Periodontal Probing Depth
The measured distance from the gingival margin to the base of the periodontal pocket, recorded in millimetres using a calibrated probe.
Full Definition
Periodontal probing depth (PPD) is a primary clinical metric in dental research used to assess the severity of periodontal disease. It is measured by inserting a calibrated periodontal probe into the sulcus or pocket at multiple sites around each tooth. Values above 3 mm are generally considered clinically significant. In research manuscripts, PPD data are typically reported as mean values per site, per tooth, or per subject. Editors should ensure consistent unit notation (mm) and that measurement sites (e.g., mesiobuccal, distolingual) are clearly defined in the methods section.
Usage
Usage note: Do not abbreviate as 'PD' without first defining 'PPD' in full; 'PD' is ambiguous in dental research contexts. Distinguish from clinical attachment level (CAL), which accounts for gingival recession.
In Context
- "Mean periodontal probing depth decreased significantly from 5.2 mm at baseline to 2.8 mm at the six-month follow-up (p < 0.001)." — Clinical trial results section
- "Periodontal probing depth was recorded at six sites per tooth by a single calibrated examiner." — Materials and methods section