As part of the record keeping, the hygienist and/or the dentist take measurements of the depths of the gums surrounding the teeth. One to 3 mm is a normal range, 5 is considered a problem, reflecting bone loss associated with gum disease. With proper hygiene, both at home(brushing and flossing) and professional cleanings( sometimes as often as every 3 months), the hope is that deep pocket numbers will heal to at least a 4mm or preferable 3mm range.