What probing depth is noted for stage I periodontitis?

In the classification of periodontal diseases, stage I periodontitis is characterized by mild inflammatory changes and minimal attachment loss. The probing depth associated with stage I periodontitis is typically measured as less than 4 mm. This depth indicates that the disease is in its early stages, where there is an initial loss of connective tissue attachment, but it is not severe.

Probing depths of 4 mm to 6 mm would indicate a more advanced level of periodontal disease, as such measurements suggest a greater degree of attachment loss and deeper periodontal pockets. Similarly, probing depths greater than 6 mm are indicative of more advanced stages of periodontitis, typically aligning with stage II or higher, where significant periodontal destruction is ongoing. Probing depths of only 1 mm would not reflect any attachment loss and generally apply to healthy periodontal conditions rather than any stage of periodontitis.

Thus, understanding the relationship between probing depth and the stages of periodontitis is essential for diagnosis and treatment planning in periodontal therapy.