Which factors may lead to false readings in PSR?

• A. Proper probing technique and calibrated examiners.
• B. Regular calibration of examiners and standardized measurement sites.
• C. Improper probing technique, excessive probe pressure, tissue inflammation, calculus or defective margins, and inconsistent measurement sites.
• D. Use of a star in recording PSR results.

Answer: (C)

Understanding PSR readings hinges on how the probe interacts with the tissues and how consistently the measurement is taken. False readings occur when technique and tissue conditions distort the true pocket depth. If probing technique is improper, the probe may not reach the bottom of the sulcus or may be angled incorrectly, giving depths that don’t reflect reality. Using too much probe pressure can squeeze the tissues, altering the sulcus depth and potentially producing misleading results. Tissue inflammation adds swelling and edema, widening the sulcus and creating pseudopockets that appear deeper than they really are. Calculus or defective margins interfere with the probe’s contact with the sulcus floor, causing irregular or inaccurate depths. Measuring at inconsistent sites means you might miss the deepest pocket or vary readings from visit to visit, undermining reliability. The star notation in PSR recording is simply an annotation for referral or additional evaluation and does not cause measurement error, so it doesn’t contribute to false readings.