Histologic evaluation of gingival curettage facilitated by sodium hypochlorite solution

Gingival curettage has long been used as a modality in periodontal therapy. Recent longitudinal studies have shown that diligent curettage of periodontal pockets may aid in maintaining the attachment levels around periodontally involved teeth. This study was designed to histologically evaluate the controlled use of concentrated sodium hypochlorite solution to facilitate gingival curettage therapy. The results indicate that the action of sodium hypochlorite solution may be adequately controlled to provide predictable chemolysis of the soft tissue wall of a periodontal pocket with minimal effect upon the adjacent tissues. The action of the solution appears to have no detrimental effect upon healing. Reduction of inflammation prior to the procedure and careful technique are important to assure predictability. The use of gingival curettage augmented by sodium hypochlorite solution may aid in the management of patients undergoing periodontal maintenance.