Medical Health Encyclopedia

These measurements enable the practitioner to determine the condition of the connective tissue and amount of gingival overgrowth or recession. PSR appears to be even more reliable than x-rays in diagnosing gum disease.

Testing Tooth Movement. Tooth mobility is determined by pushing each tooth between two instrument handles and observing any movement. Mobility is a strong indicator of bone support loss.

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X-rays. X-rays are taken to show any loss of bone structure supporting the teeth. Eighteen x-rays make up the full mouth series necessary for diagnosis.