← All explanationsPeriodontal Screening Index (PSI)

What is the brief gum screening check for?

PSI is an initial screening examination of the tissues supporting the teeth. A special probe identifies signs of inflammation and deeper pockets. An abnormal score calls for further assessment, not an automatic diagnosis.

For dental trainees & teams

01 / 03

An initial overview

For PSI, the teeth are grouped into six sections. A special probe helps identify findings around the gums.

02 / 03

A code summarises the findings

Bleeding, deposits and probing depths contribute to the assessment. A summary code is recorded for each section.

03 / 03

An abnormal result needs closer assessment

PSI can identify a need for further investigation. Detailed periodontal findings are then needed for diagnosis and planning.

Watch the short film Download infographic (German)

At a glance

What is assessed?

Initial signs of inflammation and deeper pockets around the tooth-supporting tissues.

Who is the check for?

It helps dentists identify early signs of periodontal problems.

What follows an abnormal result?

A more detailed assessment may be needed; a screening code alone is not a complete diagnosis.

Knowledge in motion

Explained in 36 seconds.

Three steps. Straight to the point.
Explanations are also shown on screen.

Short film (German): What is the brief gum screening check for?

Open the short film directly: Landscape film (MP4, German) · Portrait film (MP4, German)

Silent film in German · English explanations in the three views above

Often confused

Screening or diagnosis?

Screening looks for indications. A diagnosis comes from a more detailed examination and interpretation.

Quick answers

Is PSI a complete periodontal chart?

No. It is a screening check. A periodontal chart records the condition in greater detail.

Does a higher code mean tooth loss?

No. The code does not predict an individual's future. It indicates that the findings need closer assessment.

Can I measure PSI myself?

No. It requires a suitable probe and professional technique. Self-measurement can cause injury or misleading results.

At the practice

For your consultation

A question to discuss with Dr. med. dent. Niusha Barahmand Pour:

Does the screening show anything that needs a closer examination?

Preserving teeth and healthy structures are part of the practice philosophy.

A check-up can clarify whether the supporting tissues need closer examination.

Arrange a check-upChoose an appointment on Doctolib

Meet Dr. med. dent. Niusha Barahmand Pour

Learning for dental trainees & teamsUnderstand clinical terms and build your knowledge

Build on the simple explanation with clinical terms, key distinctions and a knowledge question.

Screening: An initial examination intended to identify a need for further assessment.
Sextant: One of six sections of the dentition used in PSI.
PSI probe: A special measuring probe with a ball tip and a coloured band.

Know the difference

A PSI code is neither a complete periodontal record nor an individual progression score.

Knowledge questionWhat is an abnormal PSI result used for?

This question supports learning. It does not assess personal symptoms.

To provide a final classification of every pocket.
To indicate a need for a more detailed periodontal examination.
To prove that a tooth needs removal.

Show answer and explanation

To indicate a need for a more detailed periodontal examination.

Screening identifies indications. Diagnosis requires further assessment.

Sources for further learning

Sources and context

Editorial research: 23 October 2026. This explanation covers general principles and does not replace a personal examination. Suitable treatment is discussed following individual assessment.