent research, periodontal disease may affect about half of all adults in the United States. The earlier periodontal disease is identified, the better the prognosis for full recovery and reversal of the disease. The association between periodontal disease and other health conditions, including respiratory infections, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and dementia, continues to be underscored in studies, which makes it essential to treat the condition promptly and effectively.
If you are determined to be at risk or are diagnosed as having gum disease, our Los Angeles dental implants specialist will recommend a treatment regimen designed to preserve or restore your gum health. Contact us today to schedule your comprehensive periodontal evaluation with Dr. Afar or to learn more.
