Do Your Gums Have Pockets?

Posted on 6/2/2025 by Scholes Periodontics & Implants

Smiling woman sitting in a modern dental office, showcasing satisfaction with cosmetic dentistry results.

If you've ever had your teeth cleaned at the dentist, you may have heard the term "gum pockets" being thrown around. But what are gum pockets, exactly, and why are they important?

Here’s what you need to know about these little indentations between your teeth and gums, and how they affect your oral health:

What Are Gum Pockets?

Gum pockets are the spaces between your gums and teeth. These pockets are normally shallow, 1 to 3 millimeters deep, and healthy. This allows for a tight seal that protects your teeth from bacteria and infection.

However, when plaque and tartar build up along the gum line, it can irritate the gums and cause inflammation, a condition known as gingivitis. As gingivitis progresses, the gum pockets become deeper. This creates an even larger haven for bacteria, allowing them to thrive and further irritate the gums.

How Deep are Gum Pockets?

Gum pockets are measured by a dental hygienist or dentist during a routine checkup. The depth is measured using a periodontal probe, a thin instrument that fits between the gum and the tooth.

Here's how gum pockets are classified based on their depth:

•	1 to 3 millimeters: Healthy gum depth.
•	4 to 5 millimeters: Mild periodontitis.
•	6 millimeters or more: Moderate to severe periodontitis.

What Happens When Your Gums Have Pockets?

As gum pockets deepen, they become more difficult to clean. This allows even more bacteria to build up, leading to further inflammation and infection. Left untreated, this infection can damage the gums, bones, and other tissues that support your teeth. This condition is known as periodontitis, and can ultimately lead to tooth loss.

How to Prevent and Treat Gum Pockets

The good news is that gum pockets can be prevented and even treated with proper oral care. Here's what you can do:

•	Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste.
•	Floss daily to remove plaque and food debris from between your teeth.
•	Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings with your dentist.
•	If you have gum disease, follow your dentist's instructions for treatment. This may involve scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar, or medication to control the infection.

Conclusion

Gum pockets are a normal part of your oral anatomy, but if they become too deep, they can lead to gum disease and other oral health problems. By practicing good oral hygiene and visiting your dentist regularly, you can prevent and treat gum pockets and keep your smile healthy for years to come.

Scholes Periodontics & Implants in Chandler, AZ

Scholes Periodontics & Implants
Dr. Scholes
595 N Dobson Rd B#34
Chandler, AZ 85224

O: (480) 786-0940
F: (480) 786-5694

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Scholes Periodontics and Implants, 595 N Dobson Rd #34, Chandler, AZ 85224 • (480) 786-0940 • scholesperio.com • 6/21/2025 • Associated Words: Dental Implants Chandler AZ •