− | The depth of the sulcus can be assessed by gently inserting a graduated [[Oral Examination Instruments#Periodontal Probe|periodontal probe]] '''until resistance is encountered at the base of the sulcus'''. The depth from the free gingival margin to the base of the sulcus is measured in mm at several locations around the whole circumference of the tooth. The probe is moved gently horizontally, walking along the floor of the sulcus. The gingival sulcus is 1–3 mm deep in the dog and 0.5–1 mm in the cat. Measurements in excess of these values usually indicate periodontal disease, when the periodontal ligament has been destroyed and alveolar bone resorbed, thus allowing the probe to be inserted to a greater depth. The term used to describe this is periodontal pocketing. All sites with periodontal pocketing should be accurately recorded. Gingival inflammation resulting in swelling or hyperplasia of the free gingiva will, of course, also result in measuring sulcus depths in excess of normal values. In these situations, the term pseudopocketing is used, as the periodontal ligament and bone are intact (i.e.there is no evidence of periodontitis) and the increase in PPD is due to swelling or hyperplasia of the gingiva. | + | The depth of the sulcus can be assessed by gently inserting a graduated [[Oral Examination Instruments#Periodontal Probe|periodontal probe]] '''until resistance is encountered at the base of the sulcus'''. The depth from the free [[Gingiva|gingival margin]] to the base of the sulcus is measured in mm at several locations around the whole circumference of the [[:Category:Teeth - Anatomy & Physiology|tooth]]. The probe is moved gently horizontally, walking along the floor of the sulcus. The '''gingival sulcus is 1–3 mm deep in the dog''' and '''0.5–1 mm in the cat'''. Measurements in excess of these values usually indicate [[Periodontal Disease|periodontal disease]], when the [[Enamel Organ#Periodontal Ligament|periodontal ligament]] has been destroyed and [[Enamel Organ#Alveolar Bone|alveolar bone]] resorbed, thus allowing the probe to be inserted to a greater depth. The term used to describe this is '''periodontal pocketing'''. All sites with periodontal pocketing should be accurately recorded. Gingival inflammation resulting in swelling or hyperplasia of the free [[gingiva]] will, of course, also result in measuring sulcus depths in excess of normal values. In these situations, the term '''pseudopocketing''' is used, as the periodontal ligament and bone are intact (i.e.there is no evidence of [[periodontitis]]) and the increase in PPD is due to swelling or hyperplasia of the gingiva. |
| Gingival recession is also measured using a periodontal probe. It is the distance (in mm) from the cemento-enamel junction to the free gingival margin. At sites with gingival recession, PPD may be within normal values despite loss of alveolar bone due to periodontitis. | | Gingival recession is also measured using a periodontal probe. It is the distance (in mm) from the cemento-enamel junction to the free gingival margin. At sites with gingival recession, PPD may be within normal values despite loss of alveolar bone due to periodontitis. |