For a tooth that is experiencing pocket inflammation, what is the expected outcome after thorough cleaning?

The outcome of a thorough cleaning for a tooth experiencing pocket inflammation is associated with a reduction in probing depth. This is due to the removal of biofilm, calculus, and inflammatory mediators from the periodontal tissues, which helps to decrease inflammation and allows the tissues to heal.

When cleaning is performed effectively, the healthy reattachment of periodontal tissues can occur, leading to a reduction in the depth of the periodontal pockets that had formed due to inflammation. This improvement reflects a positive response to periodontal therapy, demonstrating that the non-surgical approach can effectively manage periodontal disease by restoring better health to the gums and supporting structures around the tooth.

Other options reflect potential negative outcomes or a lack of improvement, which are generally not expected after appropriate periodontal cleaning procedures. Pain and discomfort may be more pronounced in the short term due to the inflammation, but a properly conducted cleaning should ultimately lead to relief rather than increased suffering. The condition generally does not remain unchanged, as the purpose of treatment is to improve the situation.