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Dentistry vocabulary · Gums and Oral Hygiene

Periodontal pocket

Meaning in dentistry, with examples

nounCommon term

In dentistry, periodontal pocket means: An abnormally deep space between the gum and the tooth root, caused by periodontitis. The healthy gap is about 1 to 3 mm deep; pockets are deeper.

In Turkish: periodontal cep, diş eti cebi

How it is used

Dentists measure pocket depths with a periodontal probe at six points around each tooth and record them on a periodontal chart. Treatment aims to reduce pocket depth. Notes read, for example, 'pockets of 6 mm on the molars'.

Example sentences

  1. There's a 7 mm periodontal pocket on the distal of the upper molar.

  2. After treatment, most periodontal pockets had reduced to 4 mm or less.

Common collocations

  • periodontal pocket
  • pocket depth
  • deep pockets
  • residual pocket
  • periodontitisA serious gum disease in which infection destroys the bone and tissues that hold the teeth. Pockets form, teeth may loosen, and lost bone does not grow back by itself.
  • probeA thin hand instrument for examining teeth and gums. A periodontal probe has millimeter marks to measure pocket depth; a sharp probe (explorer) checks surfaces and filling margins.
  • mobilityMovement of a tooth in its socket. A tiny amount is normal, but increased mobility can be a sign of bone loss, infection or injury.
  • scalingProfessional removal of plaque and tartar from the teeth, above and below the gum line, using ultrasonic and hand instruments.
  • dental hygienistA registered dental professional who cleans teeth, removes tartar and gives prevention advice and, in many countries, also takes X-rays and treats gum disease.

More terms: Gums and Oral Hygiene

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This page explains English vocabulary for learners. It is not medical advice.