The periodontal assessment is a comprehensive clinical and radiological examination aimed at evaluating the health of the gums and the bone supporting the teeth. Recommended in cases of frequent pain and bleeding or before aesthetic treatments, it involves measuring the space between the tooth and the gum, and performing targeted radiographs.
In Paris, reference structures such as the Cabinet Dentaire de la Madeleine (Paris 8) carry out this high-precision examination. The average cost for a periodontal assessment in Paris ranges from €100 to €150 depending on the extent of the required examinations (probing, radiographs, bacterial tests), necessitating a personalized preliminary appointment.
The periodontal assessment is the reference diagnostic act for identifying the presence of gingivitis or periodontitis. According to reports from the World Health Organization (WHO), gum diseases affect a large part of the adult population. The Haute Autorité de Santé (HAS) also advocates for early screening to avoid the destruction of the bony tissues supporting the teeth.
A consultation for a complete assessment is strongly recommended if you observe one or more of the following signs:
Periodontitis is a bacterial infection that progressively destroys the alveolar bone. As it often progresses without physical pain, only a clinical assessment can detect the disease before the teeth become mobile. Making an accurate diagnosis allows for the implementation of a non-surgical treatment (scaling) to stop the infection in time. When non-surgical treatment is no longer sufficient, periodontal surgery may be considered.
A periodontal assessment is a meticulous evaluation procedure that takes place in several key steps:
Radiographs are essential for visualizing the quantity and height of the remaining bone around the roots of the teeth. This examination, often performed using a series of high-precision retro-alveolar images, complements the visual examination.
In some cases of aggressive periodontitis, a sample of subgingival plaque is taken. This bacterial test allows for precise identification of the types of bacteria present in order to adapt treatment or prescribe a targeted antibiotic alongside cleaning.
The practitioner begins by studying your medical history and lifestyle habits. Certain factors, such as smoking, stress, or uncontrolled diabetes, have a direct influence on the health of your gums.
This is the main clinical examination. Using an ultra-thin graduated probe, the dentist measures the depth of the space between the gum and the tooth at 6 different points around each tooth. Healthy gums present a probing depth of 3 mm or less. Beyond 4 mm, it is rather a periodontal pocket, indicating loss of bone attachment.
In Paris, specialized clinics, like the Cabinet Dentaire de la Madeleine (Paris 8), incorporate all these clinical, radiological, and biological steps within a complete protocol to ensure a reliable diagnosis.
In dental surgery, bone and gum constitute the biological support and the direct visual framework of the teeth. There is a strict rule: no purely aesthetic treatment can be undertaken on an unhealthy or unstable periodontium.
Before considering the placement of ceramic veneers (such as E-Max veneers) or starting orthodontic alignment in adults, a complete periodontal assessment is mandatory. If the examination reveals bacterial pockets or weakened bone, the infection must be treated as a priority. Healthy and stabilized gums are the only means to ensure the longevity, symmetry, and long-term aesthetic success of your future cosmetic treatments.
| Type of periodontal examination | Average indicative fee in Paris | Specific billing details |
|---|---|---|
| Clinical assessment by full periodontal probing | 100 € — 150 € | Mapping of pockets at 6 points |
| Radiographic retro-alveolar assessment (status) | 80 € — 120 € | High-definition images of supporting bone |
| Bacterial test by plaque sampling | 60 € — 120 € | Microbiological analysis in the laboratory |
| Global periodontal assessment (Probing + X-rays) | 120 € — 250 € | Complete diagnostic package frequently |
Scaling is a regular hygiene treatment that removes tartar visible above the gumline. The periodontal assessment is a comprehensive evaluation examination aimed at measuring the loss of bone attachment and detecting any bacterial pockets below the gumline. It is essential if your gums bleed or if you exhibit signs of receding gums.
No, probing is a gentle examination. The practitioner uses a rounded tip graduated probe and applies very slight pressure. If your gums are very inflamed or sensitive, the examination may cause slight discomfort or temporary bleeding, but it does not require anesthesia.
You should plan for between 45 minutes to 1 hour for the consultation. This time allows the practitioner to conduct the medical interview, measure the pockets in 6 points around each tooth, take the necessary radiographic images, and provide a personalized explanation of your periodontal situation.
Although Social Security does not reimburse this procedure, a large portion of complementary health insurances cover the periodontal assessment, often included in an annual package outside of nomenclature. The dental office will provide you with a detailed invoice to submit to your organization for reimbursement.
For a patient without gum disease, a quick visual screening during the annual check-up is sufficient. For patients treated for periodontitis, a reassessment is conducted 6 to 8 weeks after treatment, followed by regular follow-up assessments scheduled every 6 to 12 months as part of periodontal maintenance to ensure the stability of the bone.