Root Surface Debridement Procedure:
Assessment:
- The process typically begins with a comprehensive examination by a dental professional to assess the extent of periodontal disease. This assessment may include visual inspection, probing of the gum pockets, and dental X-rays to evaluate bone loss.
Anesthesia:
- Before starting the procedure, local anesthesia may be administered to numb the gums and tooth roots, ensuring patient comfort during treatment.
Debridement:
- The dental professional uses specialized instruments such as scalers and curettes to remove plaque, tartar (calculus), and bacterial toxins from the surfaces of the tooth roots and within the periodontal pockets. This process, known as scaling, eliminates the source of infection and promotes healing of the gum tissues.
Root Planing:
- Following scaling, the dental professional performs root planing, which involves smoothing the rough surfaces of the tooth roots to prevent bacterial reattachment and promote gum reattachment to the tooth surface. This step helps to reduce inflammation and prevent further progression of periodontal disease.
Irrigation and Antibiotics:
- Subgingival irrigation with antimicrobial agents may be used to flush out bacteria from the periodontal pockets and promote healing. In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to control infection and reduce inflammation.
Follow-Up:
- After root surface debridement, the dental professional may schedule follow-up appointments to monitor the patient's progress and assess the response to treatment. Additional treatment or maintenance therapy may be recommended based on individual needs.