What does it mean when a dentist says you have pockets?

When gum tissue begins to separate or pull away from the teeth, it leaves a larger space between the tooth and gums where harmful bacteria can thrive. At this point the space is called a “pocket.” Inflammation is present, and the once healthy sulcus has become deeper because it is diseased.

What is the treatment of dental pocket?

Surgical pocket reduction

This may be called “flap surgery.” During this procedure, your dentist will clean the pocket carefully, removing tartar deposits after lifting up the gums to clean underneath them. The gums will then be sutured to fit more tightly around the tooth.

What does it mean when the dentist says you have deep pockets?

Deep pockets, or periodontal pockets, are when there are spaces around the gum line that have become infected. Deep pockets create a perfect environment for bacteria to grow. This can spread infection to the bone and structure around the teeth, potentially leading to gum disease or tooth loss.

Is it normal to have pockets in gums?

While the soft tissue may look as though it's connected to the teeth, there is actually a space between the smile and gum tissue. This is the periodontal pocket, and in a healthy smile, these pockets are between two and three millimeters in depth.

Can you reverse deep gum pockets?

The key thing to reversing gum disease is removing the tartar that's present on both the root of your teeth and under your gum line. Periodontitis can't be reversed, only slowed down, while gingivitis can be reversed.

What are dental pockets?

Can dental pockets be reduced?

Pocket reduction is a surgical procedure to remove harmful bacteria trapped in the space between gums and teeth. While scaling and root planing can help treat mild cases of gum disease, pocket reduction surgery is often necessary when the oral infection has reached an advanced stage.

Can you shrink gum pockets?

If you suffer from gum pockets that cannot be treated by good oral hygiene and professional cleaning, your dentist may prescribe medication like antibiotic gel. An antibiotic gel prescribed for pockets contains doxycycline. This helps to shrink gum pockets and control the growth of bacteria.

How do you reverse gum pockets?

The last, most invasive way to reverse gum disease is to have surgery. During this type of surgery the gums are cut and moved back so the tooth is exposed. This allows the dentist to fully remove the bacteria and damage. After the cleaning is completed, the dentist will then stitch the gums back around the teeth.

How long does it take for a gum pocket to heal?

The length of time it will take your gums to heal depends on the severity of your gum disease. It can take anywhere from 2 – 4 weeks, while deeper pockets can take months to completely heal. Because your mouth will be tender and inflamed, a soft food diet is advised for the first few days.

Do gums reattach after deep cleaning?

While any gum loss experienced due to gum disease will not grow back, the majority of patients can expect their gums to reattach after undergoing a deep cleaning. This is because all of the harmful bacteria has been removed, allowing the gums to once again be healthy.

What does a gum score of 3 mean?

Anything between 1 and 3 is a good indicator that your gums are healthy. However, if you bleed during the process, your gums may be in beginning stages of a more severe problem, even if your measurements are between the target of 1 and 3. Higher measurements than 3 could be a sign of a serious concern.

What do gum pocket numbers mean?

The numbers that you hear are the depths of the pockets around your teeth in millimeters. Smaller, tighter pockets usually mean healthier gums. 0-3mm without bleeding means you are in great shape. Be proud! 1-3mm with bleeding is an early sign of gingivitis.

Is gum surgery painful?

The actual gum grafting procedure is painless. This is because a local anesthetic is used to numb the affected area. A periodontist, who is a dental specialist in gum disease and the gums, typically performs this procedure. You may instead feel some movement or pressure as your periodontist performs the procedure.

How do you fix gum pockets naturally?

Will a Waterpik help with periodontal disease?

To help your oral hygiene routine at home and treat periodontal disease, using a water flosser can make a difference. Water flossers are easy to use and can reach up to 90% of your gum pocket. A water flosser can remove plaque and improve your gum health.

What mouthwash is best for periodontitis?

Is it too late to save my gums?

It's never too late to seek treatment for gum disease, and the degree of treatment you require will depend on how advanced it is.

Does hydrogen peroxide help with periodontal disease?

Classified in the United States as an oral debriding agent and an oral wound cleanser, peroxide is an effective antimicrobial for chronic oral wounds inducing periodontal disease.

Can flossing cause deep pockets?

There are many causes of pocket gaps and one of them is an improper way of flossing. As long as it is done properly, flossing will not create pocket gaps.

Does Listerine help heal gums?

While LISTERINE^® mouthwash products can help prevent early gum disease, they are not indicated to treat periodontitis. For more information about the differences between gum disease, gingivitis and periodontitis, click here.

Why are my gum pockets so deep?

The first way involves the gum swelling from irritation, causing the gum pocket to become deeper and taller. Another way is due to bone loss around the teeth, at the base of the pocket. This makes the pocket grow deeper as well.

What causes pockets in your teeth?

Ongoing gum inflammation can cause periodontitis, eventually causing pockets to develop between your gums and teeth that fill with plaque, tartar and bacteria. In time, these pockets become deeper, filling with more bacteria.

Is pocket reduction surgery painful?

You'll likely have some mild to moderate discomfort for a few days after pocket reduction surgery. However, over-the-counter painkillers and ice packs can reduce the pain and swelling. There's a risk of infection and continuous bleeding as well.

Can gingivitis cause pockets?

In general, periodontal pockets arise as gingivitis progresses to full-blown gum disease. In their early stages, good oral hygiene can prevent or lessen the impact of these pockets. However, if ignored they can eventually cause bacteria to progress from the gums to the jawbone and contribute to tooth loss.

Are you put to sleep for gum surgery?

Some dentists and periodontists offer sedation dentistry, which involves the use of general anesthesia or sedatives that allow you to sleep for the duration of your procedure. Sedation dentistry may be an ideal option for people who experience anxiety when going to the dentist, or who prefer to sleep during surgery.