The objective of periodontal debridement is to remove etiologic agents which cause inflammation to the gingival (gum) tissue and surrounding bone. Common etiologic agents removed by this conventional periodontal therapy include dental plaque and tartar (calculus). These non-surgical procedures, completely cleanse the periodontium, work very effectively for individuals suffering from gingivitis (mild gum inflammation) and moderate to severe periodontal disease.

Periodontal debridement can be used both as a preventative measure for patients with gingivitis and act therapeutically for a patient who suffer from periodontitis.

These procedures are performed as a preventative measure for a periodontitis sufferer.

Listed below are some reasons why these dental procedures may be necessary:

The oral bacteria which cause periodontal infections can travel via the bloodstream to other parts of the body.

Research has shown that systemic conditions have been linked to periodontal bacteria.

Periodontal debridement removes bacteria and halts periodontal disease from progressing, thus preventing the bacteria from traveling to other parts of the body.

When gum pockets exceed 3mm in depth, there is a greater risk of periodontal disease.

As pockets deepen, they tend to house more colonies of dangerous bacteria.

Eventually, a chronic inflammatory response by the body begins to destroy gingival and bone tissue which may lead to tooth loss.

Periodontal disease is the number one cause of tooth loss in the developed world.

Periodontal debridement help remove tartar and plaque from the teeth and below the gumline.

As a bonus to treatment, if superficial stains are present on the teeth, they will be removed in the process of the Periodontal debridement procedure.

One of the most common signs of periodontal disease is halitosis (bad breath).

Food particles and bacteria can cause a persistent bad odor in the oral cavity which is alleviated with cleaning procedures such as Periodontal debridement.

Periodontal debridement treatments (debridement) are only performed after a thorough examination of the mouth.

The dentist and hygienists will take X-rays, conduct visual examinations, and make a diagnosis before recommending or beginning these procedures.

Depending on the current condition of the gums, the amount of calculus (tartar) present, the depth of the pockets and the progression of the periodontitis, local anesthetic may be used.

Scaling: This procedure is usually performed with special dental instruments and may include an ultrasonic scaling tool.

The scaling tool removes calculus and plaque from the surface of the crown and root surfaces.

In many cases, the scaling tool includes an irrigation process that can also be used to deliver an antimicrobial agent below the gums that can help reduce oral bacteria.

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Following these deep cleaning procedures, the gum pockets may be treated with antibiotics.

This will soothe irritation and help the gum tissues to heal quickly.

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During your next appointment, the dentist or hygienist at Bathurst College Dentistry will thoroughly examine the gums again to see how well the pockets have healed. If the gum pockets still measure more than 3mm in depth, additional and more intensive treatments may be recommended. Call: 416 925–0154. Email: info@bcddental.com to book an appointment today.