Which structure should be assessed before selecting a pocket therapy?

Assessing the underlying bone is crucial before selecting pocket therapy because the condition and quality of the bone can significantly influence treatment decisions and outcomes. The presence of adequate bone support is necessary for the success of various periodontal therapies, including surgical interventions and regenerative procedures. If the underlying bone is compromised, it may affect the choice and type of therapy, such as whether to perform osseous surgery or to consider regenerative approaches.

In periodontal procedures, the bone's architecture and attachment levels inform the clinician about the disease's severity and potential healing capabilities. Understanding the bone structure helps determine the prognosis for tooth retention and the expected attachment gains after treatment.

While the patient's medical history, cleaning history, and gingival recession depth are all valuable factors in the comprehensive assessment of periodontal health, they do not specifically inform the choice of pocket therapy in the same direct way that the status of the underlying bone does. Such considerations may influence overall care but are secondary to understanding the foundational support structures critical to successful outcomes in periodontal therapy.