Clinical indicators of pathogenic chronic periodontitis include which of the following?

Chronic periodontitis is characterized by the progressive loss of the supporting structures of the teeth, primarily the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone. One of the most significant clinical indicators of this condition is the presence of true periodontal pockets. These pockets are formed when the gum tissue detaches from the tooth due to the inflammatory process, leading to a deeper space between the tooth and the gums, which can be measured clinically.

The presence of true periodontal pockets is essential in diagnosing chronic periodontitis, as they indicate the extent of the disease and the level of periodontal destruction. These pockets are typically deeper than the normal sulcus measurement, which is around 1-3 mm, and can reach depths of 4 mm or more in cases of periodontitis.

While mobility of teeth and dull pain on biting can be associated with chronic periodontitis, they are not definitive indicators. Tooth mobility can occur in various conditions, including trauma or other forms of periodontal disease, and pain is subjective and may not always be present. Therefore, the most direct clinical indicator associated specifically with chronic periodontitis is indeed the presence of true pockets.