The Secret Gum Test Hygienists Do Every Visit

What do the numbers during a gum exam at the dentist really mean? In this video, I explain periodontal charting, also called perio charting or probing measurements, and what those gum numbers tell us about your oral health. We’ll talk about healthy gum pocket numbers like 1, 2, and 3 millimeters, what a 4 mm pocket can mean, and why 5 mm pockets and deeper may be signs of gum disease, bone loss, or the need for a deep cleaning. I also explain the difference between normal gum measurements, periodontal pockets, gingivitis, periodontitis, and gum recession so you can better understand what your dental hygienist is checking during your routine dental exam and cleaning appointment. If you’ve ever wondered, “Are my gums OK?” or heard numbers being called out during your dental checkup, this video will help you understand what those dental numbers actually mean.