How to Close a Tooth Pocket

Gum disease can cause numerous complications for dental health. Aside from the obvious -- bleeding, swelling and sore, red gums -- gingivitis can cause periodontal pockets. Gums should sit snugly against the teeth, but the destruction of tissue from disease may expose areas around the teeth, forming pockets. As these pockets deepen, they become more difficult to clean even by professional hygienists. Ridding the area of the bacteria and sealing the gums won't undo damage but can help prevent further problems.

Instructions

• 1

  See your dentist. A professional should examine the depth of the tooth pocket and determine if further work is warranted.

• 2

  Schedule an appointment for scaling and planing if the dentist recommends it. Scaling is a deep-cleaning procedure intended to remove all the bacteria from a deep pocket. Planing smooths a tooth's surface to make it more difficult for bacteria to collect.

• 3

  Discuss the potential for discomfort during the procedure before it begins. Patients with fairly deep tooth pockets may receive a local anesthetic similar to that given for a cavity. Some may only need an anesthetic gel to be applied to the periodontal pocket; others experience little pain.

• 4

  Expect to have several visits to complete the procedure. The dentist may work on just one part of the mouth at a time rather than scaling and planing all teeth at once. Even if you have just one periodontal pocket, the dentist may advise scaling the entire mouth to eliminate bacteria.

• 5

  Allow time for healing after the procedure. You may experience bleeding, sensitivity and even some pain for a time afterward. Be sure to call the office about excessive bleeding or severe pain. You may typically take ibuprofen for discomfort and may be prescribed medication or given a gel to apply to eliminate bacteria. Follow the specific advice and direction of your dentist carefully.

• 6

  Follow the good oral health procedures of brushing and flossing twice a day to prevent pockets from re-forming from gum disease.