The tissue response to oral hygiene after periodontal treatment is best assessed by which of the following?

The best way to assess tissue response to oral hygiene after periodontal treatment is by observing the decrease in the tendency to bleed on probing. Bleeding on probing is an indicator of inflammation in the periodontal tissues. When patients adhere to improved oral hygiene practices following treatment, the inflammation typically subsides, leading to reduced bleeding. Evaluation of this response is crucial because it reflects the healing and stabilization of the periodontal tissues.

While gum sensitivity may change for various reasons, it does not provide a direct measure of tissue health or response to hygiene practices. Improvements in gum color can indicate better health, but they are more subjective and may not directly correlate with oral hygiene compliance. Reduction in periodontal pocket depth is certainly important in a comprehensive assessment of periodontal health; however, it may not solely reflect oral hygiene efforts as it can be influenced by multiple factors, including the type of treatment provided or underlying health conditions. Thus, measuring bleeding on probing offers a more immediate and reliable evaluation of the soft tissue response to oral hygiene post-treatment.