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What does a periodontal chart record?

Periodontal charting records the condition of the tissues supporting the teeth in detail. It includes gum measurements, bleeding and other findings. Together with medical history and, when indicated, X-rays, it supports treatment planning.

For dental trainees & teams
SMILE meets DESIGN
Medical teaching illustration: More detail than a screening checkAI-generated
Simplified educational illustration · not a patient case
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More detail than a screening check

Pocket depths, bleeding and other features are recorded for individual teeth, producing a more detailed picture of their supporting tissues.

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Consider findings together

Tooth mobility, root branching areas, health conditions and necessary X-rays can also matter. One measurement alone is not enough.

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A basis for monitoring and planning

Recorded findings support diagnosis and later comparisons. Treatment and follow-up depend on the individual's situation.

At a glance

What is recorded?

Detailed periodontal findings, such as probing depths, bleeding and tooth mobility.

When is it useful?

When the supporting tissues need closer assessment for diagnosis, planning or follow-up.

How are the values used?

Together with history and necessary additional findings, not as an isolated self-diagnosis.

Knowledge in motion

Explained in 36 seconds.

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

Short film (German): What does a periodontal chart record?

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

Often confused

PSI or periodontal charting?

PSI gives an overview of further assessment needs. Periodontal charting documents the condition more fully for diagnosis and planning.

Quick answers
Why measure several sites?

The condition can differ around the same tooth. One site does not represent the whole tooth.

Are X-rays always included?

X-rays are used when professionally justified. Existing suitable images may be relevant to planning.

Why take measurements again later?

Comparable findings help assess changes in inflammation and support. They are interpreted as part of the overall picture.

At the practice

For your consultation

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

Which findings matter most for my treatment and future comparisons?

Planning considers the findings and individual circumstances.

Existing findings and next steps can be discussed together.

Discuss your findingsChoose an appointment on Doctolib
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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.

Probing depth
The measured distance from the gum margin to the probeable base of the pocket.
Bleeding on probing
Bleeding after gentle probing, also called BOP.
Furcation
The area where the roots of a multi-rooted tooth divide.

Know the difference

Pocket depth alone describes neither the complete findings nor the extent of all tissue loss.

Knowledge questionWhat is needed to interpret periodontal charting?

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

  1. Several clinical findings, medical history and indicated X-ray findings.
  2. Only the highest measured depth.
  3. Only the visible gum colour.
Show answer and explanation

Several clinical findings, medical history and indicated X-ray findings.

The overall condition matters. Individual values do not replace a full 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.