Gum pockets and bone loss: pocket reduction and tissue regeneration
There is naturally a small groove between each tooth and the gum. As gum disease progresses this groove deepens into a "pocket", where plaque and tartar collect beyond the reach of a toothbrush. Periodontal treatments that reduce pocket depth and, in suitable cases, regain lost bone are among Dr. Hüseyin Aşçı's areas of interest.
What does pocket depth tell you?
Pocket depth is measured at several points around each tooth with a thin probe marked in millimetres (a periodontal probe). Whether the gum bleeds during measurement is also recorded.
| Depth | General meaning |
|---|---|
| 1–3 mm | A healthy gum groove |
| 4–5 mm | Early to moderate gum disease |
| 6 mm or more | Advanced disease, bone loss likely |
These figures are a general guide; diagnosis is made by assessing measurements, bleeding and X-rays together.
First step: deep cleaning
Treatment starts with removing tartar below the gum and smoothing the root surfaces (root planing), together with coaching on the right home care. A few weeks later the pockets are measured again; many mild and moderate pockets shrink at this stage. More: gum treatment in Beylikdüzü.
If pockets persist: surgical options
- Flap surgery: The gum is lifted so the root surfaces can be cleaned under direct vision, and pocket depth is reduced.
- Guided tissue regeneration: A membrane is placed over the area of bone loss to keep space for bone and the tissues that hold the tooth to regrow, instead of gum tissue.
- Bone graft: In suitably shaped bone defects, the space is filled with graft material to support regeneration.
The success of regenerative treatment depends on the shape of the bone loss: vertical defects with surrounding walls respond better. Not all bone loss can be regained.
Risk factors
- Smoking: speeds up the disease and reduces the response to treatment.
- Uncontrolled diabetes (dental care for people with chronic conditions).
- Family tendency and stress.
- Irregular check-ups and poor oral hygiene.
We discuss the link between gum disease and general health in "Oral health is a mirror of general health".
Care after treatment
Even after gum disease has been treated, regular follow-up is needed. Maintenance visits, usually every three to four months, repeat the pocket measurements and cleaning. Keeping to this routine makes a marked difference to how long teeth last.
Gum assessment at Dent32
At Dent32 we record gum measurements and explain the results and options in a written plan. Dent32 is at Barış Mah., Ginza Lavinya, E-5 Yanyolu No:30 D:179, 34520 Beylikdüzü, Istanbul; to book, call +90 555 011 33 68 or write to us.
Frequently asked questions
Do gum pockets close on their own?
Shallow pockets caused by mild inflammation can improve with cleaning and good home care. Deep pockets need professional treatment; they don't close on their own.
Can my loose tooth be saved?
It depends on how much bone has been lost and in what pattern. An examination and X-rays show the tooth's outlook; some teeth can be kept for many years with treatment.
Is pocket treatment painful?
Procedures are done under local anaesthetic. There may be some tenderness for a few days afterwards.
