Why is probing depth significant in periodontal assessment?

Probing depth is a crucial measurement in periodontal assessment because it provides insight into the severity of periodontal disease. Increased probing depths often indicate attachment loss around the tooth, which is a hallmark of periodontitis. This assessment helps clinicians differentiate between healthy periodontal tissues and those affected by disease, guiding treatment decisions and prognoses. By measuring how deep a periodontal probe can go into the sulcus or pocket around a tooth, clinicians can evaluate the extent of tissue destruction and the need for therapeutic interventions aimed at controlling the disease and promoting periodontal health.

In contrast, probing depth does not indicate cavity presence, measure tooth mobility, or directly evaluate plaque levels, as these factors are assessed through different means in clinical practice.