Subgingival Curettages is a dental procedure used to remove calculus and plaque from below the gum line. The word "subgingival" is pronounced /sʌbˈdʒɪŋɡɪvəl/ and refers to the area under the gum line. "Curettage" is pronounced /kjʊˈrɛtɪdʒ/ and refers to the process of scraping or cleaning an area. The word is spelled with a double "t" and "a" instead of "e" because it derives from the French word "curette." Proper spelling is crucial in the dental industry to ensure clear communication between professionals.
Subgingival curettage is a dental procedure performed by dental professionals to remove plaque and calculus (tartar) that has accumulated below the gum line. It is commonly used as a treatment for periodontal disease, a condition that affects the supporting structures of the teeth, including the gum tissue and bone.
During subgingival curettage, the dentist or dental hygienist uses a small handheld instrument called a curette to carefully scrape and clean the tooth roots and the pockets of the gum tissue surrounding them. The goal is to remove all traces of bacteria, plaque, and calculus that cannot be reached through routine brushing and flossing.
The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia to ensure the patient's comfort. The dental professional will also use a dental scaler to remove any plaque and calculus above the gum line before beginning the subgingival curettage.
Subgingival curettages play a crucial role in the management of periodontal disease, as they help eliminate the bacteria and irritants causing the inflammation and progressive breakdown of the gum tissue and bone. By thoroughly cleaning the tooth roots and gum pockets, it aids in halting the disease's progression and promoting gum tissue healing and reattachment.
Post-treatment, patients are usually prescribed oral hygiene instructions, including regular brushing, flossing, and mouth rinse usage. Follow-up appointments are recommended to monitor the healing process and maintain oral health.
The word "subgingival" is derived from the Latin root "sub-", meaning "under" or "below", and the Latin word "gingiva", meaning "gums". Therefore, "subgingival" refers to anything that is located or occurs below the gums.
The term "curettage" has its origins in the Latin word "curetta", meaning "scraper" or "scoop". When combined with the suffix "-age", which denotes an action or process, it forms the word "curettage" in English. Curettage refers to the act of scraping or removing tissue, specifically in medical or dental contexts.
Putting it all together, "subgingival curettage" refers to a dental procedure in which the gums are cleaned below the gum line, typically involving the removal of diseased tissue or debris.