Periodontal Pockets
Periodontal pockets are spaces that can form between the teeth and gums. A healthy mouth has very little to no space because the gum tissue is tight against the teeth. In the presence of gingivitis or gum disease, periodontal pockets grow, and the space between the gums and teeth becomes larger.
Periodontal Pockets
In the sections below, we will discuss the causes, consequences, and treatments of pockets so that you are armed with the proper information to manage your oral health.
Periodontal pocket causes
Pockets do not all share the same cause. The most common causes are listed below:
• Accumulation of plaque/tartar: Most pockets are caused by the accumulation of plaque and bacteria on the surface of the teeth and just below the gumline. If the plaque and bacteria are not removed with diligent tooth brushing and flossing, they can harden and turn into tartar (a.k.a. calculus). Plaque and tartar are different, primarily because tartar can only be removed by a dental professional. Once it has taken hold, it creates inflammation in the gum tissue, quickly becoming gingivitis (the first stage of gum disease).
• Genetics: The development of periodontal pockets is not always due to plaque and bacteria accumulation. Some people are just more likely to develop periodontal pockets than others. If you are one of these people, you must commit to excellent oral care through diligent brushing/flossing and regular periodontal cleanings.
• Diabetes: Diabetes is a known risk factor for developing periodontal pockets and gum disease.
• Tobacco: Smoking and oral tobacco are known to speed up the progression of gum problems, including periodontal pockets and gum disease.
Periodontal pocket consequences
Pockets are a threat to your oral and overall health. They collect more food particles and bacteria the larger they become. Eventually, pockets can become breeding grounds for bacteria. Over time, this bacteria can enter your bloodstream, potentially leading to heart disease, diabetes, and/or respiratory disease.
The dental consequences of periodontal pockets are no less daunting. While it can take some time to develop, periodontal pockets contribute to gum recession, gum abscesses, and, eventually, tooth loss.
Periodontal pocket treatments
The good news is that periodontal pockets can be treated, especially if detected early. We offer several interventions with a proven track record of success:
• Scaling & root planing: Scaling and root planing are also known as deep cleaning and involve the removal of tartar from the teeth and from below the gumline. Scaling removes tartar from the surface of the teeth, while root planing removes tartar from the tooth roots. This process encourages the gums to reattach to the teeth, minimizing periodontal pockets.
• Traditional periodontal surgery: In advanced cases of gum disease, traditional periodontal surgery is one of the most effective techniques. Periodontal surgery is similar to scaling and root planing in that it is designed to remove tartar and bacteria. However, is a more involved procedure that requires cutting and sewing of the gum tissue.
• LANAP laser treatment: LANAP laser treatment is a revolutionary new procedure that accomplishes similar results to traditional periodontal surgery but without the cutting and sewing of gum tissue. Instead of a scalpel and sutures, we use a specialized periodontal laser to clean the infected area. LANAP involves less pain and allows for faster recovery compared to traditional surgery.
Let’s solve your gum problems
At Sacramento Periodontics, we truly care about our patients and want to help you solve your gum problems. We work hard to ensure you fully understand your condition and treatment options. Transparent pricing is also a matter of principle for us, as we believe that you should always know the cost of your treatment before it starts.
We look forward to meeting you. Contact us today to get started.