Related Experiment Videos
Total calculus removal: an attainable objective?
T J Kepic1, T J O'Leary, A H Kafrawy
1Department of Periodontics, Indiana University School of Dentistry, Indianapolis.
Journal of Periodontology
|January 1, 1990
Summary
Complete calculus removal from periodontally diseased root surfaces is rare, even after two sessions of scaling and root planing. Both ultrasonic and hand instrumentation left residual calculus on most teeth.
Area of Science:
- Periodontology
- Microbiology
- Dental Materials Science
Background:
- Severe periodontal disease necessitates thorough calculus removal.
- Current instrumentation techniques aim for complete root debridement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of closed and open scaling and root planing in completely removing calculus.
- To compare ultrasonic versus hand instrumentation for calculus removal.
Main Methods:
- Two sessions of scaling and root planing (closed and open approaches) were performed on periodontally diseased teeth.
- Teeth were treated with either ultrasonic or hand instruments.
- Microscopic evaluation (light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy) was used to assess residual calculus and cementum removal.
Main Results:
- Calculus was retained on most teeth treated with both ultrasonic (12/14) and hand instruments (12/17).
- Neither instrument type completely removed calculus from all root surfaces, including furcations.
- Scanning electron microscopy revealed residual calculus even in specimens that appeared clean under light microscopy.
Conclusions:
- Complete calculus removal from periodontally diseased root surfaces is challenging and rarely achieved.
- Both closed and open scaling and root planing, using ultrasonic or hand instruments, demonstrate limitations in complete calculus debridement.