Root cleaning or root smoothing. An in vivo study
The investigators sought to determine whether better clinical results in terms of pocket probing depth reduction and postsurgical attachment gain would be achieved with clean and smooth root surfaces as opposed to clean but rough surfaces. Thirteen patients, ages 29-53, with moderate periodontitis had surgery on one arch from canine to premolar, with contralateral side as control. Sulcular flaps were raised, and treatment with scaling and root planing was accomplished. On the test sites the teeth were roughed with a rotating diamond stone.
The data from the bleeding and hygiene index showed patient oral hygiene improved dramatically after motivation and instruction in home care techniques. The high level of oral hygiene by the patients was maintained throughout the study period. No differences in oral hygiene were even detected between test and control teeth. Attachment gain and probing depth showed no differences between the groups. What was noted was probing depths that were deeper initially had greater improved results over shallower pockets in both groups.
It was concluded that the configuration of the root surface, given that it is free of plaque and calculus, plays an insignificant role in the healing in periodontal surgeries. [D.H.]
Oberholzer, R., and K. Rateitschak, J Clin Periodont, 23:326, 1996