Pockets are great, (especially on dresses!). But what about in your gums? If you’ve ever been told your periodontal pockets are too deep, this can be extremely dangerous for your oral health. Here’s what it means, and what you can do to fix it!
What are Periodontal Pockets, anyway?
Periodontal pockets are caused by tissue erosion from gum disease which can widen and deepen the gaps around your teeth. These little openings can accumulate bacteria, causing damage to your jawbone where the teeth are anchored.
Your dental team measures these periodontal pockets in millimeters, which is approximately the width of a credit card. Here is a closer look at the risks of specific depths of periodontal pockets:
- 1 to 3 mm: normal / healthy
- 4 to 5 mm: early or mild periodontitis/ gum disease
- 5 to 7 mm: moderate periodontitis
- 7 to 12 mm: advanced periodontitis
How Do I Get Rid of Periodontal Pockets?
If you have deep periodontal pockets, it is important to get rid of them to protect your teeth and gums from further damage. A treatment known as scaling and root planing is a common procedure that not only removes the built-up plaque from your teeth both above and below the surface of the gums but also smooths the tooth roots so the gum tissue can reattach and close the pockets.
Laser periodontal therapy can also be used to remove any gum tissue that has been damaged by gum disease so new, healthy tissue can grow back in its place. Both treatments depend on the severity of your periodontal disease and how much damage has been done to your gums. Your dentist can discuss your treatment options with you as well as prescribe products that will help keep your mouth free of infection going forward.
How Do I Prevent Periodontal Pockets from Forming?
The good news is that small periodontal pockets are normal; however, to prevent them from deepening, consider doing the following:
- Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Floss daily.
- Avoid dangerous oral habits like smoking.
- If you have been diagnosed with periodontal disease, you may be advised to visit your dentist more frequently, such as every three or four months instead of every six months. Be sure to attend these appointments as scheduled, as they can be extremely helpful in keeping your mouth clean and healthy and preserving your teeth and gums.
Remember, periodontal pockets should not be any deeper than 3mm. If you notice any deepening pockets, receding gums, or sensitivity or bleeding when you brush or floss, reach out to your dentist to be evaluated for gum disease. With proper care, it is possible to restore your oral health and protect your smile from periodontal disease.
About Dr. Omrani
Dr. Ben Omrani became a dentist to help people and provide the one-on-one attention necessary to give them a smile to be proud of. Today, he’s happy to use his vast knowledge to help treat a variety of oral health conditions including periodontal disease. If you are concerned about the condition of your teeth and gums, don’t wait for matters to get worse. Schedule an appointment with Platinum Dental Group today by visiting our website or calling us at 949-661-2052.