Open debridement is a treatment in which the gums are surgically opened. This gives the practitioner access to deepened periodontal pockets and inflamed tissue. Tartar and bacteria are removed under direct vision. This technique is used when non-surgical cleaning does not produce sufficient results. The procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic. After cleaning, the gums are sutured to allow healing. The aim is to reduce pocket depth and restore healthy gums. Healing takes a few weeks with good oral care. Aftercare instructions are provided to prevent reinfection. Open debridement increases the chance of keeping teeth in severe periodontitis.
Periodontology - Treatments
What does open debridement involve?
A surgical cleaning of deep periodontal pockets in advanced periodontitis.