A deep opening between a tooth and the gum tissue that surrounds it. Gingival pockets are caused by the toxin-producing bacteria in plaque, which also contains a mix of saliva and food deposits. If plaque remains on the surface of a tooth too long, the toxins released by the bacteria in the plaque destroy the fibers that anchor the tooth to the gum. When the fibers are destroyed, an opening, or pocket, is created in the area where the tooth is normally attached to the gum. As the pockets extend deeper, they can erode the underlying bone that surrounds and supports the tooth. The tooth may be loosened and eventually fall out. Gingival pockets are an indicator of periodontal disease.