Healthy gums are supposed to fit snugly around the teeth and help protect the roots and supporting bone underneath. When gum disease develops, this tissue starts to pull away from the teeth and forms spaces known as deep gum pockets. These pockets allow bacteria, plaque, and debris to collect below the gumline, making infection easier to develop. If you have deep gum pockets, you need gum disease treatment.
What’s the Beginning of Gum Disease?
Deep gum pockets are often a sign that gum disease has progressed beyond the first stages. These early stages may seem like nothing and could be uncomfortable only occasionally. The beginning of gum disease looks like this:
- Red or bleeding gums
- Gums that are tender
- Gums that have appeared to recede from the tooth
If left untreated, these early stages of gum disease can quickly progress to periodontal disease, leading to loose or shifting teeth and, eventually, tooth loss.
How to Get Rid of Deep Pockets in My Gums?
Patients often ask how to shrink gum pockets, but successful treatment depends on addressing the infection beneath the gums and maintaining good oral hygiene. Deep gum pocket treatment depends on how advanced your gum disease is. In a lot of cases, scaling and root planing is the first step to eliminate bacteria and plaque from beneath the gums. This also helps smooth the tooth roots to help the gum tissue heal and reattach. You have to maintain excellent oral hygiene at home during this recovery process.
For more advanced cases, you may need additional periodontal treatments that focus on reducing pocket depth while supporting underlying bone. Sometimes localized medication or laser treatment is necessary.
What’s a Healthy Periodontal Pocket Depth?
A healthy periodontal pocket depth is typically between 1 and 3 mm. If you’re wondering how to reduce gum pocket depth, professional periodontal treatment and consistent home care are usually necessary. A pocket deeper than 4mm can signal early gum disease. Preventing deep gum pockets starts with consistent dental care and attention to early symptoms. You can only reduce gum pocket depth with the help of your periodontist.
An Ounce of Prevention
Addressing contributing factors to gum disease makes a big difference in your gum health over time. Deep gum pockets are not something that improves on its own, but with early care and proper maintenance, you can manage gum disease successfully and keep as many of your natural teeth as possible.
Schedule your appointment today with Dr. Brad Crump if you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity or any signs of early gum disease.
