This measurement quantifies the extent of periodontal tissue destruction. It represents the distance from the cementoenamel junction (CEJ) to the base of the periodontal pocket or sulcus. For instance, if the probing depth is 4mm and the distance from the CEJ to the gingival margin is 2mm, with the gingival margin located apical to the CEJ, the tissue destruction measurement would be 6mm (4mm + 2mm). If the gingival margin is coronal to the CEJ, the distance from the CEJ to the gingival margin must be subtracted from the probing depth.
Accurate determination of periodontal breakdown is critical for diagnosis, treatment planning, and monitoring disease progression. These measurements provide a more reliable indication of true periodontal support loss than probing depth alone, as probing depth can be influenced by factors such as inflammation and gingival recession. Longitudinal assessment of this measurement is essential in evaluating the effectiveness of periodontal therapy and identifying individuals at risk for further periodontal breakdown. Historically, this has been a cornerstone in periodontal charting and risk assessment.
