What Is It?
Debridement is the removal of excessive amounts of plaque and tartar from
What It's Used For
Debridement is done on people who have heavy plaque and tartar (calculus)
build-up, usually because they haven't visited a dentist in several years. The
plaque and tartar accumulation on the teeth is so heavy that your dentist can't
see the teeth to examine them. Before he or she can do an exam, the plaque and
tartar must be removed through debridement.
Some people who are very sensitive to pain might need local anesthesia for
this procedure. Others might require some form of sedation, such as nitrous
oxide. Often, people who avoid the dentist have some form of dental phobia,
so anesthesia or sedation may be necessary to make them comfortable.
How It's Done
Debridement is done with a combination of hand instruments and an ultrasonic
device. This device uses water and high-frequency vibrations to dislodge plaque
and tartar from the teeth.
Debridement is usually the first phase of comprehensive periodontal
treatment. After completing the debridement, your dentist will re-evaluate your
teeth to determine the appropriate course of therapy, which may involve scaling
and root planing or periodontal surgery.
If your gums are inflamed they can bleed during the procedure. In some
cases, you may notice that your teeth are sensitive to temperature (hot and/or
cold) after debridement. This occurs when the roots of the teeth are exposed
following the removal of plaque and tartar.
Infection is possible after debridement, but it is very rare.
When To Call a Professional
Call your dentist if:
- You have bleeding that doesn't
- You think the area might be
- You have excessive swelling
or discharge from the area
- Lymph nodes beneath your
lower jaw or in your neck become swollen
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