Contemporary periodontal surgery: 2. Surgical practice

Contemporary surgical techniques emphasize gentle tissue handling with a minimum of trauma. This in turn provides a predictable operative environment and promotes healing. A modern surgical armamentarium may be very different from that encountered a decade ago. This is clear from the greater availability of dental microsurgical instruments. Whilst the complexity of microsurgery may not be routinely necessary in general dental practice, many of the principles and equipment used may make standard surgical management easier and more predictable.

A greater understanding of the evidence base behind periodontal surgery will allow us to improve flap design, closure and operative management. Also, the use of microsurgical techniques and equipment will improve the quality and outcomes of periodontal surgery in practice.