"Peri" means "Around". "Odontal" means tooth. So it is the examination of the structures surrounding your teeth. Meaning your gums and bone. A periodontal exam measures 6 separate spots on each tooth to see the condition of the gum and bone surrounding the tooth. These exams help us to determine the TYPE of cleaning a person needs. 75% of dentists don't check periodontal pockets. 75% of people have gum disease. You do the math! So our office has committed to ensuring we measure and diagnose properly, to best serve our patients.