Periodontal pockets, what is it and how is it treated?
The definition of periodontal pockets refers to pockets that form when the depth of the gingival sulcus increases. The gingival sulcus is a narrow, shallow channel that lies on either side of the tooth. Under normal conditions, therefore, the bone and gum tissue fit tightly around the teeth. In the presence of periodontal disease, however, the extension of inflammation in depth results in bone destruction and the formation of gingival pockets. The latter become deeper and deeper, making more space available for the growth of bacteria to accumulate and advance in depth.
Ask us for a free quote.
We will get back to you in 24h
Main causes of periodontal pockets?
Plaque deposition is the main cause of this phenomenon. If plaque is not removed regularly it causes destruction of the sulcareous epithelium, which moves lower down to defend itself. The bacteria usually cause gingivitis, the symptoms of which are bleeding gums. When they lurk in the dental pocket, they produce toxins that destroy osteoblasts, cells responsible for bone reproduction. One of the symptoms of this stage of the disease is tooth mobility. Other causes of tooth pocket formation can be:
- smoking,
- stress,
- pregnancy,
- hormonal imbalances,
- drug therapies,
- Vitamin C and K deficiency.
Questions & Answers
How is periodontal pocket disease treated?
The first step is to visit a dental office for proper diagnosis:
- the patient with periodontal disease undergoes a specialist examination, which consists of a clinical and radiographic examination. These are used to assess the condition of the supporting tissues of the tooth necessary to make a diagnosis. “Periodontal probing” is performed by inserting a millimeter probe between the tooth and the gingival margin;
- having completed the examination, the so-called causal therapy phase is scheduled for the patient, prepositioned for the removal of plaque and tartar above and below the gums. An attempt will also be made to optimize the method to be applied for home oral hygiene;
- through a second evaluation visit, the clinical condition of the periodontal tissues and possible surgical therapy are examined. This is aimed at eliminating the gingival pocket and subgingival plaque and reconstructing the destroyed periodontal tissues.
Types of interventions for periodontal pocket care?
There are two types of surgery to reduce the depth of the gingival pocket:
- the first type of surgery is to bring the gingiva back alongside the bone to restore physiological relationships. The doctor discards gingival tissues to remove bacteria and smooths out bone surfaces altered by disease;
- The second type of surgery allows some of the damage to be recovered by regenerating the lost bone and gum tissue and removing the dental pocket. The doctor proceeds by discarding gum tissue to remove bacteria. He may then use the application of membranes, bone grafts or proteins that stimulate the tissues to increase their ability to regenerate.
How to prevent the problem of periodontal pockets?
The first symptoms of the presence of gum pockets are halitosis, bleeding, and pain. By the time one begins to experience these types of discomfort, the disease is usually already at an advanced stage. Very often the initial presence of a periodontal pocket, in fact, does not give any particular symptoms. For this reason, it is very important to maintain the good habit of frequent periodic checkups at your trusted dentist. In the event that the dentist finds the presence of dental pockets when they are still beginning to form, he or she may opt for less invasive remedies.
Your first visit
Many people who visit Dental Experts Albania have questions about cosmetic problems, including stained and discolored teeth. During your first visit, you will receive a full set of x-rays, a thorough examination, cleaning, and time to talk with your dentist (plan to spend about 90 minutes in our office).
We will review your exam, talk about how you would like to improve the appearance of your teeth, and discuss a treatment plan.
First of all: Prevent
We are of the view that the best cure is prevention; prevention is undoubtedly better than cure. When prevention is no longer possible we try to nip it in the bud.
Timely appointments
Every appointment starts on time, with as little waiting as possible.
Cure with a smile
We know that no one looks forward to going to the dentist. So we do everything we can to make your experience at our office one of a kind. See for yourself!