In a periodontal examination, what does the detection of mobility indicate?

Detection of mobility during a periodontal examination typically indicates advanced periodontal disease. Mobility occurs when the supporting structures around the teeth, including the bone and periodontal ligaments, are compromised due to the progression of periodontal disease. In healthy periodontal tissues, teeth are firmly anchored, with no excessive movement observed.

As periodontal disease advances, it leads to the loss of attachment and bone that normally stabilizes the teeth in their sockets. This loss results in increased mobility because the teeth are no longer securely supported. Therefore, the presence of mobility serves as an important clinical sign that highlights the severity of periodontal disease and necessitates further investigation and treatment.

The other options do not accurately reflect the significance of mobility in the context of periodontal health. Healthy periodontal states should exhibit no mobility, initial gingivitis may present with inflammation but does not typically result in mobility, and mobility is not a standard result of normal aging but rather a consequence of pathological processes affecting periodontal health.