Depth of periodontal probe penetration related to clinical and histologic signs of gingival inflammation.

The purpose of this study was to determine if the depth of periodontal probe penetration into the gingival sulcus was related to bleeding after probing with a standardized force, visual signs of gingival inflammation, and histological parameters of gingival inflammation. Sixty midfacial gingival sites in 26 persons were evaluated for presence or absence of visible inflammation and bleeding after probing using a controlled insertion pressure of 25 gm. In order to delineate the area for histologic analysis, a reference incision was made on the facial surface of the gingiva which corresponded to the depth and mesio-distal extent of the area probed and evaluated for visual signs of inflammation. Gingival biopsy specimens were histometrically analyzed to determine the depth of probe penetration and percentage of inflamed connective tissue. Statistical analysis of the data demonstrated that probe penetration was significantly greater in the presence of visible inflammation, but not with bleeding after probing. Furthermore, only a weak correlation existed between depth of probe penetration and percentage of inflamed connective tissue adjacent to the area probed.