What is a common sign of successful periodontal therapy?

A decrease in probing depth is a common and significant sign of successful periodontal therapy. Probing depths are measured using a periodontal probe to assess the health of the supporting structures of the teeth. In healthy periodontal tissues, probing depths typically range from 1 to 3 millimeters, while deeper measurements often indicate the presence of periodontal disease.

When periodontal therapy, such as scaling and root planing or surgical intervention, is effective, it leads to the reduction of inflammation and infection in the gums. This, in turn, allows the periodontal tissues to heal and tighten around the tooth roots. As a result, probing depths are expected to decrease, reflecting an improvement in periodontal health and a reduction in disease severity.

Effective treatment may also result in improved overall periodontal stability and better oral hygiene, which contribute to maintaining this improved condition over time. Other signs of successful therapy might include reduced inflammation and bleeding on probing, but the decrease in probing depth is a clear, measurable indicator of progress.