Lecture 2: Practical aspects of periodontal instrumentation
Periodontal instrumentation is the cornerstone of periodontal therapy. Yet, practitioners are often unsure exactly what they should do when they are treating patients. For example, is root planing the treatment of choice, and what about gingival curettage? What is the difference between root planing and root surface debridement (RSD)? In this presentation, the rationale for periodontal instrumentation will be considered, including the scientific evidence to support best practice. Current concepts of periodontal management suggest that ultrasonic instrumentation should be the mainstay of non-surgical management, with regular, repeated episodes of instrumentation using a technique best described as ‘multiple light strokes’. The use of manual and powered instruments will be covered, and the concept of full mouth disinfection will also be considered as a viable treatment strategy for effective management of periodontal disease.
