What Is a Periodontal Pocket?
A periodontal pocket is a space or gap between the tooth and gum that forms because of gum disease. Bacteria collect and stick to the tooth and gum area. This collection of bacteria forms sticks to the tooth forming what is called a biofilm or bacterial plaque. The plaque of bacteria or biofilm will result in a painless gum infection, if not removed. This infection is called gingivitis is the bone has not been destroyed or periodontitis is there has bone destruction or bone loss around the area that supports and holds the tooth in the mouth. The bone melts away or resorbs but the gum will sometimes stay in its original position. This causes a gap or pocket between the tooth and gum. If left untreated, bacteria continue to collect and destroy more bone without you knowing it. If it is treated with periodontal flap surgery, the pockets are reduced so bacteria can be removed. Gums stay healthy and bone around the tooth is not destroyed, if the area is kept clean every day.
