A periodontal pocket is the space between the gum and the tooth that deepens as bacteria accumulate, worsening periodontal disease.
In its first stage, periodontal disease is known as gingivitis, which is characterized by inflammation of the gum tissue caused by tartar buildup and is easy to treat.
When tartar has been present for a long time, the gum separates from the tooth, forming a periodontal pocket. This pocket becomes wider and deeper, causing the gradual loss of the bone that supports the tooth. At this stage it is no longer called gingivitis and evolves into periodontitis.
A periodontal pocket can cause tooth mobility and even tooth loss. The progression of periodontitis is generally painless; discomfort often appears in its later stages. For this reason, it is important to treat periodontal disease in its early stages.
Treatment for periodontal pockets
The most effective treatment for periodontal pockets is professional dental cleaning and scaling and root planing (curettage) performed by a periodontist. The goal is to remove bacterial colonies of plaque and tartar that have accumulated beneath the gumline.
Curettage is always performed under local anesthesia to thoroughly clean the periodontal pockets without causing pain and/or discomfort to the patient. Depending on how the periodontal disease progresses, more frequent curettage may be necessary to debride the periodontal pockets and keep the gums as healthy as possible.
Controlling periodontal disease largely depends on the patient’s participation and commitment: attending regular follow-up visits with the periodontist and, above all, maintaining optimal oral hygiene at home.
This informational post explains what periodontal pockets are and how they are treated with cleanings and curettage. It is important to know that these procedures must be performed by a periodontist to be effective. The content is general; to receive an accurate diagnosis and the right treatment, a professional evaluation is essential.
For a professional exam and diagnosis of periodontal pockets, schedule a consultation. Contact us via WhatsApp, phone call, or through our form.
