What is dental debridement?
Debridement is a procedure to remove thick or dense deposits from the tooth. This deposits are usually from a build up of plaque and tartar, which is likely to occur if you do not visit a dentist in a long time. The procedure is necessary as a dentist can neither detect decay, infection nor gum diseases with the thick deposits.
During debridement, a local anesthesia is applied. The tooth is then cleaned with either a hand instrument or ultrasonic device. The process involves the use of water and high frequency vibrations to dislodge the plaque and tartar from your teeth.
The process will only take a single visit, but the duration will differ. Some people might however require further treatment. Debridement is normally a preliminary treatment of periodontal treatment.
Debridement risks
As with other medical procedures, dental debridement has its own risks. This however will not necessarily apply to everyone as every individual is unique. The risks include but are not limited to:
- Bleeding gums.
- Swelling and numbness of the gums.
- Sensitivity to hot and cold.
- Pain.
- Headache.
- Post surgical infection.
- TMJ joint pain.
- Gum tissue shrinkage.
You should consult your dentist if you develop any of this after surgery complications. Only a dentist can prescribe a debridement for you. If prescribed, you should discuss with them about what it will entail and the potential risks involved. Finally, it is important to have a regular dental appointment for your oral health.
