WHAT IS DENTAL CHARTING?
During your dental exam you will notice your dentist calling these numbers to his/her assistant.
WHAT DO THESE NUMBERS MEAN?
The first number identifies the specific tooth
1=Central incisor
2=Lateral incisor
3=Canine
4=first premolar
5=Second premolar
6=First molar
7=Second molar
8=Third molar or wisdom tooth
The second number is for
periodontal charting . This checks for periodontal disease , by rating your gum health from 1-6
-Each tooth has six areas that are measured, that is why there are so many numbers.
-Each number is actually a millimetre measurement
-one to three are generally normal and healthy
-four or more are larger than normal “pockets “ between you gums and teeth
-this can be a sign of gum disease
-inflammation of the gums
-your dentist is also watching for bleeding gums
WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT?
Early detection of gum disease is VITAL to maintaining good oral health and overall health!!