Periodontal Pockets:

A periodontal pocket refers to an unusually deep gingival sulcus.

When the sulcular depth exceeds three millimeters, regular brushing cannot effectively remove debris from the area.

At this point, dental intervention is necessary in order to thoroughly clean the infected area.

If a deep gingival sulcus is not attended to, debris build-up could lead to a weakened tooth due

to loosening of the attachment fibers that hold teeth in place.

If attachment fibers have not been weakened due to a deepened sulcus,

the periodontal build-up is referred to as a gingival pocket.

A gingival pocket can be reversed by changing basic oral hygiene habits.

If the attachment fibers have been damaged as a result of a deepened gingival pocket,

then the area is referred to as a periodontal pocket.

Periodontal pockets are discovered after dental probing reveals bleeding.

Since the periodontal pocket area is extremely sensitive, the slightest amount of probing will produce inflammation and bleeding.

A periodontal pocket must be attended to immediately in order to remove any bacteria.

Removing debris and bacteria from a periodontal pocket requires a number of steps.

Dental professionals first work to remove bacteria without resorting to surgical procedures.

Deep Scaling  and debridement techniques are employed to remove as much bacteria as possible.

If removal of debris is not possible without surgery, a dental professional may opt to perform Root Planning.