What technique is used to eliminate periodontal pockets?

Gingivectomy is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess gum tissue to help eliminate periodontal pockets, which are spaces that can form between the teeth and gums due to periodontal disease. This technique can be particularly beneficial in cases where pockets have formed around teeth due to inflammation and disease, resulting in the need to reduce the depth of these pockets for better oral hygiene and overall dental health.

By excising the affected tissue, gingivectomy allows for improved access to the tooth roots and surrounding structures, facilitating better cleaning and promoting healing. This approach can also enhance the aesthetics of the gum line and contribute to the restoration of periodontal health.

In contrast, scaling, flap surgery, and root planing play different roles in periodontal therapy. Scaling involves removing plaque and calculus from the tooth surfaces, while root planing smooths the tooth roots to help remove bacteria and promote healing. Flap surgery is a more invasive technique that involves lifting the gums away from the teeth to provide access for thorough cleaning and may involve other types of surgical intervention. However, it is the gingivectomy that specifically addresses the removal of the excess gum tissue that leads to the formation of periodontal pockets.