Shadowing Case 2: Finding gum disease from bone levels?

12/26/22

When we have our regular checkups at the dentist's, we assume that the process consists of roughly taking x-rays, treating possible cavities, and getting a dental prophylaxis (cleaning). However, that is not always the case. In today's blog, we will elaborate on a crucial step in the dental prophylaxis: measuring bone levels (aka bone probing).

What exactly is measuring bone levels and how is it done?

According to mayoclinic.org, the process of measuring bone levels is to evaluate the depth of the groove between the gums and teeth using a dental probe beside the teeth below the gum line.

Today's shadow case

In today's shadowing, I observed this process being proceeded on Mr. Park, a man in his 50s. Using a dental probe as a "ruler", the dentist measured the bone levels of each section of the mouth. The greater the number is, the higher risk of diseases the teeth is prone to. 2-3 is normal, 4 needs to be closely checked on, and 5+ must receive treatment. These numbers indicate possible bone loss or more importantly, periodontitis (type of gum disease).

This procedure is commonly utilized to identify whether the person is in risk of facing infection in the gums such as gingivitis or periodontitis. The borderline is that gingivitis is a treatable infection of the gums, and the bone is not damaged; Periodontitis is an irreversible infections of the gums and the bones, and the patient must face its damages permanently.

Measuring bone levels is important, because dentists need to make sure there is no pocket between gums and teeth where bacteria can enter. This will eventually cause teeth loss and gum disease.

What can cause the risk in bone levels?

Though age does play a factor, other causes including smoking, drinking, diabetes, and genetics can cause loss in bone levels which will lead to potentially permanent oral diseases.

Lack of oral hygiene can also play a factor. An accumulation of food particles and bacteria can create a hard covering over the teeth called plaque. This is because bacteria tend to stick on rough surfaces

Pieces of tartar built up between teeth of the patient

Plaque hardens into a rock-like consistency called tartar or calculus (no, it is not raw meat or math). They sit between teeth and darken in color as time pass. The time of hardening depends on the acidity of saliva, genetics, etc.

How can you prevent and maintain your teeth from these risks?

As previously stated, bacteria tend to stick to rough surfaces causing plaque. In order to prevent this, maintain oral hygiene such as brushing and flossing to creating a smooth surface of the teeth. In appointments, dentists utilize a gritty paste to polish, as well as to create a protective coat over the teeth.

Continue to have regular checkups to make sure your bone levels are between 2-3.

There is one special food that especially causes plaque form:

Popcorn!

The dentist explained that the most common food that causes plaque in her patients are popcorn, as its kernel is hard and gritty. If consuming such foods, please take extra care in leaving no particles on or between the teeth.

Oral health is FOR.ALL