Probing Pocket Depth
Also written as: PPD — Probing Pocket Depth
The distance measured in millimetres from the gingival margin to the base of the sulcus or periodontal pocket using a calibrated periodontal probe.
Full Definition
Probing pocket depth (PPD) is a primary clinical outcome measure in periodontal and implant studies, recorded at multiple sites per tooth. Unlike clinical attachment level, PPD is measured from the gingival margin rather than the cementoenamel junction, making it sensitive to gingival swelling or recession. In editorial contexts, editors should verify that the number of recording sites per tooth (four, six) is stated and consistent throughout the manuscript. PPD is often reported alongside bleeding on probing as a composite indicator of periodontal inflammation. Editors should flag any inconsistency between 'probing pocket depth' and 'periodontal probing depth' if both appear in the same manuscript without definitional distinction.
Usage
Usage note: PPD must not be used interchangeably with 'clinical attachment level' (CAL); the two measures differ in reference point and clinical interpretation.
In Context
- "Mean probing pocket depth decreased from 5.2 mm at baseline to 3.1 mm at six months in the test group." — Results section of a periodontal intervention study
- "The author used 'PPD' and 'PD' interchangeably across tables; the editor standardised this to 'PPD' in accordance with the journal's style guide." — Copy-editing note