What Are Periodontal Pockets?
Measuring periodontal pockets — depths and implications.
Healthy gum tissue fits tightly and firmly against teeth. However, with age and/or declining oral health, this tissue can loosen and sag, forming periodontal pockets around the teeth. When this occurs, it can often become an ever-increasing problem, as it becomes easier and easier for food debris and bacteria to become trapped in the gums. In turn, this leads to even more gum disease, inflammation, and increased pocket depth.
Thankfully, our gum tissue is very resilient and responds well to treatment. It’s essential to receive an evaluation and begin a regimen as soon as possible to avoid the possibility of long-term damage. With increased care and monitoring of your condition at periodontal maintenance appointments, we can gradually reduce and treat your periodontal pockets.
Prevention and Treatment
You may notice that part of your regular check-up includes probing and measuring around each tooth. What we are doing is monitoring and measuring the depth of each pocket surrounding your teeth. Measurements are taken in millimeters and typically range from 1 to 5mm (with five being the most severe condition). With ongoing treatment and excellent at-home care, we often see fours and fives reduced to twos and threes.
Get an Appointment
It’s been a while since you’ve last visited the dentist; take the first step today by scheduling an exam, X-ray, and cleaning. We’ll soon have you back on the fast track toward excellent oral health. With successful treatment, you’ll notice less debris build-up, both during meals and while brushing and flossing later.
