Periodontal pockets: what are they and how are they treated?
The definition of periodontal pockets refers to the pockets that form when the depth of the gingival sulcus increases. The gingival sulcus is a narrow, shallow channel located at the sides of the tooth. Under normal conditions, the bone and gum tissue fit snugly around the teeth. However, in the presence of periodontal disease, the deep extension of inflammation leads to bone destruction and the formation of gingival pockets. These pockets become increasingly deep, providing more space for the growth of bacteria that accumulate and advance deeper.
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Main causes of periodontal pockets?
Plaque buildup is the primary cause of this phenomenon. If plaque is not removed regularly, it causes the destruction of the sulcular epithelium, which moves lower as a defense mechanism. Bacteria typically cause gingivitis, characterized by bleeding gums. When they nest in the dental pocket, they produce toxins that destroy osteoblasts—the cells responsible for bone reproduction. One symptom of this stage of the disease is tooth mobility. Other causes of dental pocket formation may include:
- smoking,
- stress,
- pregnancy,
- hormonal imbalances,
- pharmacological therapies,
- vitamin C and K deficiency.
Questions & Answers
How is periodontal pocket disease treated?
The first step is to visit a dental clinic for a correct diagnosis:
- patients suffering from periodontal disease undergo a specialist examination, consisting of a clinical and radiographic assessment. These are used to evaluate the condition of the tooth’s supporting tissues necessary for a diagnosis. “Periodontal probing” is performed by inserting a millimeter probe between the tooth and the gum margin;
- once the examination is complete, a causal therapy phase is scheduled for the patient, aimed at removing plaque and tartar above and below the gumline. Efforts will also be made to optimize the home oral hygiene routine;
- during a second evaluation visit, the clinical condition of the periodontal tissues is examined, and potential surgical therapy is considered. This is aimed at eliminating the gingival pocket and subgingival plaque, as well as reconstructing destroyed periodontal tissues.
Types of procedures for treating periodontal pockets?
There are two types of surgical procedures to reduce the depth of the gingival pocket:
- the first type of procedure involves repositioning the gum against the bone to restore physiological relationships. The doctor moves the gum tissue aside to remove bacteria and smooths the bone surfaces altered by the disease;
- the second type of procedure allows for the recovery of part of the damage by regenerating lost bone and gum tissue and eliminating the dental pocket. The doctor proceeds by moving the gum tissue aside to remove bacteria. Subsequently, they may apply membranes, bone grafts, or proteins that stimulate the tissues to increase their regenerative capacity.
How to prevent the problem of periodontal pockets?
The first symptoms of gingival pockets are bad breath, bleeding, and pain. By the time these types of discomfort are felt, the disease is generally already at an advanced stage. In fact, the initial presence of a periodontal pocket often does not present any specific symptoms. For this reason, it is very important to maintain the habit of regular check-ups with your dentist. If the dentist detects the presence of dental pockets while they are still beginning to form, they can opt for less invasive remedies.
Your first visit
Many people who visit Dental Experts Albania have questions about aesthetic issues, including stained and discolored teeth. During your first visit, you will receive a complete set of X-rays, a thorough examination, cleaning, and time to speak with your dentist (expect to spend about 90 minutes in our office).
We will review your examination, talk about how you would like to improve the appearance of your teeth, and discuss a treatment plan.
First of all: Prevention
We believe that the best care is prevention; preventing is undoubtedly better than curing. When prevention is no longer possible, we try to address issues at the earliest stage.
Punctual appointments
Every appointment starts on time, with as little waiting as possible.
Care with a smile
We know that no one looks forward to going to the dentist. So we do everything to make your experience at our office one of a kind. See for yourself!
