Your Gums and Those Mysterious Numbers
When Dentist Says …
You've just had your teeth cleaned, and the dental hygienist is calling out numbers to the dentist: "2, 1, 3, 2..." You might be sitting there wondering, "What do those numbers even mean?"
Well, those numbers are actually a crucial part of your dental exam, and they tell your dentist and hygienist a lot about the health of your gums. Let's break down this secret code so you can understand what's happening at your next appointment.
Make it stand out
What is the dentist measuring?
Your gums and teeth are not just a solid, immovable unit. There's a tiny, V shaped space where your tooth meets your gum. This is called the "sulcus." In a healthy mouth, this space is very shallow.
During your check up, the hygienist uses a tiny ruler like tool called a "probe" to gently measure the depth of this space all around each tooth. The numbers they are calling out are the measurements in millimeters. These measurements are often called "pocket depths."
Here’s a simple guide to what each number means:
When Dentist says 0 or When Dentist says 1
When Dentist says "Zero" or "One" (0-1 mm): The Gold Standard!
What it means: This is exactly what we want to see! A measurement of 0 or 1 means you have exceptionally healthy gums. The sulcus is very shallow, indicating there is no swelling, bleeding, or gum disease present.
What you should do: Keep up the great work! Continue your excellent at home oral hygiene routine of brushing and flossing daily.
When Dentist says 2
When Dentist says "Two" (2 mm): Doing Great!
What it means: A measurement of 2 is still considered very healthy. It's a sign that your gums are in good shape and you're maintaining a good cleaning routine.
What you should do: Maintain your routine! Brushing twice a day and flossing daily is key to keeping those numbers low.
When Dentist says 3
When Dentist says "Three" (3 mm): Time to Pay Attention
What it means: This number is a heads up. 3 indicates that your gums are likely a little inflamed but isn't a major cause for alarm. This can be an early sign of gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease.
What you should do: This is your signal to step up your at home care. Be more diligent with your flossing and make sure you're brushing thoroughly. Your hygienist might also give you some personalized tips on how to clean those hard to reach areas. Often, with improved home care, these numbers can go back down to 2s and 1s.
When Dentist says 4 or 5
When Dentist says "Four" or more: The Warning Signs Are Louder
If your dentist or hygienist starts calling out numbers like "four," "five," or even higher, it's a sign of a more advanced stage of gum disease, known as periodontitis.
What it means: These numbers indicate a more serious problem. A 4 or 5 mm pocket depth means you likely have periodontitis, a more advanced stage of gum disease. At this point, the bacterial infection has started to destroy the gum tissue and the bone that supports your teeth. The deeper pockets create a perfect environment for bacteria to thrive, leading to chronic inflammation and continued bone loss.
What you should do: Don't panic! Your dental team will work with you to create a specific treatment plan. This may involve a more thorough cleaning, sometimes called a "deep cleaning" or "scaling and root planning,". This goes below the gum line to remove built-up plaque and tartar from the tooth roots, helping the gums reattach and the pockets to shrink. You may also be scheduled for more frequent follow up visits to monitor the condition and prevent further damage. Your dentist will also recommend more frequent visits to help manage the condition and prevent further progression.
When Dentist says 6 or More
What it means: These numbers are a red flag. A pocket depth of 6 mm or more signifies severe periodontitis. At this stage, a significant amount of bone and gum tissue has been lost, putting your teeth at risk of becoming loose or even falling out. The infection is extensive and requires immediate, aggressive treatment.
What you should do: Your dentist will likely refer you to a periodontist, a specialist in gum health. Treatment may involve more advanced procedures, such as gum surgery, to clean the deeper pockets and, in some cases, bone or tissue grafts to regenerate lost bone and gum tissue. This level of gum disease can affect your overall health and wellness, so addressing it promptly is crucial.
The Takeaway
Those numbers aren't just random, they are a vital report card on your gum health! Understanding them can help you feel more in control of your dental care. Next time you're in the chair and hear those numbers, you'll know exactly what's being measured. And remember, the goal is always to get as many "zeros," "ones," and "twos" as possible!
If you have any questions about your numbers or want to learn more about how to keep your gums healthy, don't hesitate to ask us at your next appointment. At Mandarin South Dentistry we're here to help you achieve a happy and healthy smile!
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified dental professional or healthcare provider for diagnosis, treatment, and to address any specific dental or medical concerns.
