Periodontal probe A periodontal probe is a measuring tool that is used by dentists and dental hygienists.

periodontal probe

A periodontal probe is a measuring tool that is used by dentists and dental hygienists. It measures the depth of a periodontal sulcus. The periodontal sulcus is a collar of gum tissue surrounding a tooth. The sulcus is normally two to three millimeters in depth and firmly adapts to the surface of the tooth. A small amount of sulcular fluid normally slowly oozes out of the sulcus and its full of protective proteins and antibodies. The bottom of the sulcus is normally glued to the root of the tooth.

Using a periodontal probe when a person has gingivitis gives higher depth readings. When a person has gingivitis, the gums swell and enlarge. The bottom of the sulcus is still in the same place but the sulcus appears deeper because the gum tissues are swollen. Typically these readings are in the 3 to 5 millimeter ranges with bleeding on probing.