Periodontal pockets- These are the spaces surrounding the teeth under the gums. These pockets can become filled with infection-causing bacteria or pus if treatment not commenced at right time.
Pockets are a symptoms of periodontitis ( a gum disease) which is a serious oral infection.
It can be treated and reversed with good oral hygiene or dental treatment.
If left untreated, periodontal pockets can lead to severe symptoms related to teeth and in return may loss affected tooth.
Periodontal pockets are –
Teeth are normally held firmly in their sockets by tissues of gums and bone.
When you have the gum disease, erosion of tissue can occur, causing spaces or gaps known as periodontal pockets . These pockets can capture and harbour bacteria, causing damage to the bones of jaw , where teeth are anchored into the sockets.
Pockets are measured in millimeters (mm).
Not all the pockets are considered harmful.
Size and severity of periodontal pockets
1 to 3 mm: normal
4 to 5 mm: early or mild periodontitis disease of the gum is present
5 to 7 mm: moderate periodontitis
7 to 12 mm: advanced periodontitis
The pockets starts with gingivitis, a gum infection caused by accumulatiom of plaque in the mouth.
Plaque is a sticky film composed of bacteria and food debris that form on teeth while having food and their improper cleaning.
This film can be removed by brushing and flossing. When it’s not removed properly the plaque occurs which further leads to
Inflammation
Infection
Advancement of gum disease
Dental calculus
When gingivitis is left unnoticed, it turns into periodontal disease, which has several stages of severity.
Risk factors for periodontal pockets :
If you don’t floss and brush at least twice daily, you increase your risk of accumulation of plaque which leads to periodontal disease significantly.
This may occur especially if you eat a high-sugar diet.
Sugary foods and drinks can accelerate tooth decay and gingivitis.
Other risk factors include:
1.Smoking or chewing tobacco
2.Medications that cause dry mouth
3.Hormonal changes associated with pregnancy and menopause
4.Insulin resistance associated with obesity or with being obese
5.Stress
6.Aging
7.Diabetes
8.Cardiovascular disease
9.Vitamin C deficiency
10.Genetics and heredity
11.Cancer treatments that deplete the immune system
12.leukemia
13.HIV infection and AIDS
14.Crohn’s disease
15.Rheumatoid arthritis
How are periodontal pockets treated–
Your treatment will be carried out by the size and depth of the periodontal pocket and the condition of your gums and bone.
Cleaning by professionals Small pockets may be reduced in size with professional dental cleanings along with home oral hygiene habits.
Your dentist will recommend you to brush and floss daily at least twice. You may also be prescribed with an antibacterial mouthwash.
These practices will help to remove plaque and around teeth, thus reducing gum inflammation.
Scaling and root planning
This non-surgical procedure is done with laser or ultrasonic device and with Hand instruments, like curettes and scalers.
Pocket reduction surgery
If you have a deep pocket or extensive bone loss but the tooth may still be saved, your dentist may recommend this procedure
How to prevent periodontal pockets –
Brush at least twice daily with a soft-bristle brush
Use a fluoridated toothpaste.
Use a mouthwash
Floss regularly to remove bacteria and food particles accumulated in between teeth.
Stop tobacco use.
Eliminate sugary diet and drinks
If you eat candy, drink soda, or any other sugary substances, always brush afterwards.
Avoid junk food and eat a healthy diet
See your dentist at regular interval (around 6 months)
Complications from periodontal pockets :
Periodontal pockets contain bacteria. if left untreated, this can continue to grow. Complications may include:
Red and swollen gums that contain pus
Pain while chewing and biting
loosening of teeth
Severe bad breath that doesn’t go away with normal cleaning
Recession of gums
Bone loss
Tooth loss
Visit us at bestorthodontistbracespune.in to know more.