[22-11-2024] Portland , Oregon - Perio charting, a detailed assessment of your gum health, is crucial to routine dental check-ups. But how often should it be performed? The frequency of perio charting depends on various factors, including your oral health, gum disease risk, and periodontist's recommendations.


Understanding Perio Charting

Perio charting comprehensively evaluates your gums, teeth, and bone structure. During this process, your periodontist will measure the depth of the pockets around your teeth, known as periodontal pockets. These pockets are the spaces between your teeth and gums. Healthy gums typically have shallow pockets, while deeper pockets may indicate gum disease.


The Importance of Regular Perio Charting

Regular perio charting is essential for several reasons:

Early Detection of Gum Disease: Early detection is critical to effective gum disease treatment. Perio charting helps identify early signs of gum disease, such as gingivitis and periodontitis.

Monitoring Gum Health: By tracking changes in pocket depths over time, your periodontist can monitor the progression of gum disease and adjust your treatment plan accordingly.

Assessing the Effectiveness of Treatment: If you've undergone treatment for gum disease, perio charting can help evaluate its success and identify any areas that need further attention.

Identifying Risk Factors: Your periodontist can identify risk factors for gum disease, such as smoking, diabetes, and certain medications, and provide personalized advice to help you manage these risks.


How Often Should You Have Perio Charting?

The frequency of perio charting can vary depending on individual needs. However, here are some general guidelines:

For Individuals with Healthy Gums: If you have healthy gums and no risk factors for gum disease, your periodontist may recommend perio charting every six months.

For Individuals with Mild to Moderate Gum Disease: If you have mild to moderate gum disease, your periodontist may recommend more frequent perio charting, such as every three to four months.

For Individuals with Severe Gum Disease: If you have severe gum disease, your periodontist may recommend more frequent monitoring every one to two months.

Factors Affecting the Frequency of Perio Charting


Several factors can influence the frequency of perio charting:

Oral Hygiene: Good oral hygiene habits, including regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings, can help reduce the risk of gum disease and the need for frequent perio charting.

Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, can increase your risk of gum disease. In such cases, more frequent monitoring may be necessary.

Medication Side Effects: Some medications can cause dry mouth, increasing the risk of gum disease. Regular perio charting can help monitor your oral health and identify issues early on.

Lifestyle Factors: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can also increase the risk of gum disease. If you have these habits, your periodontist may recommend more frequent perio charting.


By scheduling regular perio charting appointments, you can take proactive steps to maintain healthy gums and a beautiful smile.


We are committed to providing comprehensive periodontal care at Progressive Periodontics in Portland, OR. Our experienced periodontists will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that includes regular perio charting to ensure optimal oral health.