Residual Pocket
A periodontal pocket that persists following active periodontal therapy, indicating incomplete resolution of disease.
Full Definition
A residual pocket is a periodontal pocket, typically measuring ≥4 mm with bleeding on probing, that remains after completion of active non-surgical or surgical periodontal treatment. Its presence is a key decision point in determining whether additional surgical intervention or extended maintenance is required. Editors should distinguish this term from 'pseudopocket', which results from coronal gingival enlargement rather than apical migration of the junctional epithelium. Residual pockets are frequently referenced in periodontal re-evaluation reports and maintenance documentation. Accurate use of this term is critical because it directly informs treatment planning narratives.
Usage
Usage note: Only use after active therapy has been completed; a pocket noted before treatment is simply a periodontal pocket.
In Context
- "Re-evaluation eight weeks post-debridement revealed residual pockets of 5 mm at sites 26 and 36." — Periodontal re-evaluation report
- "The case presentation erroneously labelled the inflamed sulcus a 'residual pocket' before any active therapy had been completed." — Editorial correction note