What factor is NOT part of the criteria for selecting surgical techniques for pocket therapy?

The selection of surgical techniques for pocket therapy is primarily guided by clinical factors that directly influence the success of periodontal treatment. Criteria such as overall case diagnosis assess the nature and severity of periodontal disease, helping to determine the most effective surgical approach. Age and general health of the patient are crucial as they can affect healing and the patient's ability to undergo surgery. Additionally, the response to Phase I therapy reveals how well the patient has responded to initial non-surgical treatment, which helps in determining the necessity and type of surgical intervention.

In this context, the patient's income level does not directly impact the clinical decision-making regarding surgical techniques. While it may play a role in treatment accessibility or the ability to afford certain procedures, it does not influence the clinical appropriateness or efficacy of the surgical options available for treating periodontal pockets. Thus, it is not considered a fundamental criterion in the selection process for surgical techniques.