If you have recently met with your dentist after some time, then the professional may have informed you of some issues with your gums. Specifically, you may have learned that deep gum pockets sit next to the teeth. These gum pockets can cause some health issues. Keep reading to learn about the pockets, why they form, and how you can reduce their size.

What Are Gum Pockets?

Gum pockets are the small spaces on the sides of the teeth. These pockets form between the supportive tissues and the base of the dental root and open up to reveal a bigger part of the tooth. The opening occurs over time as the tissue around each tooth becomes infected by bacteria. The buildup of plaque and tartar at the tooth base and the increasing numbers of microorganisms in the mouth contribute to deeper gum pockets.

Over time, the bacteria can reach into the pockets and start destroying the underlying bone. Sometimes the periodontal ligaments will pull away from the teeth, and they will start to loosen. This typically occurs in extreme cases, and the teeth may need to be extracted

How Are Gum Pockets Treated?

The best way to reduce gum pocket issues and the possible loss of the teeth is to invest in dental cleanings at least twice a year. This keeps inflammation at bay and keeps the pockets a smaller size. Unfortunately, if you have already developed some larger gum pockets, then you will need treatment to keep them from growing larger. 

Treatments will begin with the measuring of the gum pockets. If the pockets are quite deep, according to the dental measuring tool, then a deep scaling will be performed. In many cases, something called a planing will be completed too where the deeper parts of the dental roots are smoothed down. This helps to reduce the number of spaces that are present and able to collect bacteria. 

Once the scaling and planing are completed, at home treatment with pinpointed cleaning is vital. You may be asked to purchase several dental tools to help with this that include a water flosser. Water flossers force water into the gum pockets and force out the debris and bacteria that can cause the openings to widen. Keep in mind that the Flosser may produce some discomfort at first. The water will force against the tooth root and produce some pain. This discomfort will reduce over time though as the gum pockets start tightening around the teeth. 

Contact a company like Carpenter Dental for more information and assistance. 

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